How to Write Artwork Description Cards That Actually Connect

Artwork description cards might seem like a small detail, but over the years, I've found they can completely shift how someone connects with your work. Whether you're showing your art at a gallery, selling pieces at a local market, or simply want to appear more polished in your online shop, these little cards do a lot of heavy lifting. They communicate what your piece is about, share important details like medium and size, and sometimes help close a sale.

I didn’t realize how powerful they were until I started doing local shows and people would walk up to a piece, read the card, and then start telling me how they felt about it. That’s when I knew they were doing their job. A good description card acts like a quiet spokesperson for your work. It gives viewers something to hold on to—especially when you’re not standing there to explain it yourself. And even when I am standing right there, it’s amazing how many people read the card first before saying a word to me. It gives them context, something to anchor their experience of the piece.

If you’re anything like me, writing about your work might feel awkward at first. But it gets easier with time. The trick is to keep it honest and simple. You’re not trying to sound like an art historian or a gallery curator—you’re just offering a little window into your process or intention.

Key Points

• Focus on clarity over cleverness. Use simple, direct language that helps the viewer understand the story or concept behind your piece.
• Always include key details: title, medium, size, and year. These are practical but also add a sense of professionalism.
• Match the tone and look of your card to the vibe of your art. A polished digital illustration might call for a clean design, while a rough charcoal sketch could have a more handmade feel.

What Are Artwork Description Cards?

Artwork description cards are small placards or printed cards placed next to your artwork in a physical or digital setting. They usually include the title of the piece, your name, the medium, dimensions, year created, and a short description. But they can also be more personal or narrative, depending on where and how you're displaying your art.

Early on, I used to skip them because I didn’t want to come off as too polished or salesy. But once I started creating these cards, I noticed people spent more time with my work. Even if they didn’t buy anything, they engaged with it differently. It made me realize that a little effort here adds a layer of presence and professionalism that makes a lasting impression.

If you’re building out your materials for shows or online galleries, I highly recommend checking out my examples of artist bios, artist statements, and even artist business cards to help round out your presentation. It all works together to help you come across as a thoughtful, professional artist.

What to Include on an Artwork Description Card

You don’t need to overthink these, but here’s what I’ve found to be the most effective structure:

The Basics

• Title – Every piece deserves a name. Even if it’s “Untitled,” that still says something.
• Your Name – Especially important if you’re showing in a group exhibition.
• Medium – Be specific (e.g., “ink on cotton rag paper” is better than just “ink”).
• Size – Use inches or centimeters. This helps collectors and curators quickly get a sense of scale.
• Year – Optional, but adds context and credibility.

The Description

Think of this as the heart of the card. I try to write two or three sentences that give insight into either the process, story, or concept behind the piece. Sometimes I keep it poetic, other times practical. If you’re not sure what to write, my guide on how to talk about art can help you build that muscle.

What’s helped me the most is writing these like I’m explaining the piece to a curious but casual visitor. Not someone in the art world—just a thoughtful person who wants to understand what they’re looking at. I’ll often write a rough version while the piece is still in progress, and then refine it when the work is finished.

Avoid sounding overly academic. This isn’t a thesis. You’re just giving a viewer a gentle push into your world.

Examples of Effective Description Cards

Let me walk you through a few real examples from my own work, and why they work.

Example 1: Narrative Drawing

Title: “The Last Lantern” Medium: Ballpoint pen on toned paper
Size: 8×10 inches
Year: 2023
Description: Drawn during a power outage, this piece explores the quiet rituals we turn to when modern life pauses. The single lantern symbolizes the human need for warmth and story.

Why it works: The description is tied to a real moment in my life, which gives it authenticity. It hints at the concept without overexplaining.

Example 2: Digital Illustration

Title: “Signal Lost” Medium: Digital (Procreate)
Size: 12×16 inches
Year: 2024
Description: This illustration reflects on the overload of modern communication. It was inspired by the moment I turned off my phone for an entire day and realized how much mental space it freed up.

Why it works: Personal, relatable, and connects directly to a modern experience many people understand.

Example 3: Sketchbook Study

Title: “Birdsong in Ink” Medium: Ink and watercolor in sketchbook
Size: 7×9 inches (open spread)
Year: 2023
Description: Part of my nature journaling practice, this sketch was done in the field while listening to a Carolina wren. The loose lines capture the energy of its call, drawn quickly before it flew away.

Why it works: It gives context for how and where it was made, which is especially helpful for buyers or fellow artists interested in process.

I try not to use overly dramatic language unless it actually fits the piece. These short descriptions are meant to support the viewer’s connection, not compete with the art itself.

For more examples of how to build a cohesive professional presence, check out my page of artist profiles and artist websites.

Where and How to Use Description Cards

You can use artwork description cards in more places than you might think. I keep a template file on my computer that I update and print as needed, which saves a lot of time.

Gallery Exhibitions

Most galleries will ask for them, and some will create them for you. But if you’re doing a DIY show or pop-up, you’ll want to print and cut them yourself. I like using heavyweight matte paper and a clean sans-serif font.

Sometimes I’ll make a larger version with a slightly longer write-up to go next to a series of drawings, especially if they all tie into one idea.

Art Markets and Fairs

These settings are busy and informal. Keep your cards short and readable at a glance. Laminating them can help if you do outdoor events. I’ve even used little clipboard stands or mini easels to hold them up next to pieces on a table.

Online Shops and Portfolios

Even online, a written description makes a difference. Sites like ArtPal (see my ArtPal review) give you space for this, and so do most online portfolio platforms. I use the same structure and adapt it slightly for web. That usually means making the tone a bit more direct and sometimes including care instructions or print options if it’s a listing.

If you’re building an online presence, I’ve got a full post on selling art online that covers more of these touchpoints.

Making Your Description Cards Match Your Brand

This is something a lot of people skip. The style of your description card should reflect your overall artist brand. If your work is minimalist and clean, don’t clutter your cards with ornate fonts. If your work is vibrant and expressive, lean into that with color or handwritten text.

For a while, I used plain 3×5 white cards with typed text and my logo in the corner. But later, I started experimenting with colored backgrounds, soft textures, and hand-drawn icons to match my nature sketchbook style. It made everything feel more cohesive and helped me stand out at events.

There’s no right answer here—just make sure it feels like you. If you’re working on the bigger picture of branding your art business, my guide on how to start an art business from home goes deeper into creating a consistent experience.