This is the most detailed description I've seen (in English) on the subject of competences et talents: The ?Skills and Talent? Card visa (Carte Compétences & Talents) - Consulat Général de France à Washington

The criteria aren't any different for "artists" than for anyone else. The key things are your project and your qualifications to carry out the project. Usually, they seem to like to see a business plan - to define the project and show that you've considered the financing and other practical issues of carrying it out.
Cheers,
Bev