Advice on Art School Portfolio ?????

Question

i have to submit an art portfolio and i was wondering if anyone could tell me what pieces really makes an art portfolio stand and and can give me some examples....also i need a portfolio scholarship so if anyone could tell me what judges really look for in a portfolio

Answer 1

I had to make a portfolio for an art school. Is it just the portfolio or is there an audtion where they meet you? I need to know.

Answer 2

I wonder, is this for high school?

Hmm, well I went through the same thing. However, I can only give you my two cents because the judges don't tell you what they think, you are left to guessing.

We were however advised to not neglect still lifes for they wanted to see what we could do with what is in front of us rather than in our minds. That is not to say that you shouldn't draw from imagination, in fact they encouraged abstract and surreal pieces however already existing cartoons and anime were frowned upon (that might depend on the school though). The biggest piece of advise was probably to create range in our work (variety). To not limit your styles, show a little bit of everything. I'm sorry if this is of no help, lol, but I hope it is...haha. GOOD LUCK and above all have fun with it because if YOU'RE not into your own work the judges won't be either (corny I know).

*** OH and think QUALITY over quantity if you catch my drift.

About the interview: Be as natural as possible. I was dreading (to say the least) the interview but it flowed smoothly because guess what..they're NOT out to get you lol. The interviewer will just want to get some insight. I was asked the MOST random questions. Example: Do you like New York City? Which was thrilling for me to answer because that just happens to be one of my favorite cities and a source of inspiration. So you see, expect anything and respond as freely as possible to create a casual mood in the conversation, yes don't look at it as an interview but as a casual conversation with someone who is interested in your work...no pressure ;]

Answer 3

One thing that really makes an artist's portfolio stand out is variety.  Do something in each of as many different media as you can -- but only include the best.  Try to include a lot of pictures with a variety of tonal values in them -- they are looking for traditional drawing skills.  RISD at one point required a picture of a bicycle in the portfolio.  You might check to see if the school has any explicit requirements like that and if they don't think of the possibilities a bicycle suggests and try to do the best graphic or drawing you can of one.

Your future does depend on it so you want to show off your best work, but it will also stand out if you take a few risks.  The RISD thing -- they required a drawing.  If they say drawing don't do a design.  But maybe a collage with your drawings, paintings, etc. might be a lot of fun.

Answer 4

Make your portfolio traditional (unless the school specifically states that they want a more abstract portfolio).  Include drawings (pencil, charcoal), paintings, and slides of sculptures (if you have them).  Make sure that your body of work demonstrates that you can draw/sculpt/paint from observation... they assume that you will develop creative skills over the course of your education.  

If most of your work is abstract, or conceptual, do include samples of it, however make an effort to also include figure drawings, still lifes, etc.

FYI, by traditional I mean works that demonstrate that you have a knowledge of form, color theory, and light.  The subject matter can be whatever you want (traditional or non).

Answer 5

draw a purple giraffe

Answer 6

While variety might show your experimental works and your versatility consistent growth is more important.  I would include series of works that show development of an idea or theme. I would include some charcoal sketches, and some painting.  Definitely include any figure work you have done, even if it is just quick gesture sketches.

Put yourself in their shoes. . . what would impress you in a student that would make you willing to admit her to your school?  I know I would look for a seriousness, growth and development, and evidence that the artist wants to learn.  And it is true, you should only include your better stuff . . .  

And by all means if you have ever had your work published, in the school newspaper, yearbook, or writing journal, the local paper, or in a book or magazine. . . do include that!  Do not include anything done from copyrighted photos like celebrity pencil sketches or copies of manga.  I am afraid those will not leave positive impressions.