Students applying to design institutes will be offered the option of presenting portfolios as part of the application process. Applicants are highly encouraged to include writing samples or visual arts portfolios as part of their application package in order to be eligible for scholarships.
What exactly is a portfolio?
A portfolio is a professional presentation of your greatest artistic work that is neatly and clearly displayed.
Tips for creating a visual portfolio (covering visual arts, design, building arts, digital, and time-based media portfolios)
- Send in whole parts.
- Create your artwork on a regular and timely basis.
- Keep a sketchbook or notebook to help you develop your creative ideas.
- Enroll in art lessons.
- Seek comments on your portfolio from classmates, professors, and experts.
- Do not "borrow" photos; instead, use only original work.
- Work from direct observation wherever feasible.
- Experiment with different mediums and approaches.
- Be prolific when developing your artistic repertoire; this will provide you with alternatives later on and allow you to be picky when creating your final portfolio.
Tips and tricks
- Consider your portfolio to be a "visual interview." Your portfolio must be able to speak for itself. A strong presentation highlights your effort and demonstrates your ability to communicate effectively. Take special care with the content and appearance of your portfolio.
- Fill the frame without include anything that might detract from the artwork.
- Consider the full piece.
- Strong values offer an excellent first impression.
- Images should be legible and clear.
- Color balance should be correct in images.
- Crop photos for a more professional look. Edit your portfolio to include only your greatest work and demonstrate that you value quality over quantity.
- Label the photographs clearly to coincide with the information you've provided about your artwork.
- Your best works of art should be evenly placed throughout your portfolio.
- Resumes, awards, and certificates, as well as relevant newspaper articles or magazine write-ups, may be included as supporting documents.
Standard Requirements
Applicants may submit writing examples of fiction or nonfiction, such as research papers, short stories, grammar writing, poetry, or other types of creative or professional writing. All examples must include the applicant's name, title of job, and, if appropriate, the last or teacher/supervisor's name. Research papers should have a clearly defined premise, results, and conclusion; they should be effectively organized, and they should employ quotes and documents in an acceptable and consistent manner according to a specified writing style.
