 The review of a portfolio provides insight into the applicant’s creative process and methods and is an indication of an artist’s creative capacities and strengths. Portfolio reviews are required from all applicants. We prefer that portfolio reviews be conducted in person with the actual artwork. However, we accept portfolios in slide or digital format from applicants who have circumstances which prevent scheduling a personal interview.
Portfolio reviews can be conducted at the Institute by appointment, Open Houses, National Portfolio Days that we attend, and high school visits.
To schedule a portfolio review at the Institute, your high school or to find out which Portfolio Days we attend, please call the Admissions Office at 1-866-241-4918 (toll free).
Portfolio Guidelines
- Your portfolio should include 10 - 20 pieces of recent, original work. Keep in mind that your portfolio should reflect your artistic strengths and interests and that no more than 20 pieces will be viewed. Be sure to edit your portfolio accordingly.
- The Portfolio must contain a minimum of five observational drawings (not copied from photographs or published art work). These drawings can be based on the figure, landscape, and/or still life. (see examples)
- Formal class assignments can also be a part of the portfolio; including any 2D and 3D work, such as color theory, pattern, line, value, mass, space, or historically and conceptually based assignments.
- Works that refer to your personal interests and strengths should also be included. Including photography, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, illustration, metal- smithing, or other mediums. Sketchbooks can also be an important part of your portfolio review, please include, them when ever possible.
- Original artwork should be neatly presented but does not need to be matted, shrink-wrapped or framed.
- Do NOT mail original artwork. If distance or other circumstances prohibit you from having a personal interview with an admission officer, please send your portfolio in one of the following formats: Slide or Digital.
Submitting a Slide Portfolio
 If distance or personal circumstances prohibit applicants from meeting with an Admission Officer for a Portfolio Interview, slide portfolios can be sent directly to the Admission Office. Please follow the instructions below:
- Slides must be standard 35mm 2" x 2" presented in a standard clear plastic slide page.
- Each Slide should be labeled with your name and the top of the image should be indicated.
- Portfolios should not include more than 20 pieces. Please send no more than 20 slides (additonial slides representing different views of 3D work are permissible.)
- A corresponding sheet of paper with a title and a brief description of each image is strongly encouraged.
- Please make sure your slides are of the highest quality, to ensure that your work is properly evaluated.
- A self-addressed, stamped envelope is required for slide return.
- It is highly recommended you Do NOT mail original art work.
Submitting a Digital Portfolio
 If distance or personal circumstances prohibit applicants from meeting with an Admission Officer for a Portfolio Interview, digital portfolios can be sent directly to the Admission Office. Please follow the instructions below:
- Work should be sent on CD
- Make sure you have quality scans of all of your work to insure that your work is properly evaluated.
- Since we will be viewing your portfolio on a computer, and will not be printing your work, please keep the file size to a minimum. 100dpi is more than adequate.
- PC format is preferred.
- Do NOT send original artwork
Image 1 by Glen Scheffer, Image 2 (left) by Jane Langlois, Image 2 (right) by Trish Gibbs, Image 3 by Joe Vivilecchia
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