What Should
Be Put in a Art Portfolio?
An artist's portfolio can be taken to job interviews, when applying to programs or schools, and to art galleries. It is meant to showcase the artist's work and give others an idea of what type of genre the artist works in. While each institution's requirements may vary, there are several things you should always include in an art portfolio.
Format
Each institution that you apply to will have different limitations on the size and labeling of your files. They may ask that your images (photos of your work) be submitted on either a disc (in JPEG format) or on slides placed in contact sheets.
List of Contents/Artist Statement
Your list of contents should be a brief cover letter type sheet of paper that goes on top in the portfolio, listing the contents of the portfolio so admissions committees can keep track of your items. Your artist statement should be a one-page mission statement about your art and your ideas, talking about why you make what you make. This is also an opportunity to show how articulate you are in summing up your ideas on your art.
Image List
No matter what format you send your images in, you should include a numbered image list for the admissions committee to follow along with. If your pieces are titled, you should also include those with the corresponding number.
Thumbnails
For committees to have quick reference to individual pieces--and as backup--you should also print a sheet of thumbnails of images or 8-by-11s to correspond with the disc or slides.
Shows/Galleries
You should include a list of shows and galleries in which your art has appeared, along with dates and contact information. This will show your ability to work in a professional capacity.
