Building your portfolio can be a very tough with all the stress of compiling and displaying your cherished hard work plus the inevitable bus or train journey to get to your favoured university could equal one mess of a student (we've all been there!). So we want to make this time as easy as we can for you, so here's our guide to creating the strongest portfolio of work to best represent you.
Know yourself, and your work
Before putting together a selection of your work that best represents you, you should look at who you are as an artist/designer, and take a look at your work as a whole. Ask the questions:
- What motivates you?
- What special approaches and qualities do you bring to your work?
- What would you say about your work in one sentence?
Familiarise yourself with the course you’re applying for
All art and design courses are different, and the type of portfolio they want can vary widely. Reading and re-reading application guidelines throughout the process allows you to cater your portfolio to a specific audience and incorporate their individual requirements as your ideas progress and your work develops.
Show your steps
Remember that not every piece of work has to be finished. You should always include a few sketches and unfinished pieces that show your own personal way of working. The method is most certainly in the madness, and tutors need to see this process. It’s always important to showcase the development of your practice and projects.
Presentation is key
Be sure to take care and mount your artwork using the same card throughout and be sure to stick it on straight. If you're wondering which portfolio to choose from we’ve put together a product guide below to help you with the best selection to showcase your practice in the best manner.
Below are examples and tips from artist Felicity Meachem showcasing the versality and vibrancy achieved on how to make your porfolio stand out from the crowd!
'Portfolios are going to be an important tool in your artistic career, not just for applying to university, so this is great practice! It's a bit of a cliché but definitely don’t leave it to the last minute. Portfolios take time and should be constantly updated as you make new work. Make sure to pay close attention to detail - it shows you are professional and are proud of your work. Applying for university is not just about grades anymore, your work is what’s key. Most importantly, do not let someone else dictate your portfolio for you. Always welcome a fresh set of eyes to look at your work but remember, you are the artist and you are in charge. University is about you becoming an independent artist rather than always relying on what your teachers tell you to do. Trust your instincts, you can’t pretend to be something you're not!'
'Depending on what kind of course you're applying for, it can vary. In terms of painting it is very important. Showing your own unique flair is what interviewers are looking for. They see the same thing all the time so try to find some kind of distinctive hook or thumbprint that sets you apart from other candidates. For instance, you could use something unconventional to fold your work in. I knew a girl who put her work in an old vintage suitcase that she inherited from her grandparents.' - Felicity Meachem
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