Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Art
This category is made up of people who have considerable control over the sub-
ject, message, media, and presentation of their creative work. That freedom usually
extends to the digital portfolio. If you want to make art for commercial purposes (like
an illustrator) rather than sell or exhibit art that you have made for personal expres-
sion, you should look at the other categories instead of or in addition to this section.
The two portfolio purposes really shouldn't mix, as they have different audiences.
Student | for admission
Students belong in the art category because their primary focus isn't (or
shouldn't be) making a living from their artwork—although every student would much
prefer to freelance for spending money than to wait on tables. Being a student is a
transitional state. Because you're still on the road to your goal and able to change
focus as you experience new options, you can create a portfolio that includes many
facets of your creative life.
Admission portfolios are special: The people judging your work tell you exactly
what they want to see. Don't take this gift for granted. Meet the requirements as
closely as you can. If digital portfolios aren't mentioned as a submission medium,
don't send one, even if all your artwork is computer-based. Some academic institu-
tions are just old-fashioned, and the admissions committee isn't comfortable handling
technology. Others are perfectly adept with computers but have very good reasons
(see Chapter 4) why they may not welcome discs.
While you're in school
Student portfolios should evolve constantly as you learn and complete more projects.
Weed out the older work as quickly as you can. It's the rare high school project that can
hold its own after a year or two of higher education.
Start a digital portfolio early. If you have a PDA, keep a few choice examples of your work
stored as photos. Many students get their first experiences in their field in internships, co-
ops, or as part-time or summer freelancers. You meet people at parties, at events, and
even on the street. You never know when an opportunity to design a logo or shoot a CD
cover might depend on your being able to show your ideas on the fly.
Keep your student portfolio wide-ranging. Even if you plan on becoming a designer, contin-
ue to include good examples of your work in other media, particularly if you are a strong
illustrator or accomplished photographer. Showing that you can offer a full-service
approach can be the clincher for the type of personal work that builds student portfolios,
like collateral for bands or identity projects for business startups. You'll have most of your
life to carry a focused portfolio, so enjoy a range of media while you can.
