Select between 10 and 20 original, current samples of student artwork.
Organize student artwork selections by type or theme. For example, keep black and white photos together, color photos together. Separate painting, which should include watercolor, oil and acrylic samples, examples into their own section. Drawing samples should include a variety of work such as charcoal and pastels. For 3-D work such as sculpture, take photographs of the piece that shows all angles.
Include representative, observational art. These are pieces such as landscapes or portraits, created from real life.
Include personal art. This may include any subject that is part of the artist’s personal interest, by either subject or medium.
Consider keeping an art journal or sketch diary. Use these ideas in a brief description of each piece.
Purchase a professional portfolio case.
Take photographs of each piece of artwork that will not fit into the portfolio.
Organize student artwork into the case. Include the title of the piece, date it was completed, dimensions, such as the size of the original canvas or sculpture, medium, and brief description.
Make sure your portfolio appears neat and organized. Prints should be clean and professional, free of fingerprints or smudges. Mat lines should be straight. Consider going to a professional frame shop to cut matting.
Take photographs of artwork with a manual camera, ideal for creating 35 mm slides.
Use a solid background when taking photographs so that the artwork is seen clearly.
Label focused and professionally developed slides with name, date, title, medium and description.
Save a master copy of the 35 mm slides.
Obtain access to technology to create an e-portfolio for student artwork.
Determine whether the computer can upload quality images through scanning or a digital camera. Check for software that will assist in creating a portfolio and work with images.
Acquire web space for an online e-portfolio. If web space isn’t available, save the portfolio files on a CD-ROM. File sizes should not exceed submission standards.
Ask a friend or teacher to critique the portfolio.
Examine strengths and weaknesses in a portfolio presentation. Verify that the portfolio adheres to the institution's application criteria.
Listen to the critic's advice. Be willing to make changes before submitting or presenting a student art portfolio.