Portfolio Requirements

Applicants to the Visual Arts Department must submit at least 7 pieces that give a clear picture of who they are as an artist. All submissions must be the applicant’s original work.
Images of artwork should be submitted as part of the student’s online application. In addition to the 2D requirements listed below, applicants may include painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, animation, architecture, printmaking, mural work, graphic art, creative technology, and video art.
Your portfolio must include:

1. Two (2) direct observation drawings of objects or buildings (not from photographs) using pencil, charcoal, or pen.
2. Self-portrait from observation, any non-digital medium.
3. Two-Four (2-4) quick sketches or drawings from a sketchbook.
4. Four (4) other works in any medium.
5. The following question is for 11th, 12th, and PG applicants only: Select one piece and write about your process, ideas, and challenges, etc.

*Please do not submit physical artwork.
**Each portfolio piece must include a title and/or a description of the type of project, materials used, and the size and date.

Brief responses to each of the following:

1. What do you think your role as an artist is in today’s world?
2.    What do you want to achieve both artistically and personally at Idyllwild Arts Academy?                                                                                                                                                     
3. What motivates or inspires you artistically?

Helpful tips for a successful portfolio:

• Images of pieces must be lit adequately and evenly.
• Images of pieces must be photographed “straight on.”
• Drawings must be flat and clean, and the page must fill the whole screen (no torn edges)
• Images must be clear and in focus.
• Suggested format: in a Word document, PowerPoint, or similar format, including one image per page with the information beneath each image.