Thinking about applying to art college? Montserrat College of Art has compiled everything you need to know about building your college art portfolio.

A portfolio is a curated selection of artwork that best represents you as an artist, allowing you to showcase your skills and talent to the Admissions Office.

PORTFOLIO CHECKLIST
• Select Your Best Work: Include 12 to 15 of your strongest, most resolved works created within the last two years.

• Observational Drawings: Include two or more direct observational drawings created from real life in front of you, such as a still life, environment, or portrait, rather than working from photos or imagination. Both traditional materials and digital media are accepted.

• Keep It Original: Submit only original creations. Do not include fan art, celebrity portraits, or theatrical performance samples.

• Optional Writing: You may include up to two pieces of creative writing, provided each is under 1,000 words.

DOCUMENTATION TIPS
• Lighting & Quality: Photograph your art in bright, balanced light using a cell phone or camera.

• Focus on the Art: Crop out distracting elements to keep your work centered.

• 3D Work: Combine multiple photographs to highlight details and show different angles.

• Details Matter: Include a title, brief description, materials used, dimensions, and the concept or inspiration for each piece.

• Stay Organized: Keep your artwork neatly stored in a digital folder or a physical portfolio bag.

Want feedback on your portfolio before you apply? Reach out to Montserrat Admissions to schedule a preliminary portfolio review with one of our counselors.

Visit the Admissions link in bio or reach out to us directly at
[email protected]
978.921.4242 x1153