What are the essential items to include in a design portfolio for a beginner?

Question

I'm thinking of putting together an art portfolio of different things to get into design school. I am a beginner with no formal design background, but can draw and paint pretty well.

Seeking help from design-school-goers and designers..

Thanks!

Answer 1

Definitely put in a range of items.

Anything you've had published.

Perspective work.

Linear work.

Figure drawing.

Depending on what you're putting it together for, (i.e. school) there may be certain requirements; sometimes they suggest putting in a few of your own pieces. Make sure these vary, and aren't all the same thing over and over. As should be expected, it's good to have some variety so they know you are capable of different things.

Answer 2

You need a few things:

- Resume; this should contain your professional background, and educational experiences, such as Painting 1 & 2, Figure Drawing, Abstract art or whatever you have already learned. And always have the name of the teacher; if they are well known in come circles, then they can refer you personally.

- Copies of sketches, paintings, and professional jobs, such as flyers, t-shirts (completed & incomplete) and whatever else you might have done in the past or are doing now.

- After that, have some personalreferences, such as people that like your art, like working with you, client references and the like.

Also, make this onto CD-Rom or onto slides, as some (though not as many) still want to be able to evaluate your art on a large scale. After that, ask many other artist on-line via phone or e-mail, so you can get as much input as possible for what you need & don't need.

Good luck.



Jaime