Art portfolio?

Question

Besides an Artist's Statement and images of my art work, what else goes into an Art Portfolio? Is a listing of shows in which I've participated and groups to which I belong important if you are presenting the portfolio to a retail space? Is educational background necessary to include? I haven't been in school in 20 years!

Answer 1

I would put all important information- relevant to your portfolio/work.

Artist Statement
Images of work
Listing of shows (definitely important)
Groups (if relevant to your art experience)
Educational background (if relevant to art experience. did you go to art school/study art at a university?)

You are trying to impress the space owner, so put all the information that will help you go in that direction.

Answer 2

A well organized portfolio is extremely important in presenting your work. You will want to begin your portfolio with a one page biography next a one page artist statement followed by 8-10 photos of work also one page of slides of that same work. If you would like more info on getting started in the art profession, I recommend a book titled Making It As An Artist written by professional artist DePolo. Taking a few minutes to read and research can make a big difference in the long run.
As far as listing educational background in your biography...that is optional. I would like to stress the importance of presenting a well organized informational artist portfolio...you spent a lot of time on your art and it deserves to be presented in the best possible way. Also, the information you give retailers and gallery owners is the same information they use to write press releases and announcements to local papers. Good Luck!

Answer 3

The answer really depends on what kind of art you're doing (contemporary, commericial, etc.).

If you're a graphic artist you really want to "package" yourself. Your portfolio should have a unified and interesting look. You probably want a personal logo and have it on your business card, letterhead, etc. That package would include a resume, samples of your work, and a list of prior clients. You want to make sure that the work is your very best. Potential clients will judge you on the worst piece in your portfolio (figuring the worst of your best is probably the best they can expect from you). No artist statement for this kind of portfolio package.

If you're a contemporary or fine artist, then portfolio usually just refers to the 20 slides (or jpeg images). You'd also have a slide sheet which provides the title, year, & material. If you're using slides they would be labeled, too. You'd want a resume and statement. Good guidelines for artist resumes can be found at: http://www.collegeart.org/guidelines/resume.html

Answer 4

Other than the statement and artwork, include a resume. A resume that lists all your relevant experience and education. Do it clearly on 1 neat sheet of paper, or 2 if you must (don't make it confusing to read). However the #1 thing in a portfolio would be the artwork itself rather than education. Also include your contact info on the cover.

Answer 5

I think art portfolio's are strictly for art pieces. Putting documents in an art space may not look so professional. I advise you organize other art documents in a separate notebook or folder. That's how i do it for school. I'll never put my "Art work" with my "Artwork".

Answer 6

artist statement, slide sheet, maybe 5 physical examples to show.

the art speaks for itself...and sell yourself..nothing else matters but that. oh and be sure to talk about a piece clearly about why you picked certain colors, lines, neg.space, value, etc...pretty much all you. so be confident ,if i can you can!!

Answer 7

Probably a resume,with a listing of shows,education,and experience.Thanks.