What sort of things should i put in my portfolio for art?

Question

Is anything exceptable?

Answer 1

I have 2 books, my main book has a variety of things everyone likes; (famous portraits of people everyone knows, animals, sceneries, still life, cartoons, etc.) along with some pieces that you like, & a few wild pictures at the end that won't offend. In the other book I put all my wild & adult related stuff I like; & only show it to friends & people who request to see it.

Answer 2

It would depend on it's purpose, and for what age level of the artist.

First, in any portfolio, one should include only the BEST of the best work. Limit a portfolio to a dozen or so pieces, and ALL of these should be pieces that the artist believes shows his or her talent at its best. Most people do not want to feel obligated to study and appreciate a whole bunch of drawings. I might suggest that those dozen pieces carry a particular theme, such as similar subject matter, (animals, or, flowers, or portrats, etc) or all in one form of media. (watercolors, or pastels, or color pencil, etc) However, the theme concept is less important than showing off the quality of work.

If the portfolio is for carrying around to show friends and family, then loose sheets of drawings and paintings should be fine, and presentation is not that important.

If the portfolio is for exhibiting the artist's work to higher education teachers, or potential employers or clients, then the presentation can be important. In such cases, the pieces should be mounted on boards of equal size and of neutral colors that do not distract from the artwork. The boards and artwork should not be oversized, as this might present difficulties for the audience to view the pieces. Think about it: desk space is limited for a busy professional.

They should be presented in a neat, professional portfolio case. These range in price from very reasonable coated carboard and string bound cases, to more pricey leather like, zippered cases. The cost of the case is less important than its being as neat and pristine as the artist can keep it. The presentation shows that the artist is serious and proud of the work inside. The content shows the artist's talent.