This information is located in our software for artists. Some references within the text will be software related.

YOUR PORTFOLIO

The Professional Portfolio      

Your portfolio is what speaks for you, whether or not you are there when it is presented. It is a visual representation of your work and your degree of professionalism, as well as a record of your accomplishments. It is essential in working with clients, applying for a job, applying for graduate school or requesting an exhibition. You should have a portfolio by the time you graduate from art school or when you feel you are ready to go after a job or exhibition. A portfolio is similar whether you are an artist, a graphic designer or in another arts related field. It displays examples of your work, and can either be hand carried, mailed, or presented digitally. (See Digital Portfolios section)

Documentation of your work is vital. Not only does your work need to look good in its original form, but also it has to look good in slide or digital form. Pay careful attention to documenting your work, as it can make or break your chances of getting what you want. As a veteran of panels, I cannot tell you how many times bad slides of work have put an artist out of the finals. (See Documentation section)

Proofread your portfolio before sending it out. Have someone else proof it to be sure. It is a good idea to have others look at it, so you can see if they have any questions.

PRESENTATION

Exterior
Your portfolio can range from conventional black to something more inventive. A handmade cover, or something made out of materials that catches the eye, is alright, as long as it does not hamper the use of the portfolio. You can also use a box, a binder or loose examples that can be passed around. It must be easy to carry, and durable if it needs to be shipped. It must open easily, and not have parts falling off when being viewed.

Dimensions
Your portfolio should be easy to handle, and not so large as to make it impractical for the viewer. It is usual to show your work through photographs as a first introduction, and then set up a studio visit or other way to see the originals. DO NOT send your original work to a gallery or other venue.

Inside
The inside of the portfolio should be easy to add and delete pages, and rearrange. The pages should be durable; high quality page protectors work quite well. There are archival page protectors that can be ordered from an archival quality distributor of photo supplies, or an art store. These fit into a binder or can fit into a box or case.

Number of Pages
The number of pages you use should be enough to show your best work to its full advantage. If your work is better seen with detail shots, be sure to include them. Do not leave empty pages in the back of the book. Quality is the most important. Do not show everything you have ever made. Show your most recent work and make sure that there is a good reason to include what you do.

Layout of Pages and Backgrounds
Do not use bright colors or distracting backgrounds behind your images. Choose pages where you can change the background if your work looks better on gray, black or white. Do not use fancy graphics or an illegible typeface to label images. Always label your images so the viewer does not have to flip back and forth to see a title or other information. Labels should include: title of piece, year produced, medium, edition size and dimensions. If printing digital images for your portfolio, use matte photo paper to make your images stand out against the page.

Contents
Your portfolio may include a combination of presentation materials including a videotape, a CD Rom or DVD. Make sure the case you choose allows room for all of these mediums. A laptop is an excellent way to present your work, as it makes you self-reliant. If you need to use their equipment, make sure you have called ahead to make arrangements. Always do a run through of your presentation to make sure everything is working and know how to use the equipment before you present your work.

If you cannot be there, make sure you include detailed instructions about how to view the items you have included.

If you have included slides, it is a good idea to have some color prints that they can see easily without a projector. This will entice them to look further.

A good portfolio will include your artist statement, your resume, and some copies of reviews if you have them. An annotated slide sheet, or work description sheet is important. This means a list of your work, with a sentence or two about the work they are seeing. Adding this to your portfolio may enhance the information on your work for the viewer, in addition to your artist statement. The more information the better.

Whenever you get the chance, see other artists’ portfolios.

PORTFOLIO ORGANIZATION

By Chronology or Category
If you lay out your portfolio pieces according to chronology, it is probably a good idea to put the most recent work first, since it is probably more skilled, and will create a good first impression.

If you make multiple kinds of work, such as video as well as paintings, you might want to make separate categories by media. Usually the most recent work goes first and progresses chronologically in the portfolio. You will have to use your best judgment.

Business Cards and Nonreturnable Work Samples
Another good use for pockets and plastic sleeves is to hold loose samples and business cards. You want the person reviewing the portfolio to be able to keep something as a reminder of who you are.

Tailor to What You Are Seeking
Organize your portfolio with elements that prove you are good at what you have solicited. Never use filler or lesser works. Know the required skills for the position you are seeking, and highlight those skills.

Building Your Portfolio
Everyone starts somewhere. If you are lacking work for a portfolio, then make it! Engage with other artists, volunteer to work with nonprofit arts organizations, or just get into the studio.