Expert: Gianina L. - 5/13/2007

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I saw in your profile that you cover art portfolio submissions and that prompted me to ask you this question:
What should be included in an art portfolio?
I had already ask this question to two of my art teachers but each one said something different. Only thing similar is that it's important to include real life drawings and have several different artworks created from different meduims. But truthfully, I'm really more interested in cartooning or the style of anime/manga. I know it's important to get down real life drawings first, but I also want to include some anime/manga style. I had seen few who did and got into the college they wanted. But I'm not sure whether to put some in and what other works should I put in? Another thing is that I want to know any colleges that are in the 5 boroughs of New York, has what I'm looking for. (animation,manga,and maybe sculpture)
And thank you in advance for answering this very long question of mine.
ANSWER: Dear Nana,

You've been advised well. Since you're putting together a portfolio submission for college, including life drawing and works created by different media is important. You want to include a variety that demonstrates that you have a handle on basic art and design concepts, which is at the heart of all art, no matter what field you go into. I think there is nothing wrong with including an anime/manga piece. In fact, it will show your interests and versatility, but keep it to a minimum. Do not let it dominate your portfolio. Choose your absolute best one or two and keep the presentation clean. Definitely include any life drawing, still life pieces, and conceptual pieces that demonstrate a variety of techniques.

Now, off the top of my head, the only school I'm familiar with in the area you are asking for is the Pratt Institute, a very good private art school with campuses in Manhattan and Brooklyn. You can find more information about what they offer at www.pratt.edu. I do know they have an animation program but am not familiar with the specifics.

The only college that I'm aware of that currently has an area of study for sequential art (that includes graphic novels and the like) is my alma mater, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Savannah, Georgia and with a new campus also in Atlanta, Georgia. SCAD also has animation and 3-D/sculpture programs. Unfortunately, this isn't in your geographical area of preference, but you can look them up at www.scad.edu.

Try doing a google search by simply typing "art schools" or "art colleges." You'll get a plethora of schools to research.

Good luck!
-Gianina

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I apologize, I should had put my questions from just before to here instead. Also, before my connection had cut short, I didn't got to ask if the portfolio might count more than academic grades? The reason I'm asking this is because my grades are just average nothing really great.
And thank you in advance for any answers you might tell me.  

Answer
Dear Nana,

That's a tough question to answer because it depends on the school you apply to and the individuals reviewing your application, however, I would say you should maintain a good average between your portfolio and your grades. Neither one necessarily counts more than the other, but the balance of everything is what makes a difference. For example, someone with wonderful grades may get by with a less strong portfolio. Someone with an amazing portfolio may get through with a low grade average. If, for you, grades aren't your strong suit, that doesn't mean you're out, but you will need to pay extra attention to your portfolio. Also, be sure to add extracurricular activities, minor job experience, anything that can give you a better overall edge. Colleges want to see well-rounded students.

Hope that helps!
Sincerely,
Gianina