Busting the Art Myth...
Talent is a lie. Effort is everything.
Art As A Career
You don't have to starve when working in a creative field.
A major survey conducted by The Strategic National Arts Alumni Project (SNAAP) a comprehensive research initiative that surveys graduates from arts, design, and related disciplines to understand their educational experiences and career trajectories
conclude that
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almost half (47%) felt that their career is closely related to their field of study;
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46% felt that their career ‘very much’ drew upon the skills and abilities developed at their arts and design alma mater; and
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70% felt that having a degree in arts, design or a related management field has been ‘very important’ or ‘important’ to advancing a career in arts or design.
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The overall largest gap between skills acquired and those needed in paid work is for ‘business, financial, or entrepreneurial skills’
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65% of working alumni reported these skills as ‘important’ or ‘very important’ in their employment
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33% reported acquiring them ‘some’ or ‘very much’ during their postsecondary education.
70%
Arts degree is vital for advancement
Gap
Biggest gap: business-related skills
Value
Self-employed artists value work alignment
It Begins Freshman Year
Freshman year may sound early, but you will need a lot of practice time.
Freshman & Sophomore
Portfolio Planning
Freshman year begin planning classes for your sophomore, junior, and senior years for any visual and performing class if you want to take an AP course.
Sophomore year, you will begin compiling your portfolio.
Sophomore summer, you need to either take a summer art class or consider an art-related internship.
Junior & Senior
Portfolio Planning
During the school year and over the summer, submit work for and attend
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auditions
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competitions
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participate in performances
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national and college portfolio review
Apply for
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programs
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internships
Senior Stretch
Portfolio Planning
Update your documented artwork, by re-photographing for high-quality digital images that showcase your work in the best possible way.
Update your resume to include important leadership opportunities, internships, competitions, exhibits, performances, etc...
Seniors & Schools
Portfolio Planning
Visual arts applicants using the Common Application will need to submit a portfolio through the Common Application and SlideRoom app.
Even if you are not applying to an art school, you can still upload a digital portfolio to show your schools of choice you have interests other than your intended major.
Conservatory vs. Uni
Portfolio Planning
Musicians and vocalists who want formal training look at conservatories or universities with top music programs.
These schools require auditions and performance resumes.
The application process is also very different than the usual college application.
Auditions & Interviews
Portfolio Planning
Audition portfolios are a chance for you to prove your current level of musicianship and acting skill, potential for growth, and readiness to succeed. Some colleges focus on performance, improvisation, sight-reading, and ear training because they seek students who are prepared to study and master all elements of their craft.
Performing Portfolio
Portfolio Planning
Most schools require a faculty interview (in person or online). Before the Portfolio Review, submit your digital portfolio via SlideRoom—including a résumé and sometimes a headshot. You’ll usually upload 10–20 files, and pay a small fee. Follow all guidelines exactly, and don’t forget to schedule your review missing that means your work won’t be considered.
Art School vs. College
Portfolio Planning
According to Margaret Carrigan contributor for Artsy.net the art world has become increasingly professionalized. Don't choose an art school based on geography alone. You choose based on:
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Resources - studio space, equipment, technology
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Ranking - knowledgeable and easily accessible professors, academic reputation, and teacher to student ratio
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Art vibe of the city - opportunities for artists