Now that you know what a portfolio is, why do you need one? A record of your work and a broad example of your abilities that you can show to other people is the only way to get work in the arts industries. You can’t simply say that you are a good artist--you must show it. What art fields and jobs require a portfolio? Click through the slideshow to learn more about how portfolios are used in art careers.
Graphic designers work everywhere and across many different platforms. Some work on designing logos for businesses; others create animations. Graphic designers can work as freelancers, within a larger corporation, or with graphic-design agencies. Those who are hiring want to make sure that designers have the style that they (or their clients) are looking for. This is why they want to see a portfolio of work from anyone who applies for a designer position.
Do you want to work in the fashion world? Then you should arrive at your interview with a portfolio of your design work as well as other artworks you have created. Those interviewing you will want to see that you have an eye for fashion and that you are a creative individual who takes risks. That is why you should also include artwork that is not strictly fashion related.
If you want to avoid being a starving artist, make sure your digital portfolio is always up to date with your latest work. You need to be able to apply for grants, get your work into shows or galleries, and reach out to possible clients. They will all want to see examples of your artwork, and this is where your portfolio comes in. Your portfolio can also act as a gallery so that you can sell your artwork online.
Illustrators can freelance or work within a larger publishing company, but the only way they get work is by showing their style and abilities with a portfolio. Authors want to make sure that the illustrator’s work matches their voice, and publishing companies want to hire illustrators whose work matches their style. For example, a company known for publishing graphic novels will not hire someone whose strengths lie in child-like illustration. That artist’s style just wouldn’t fit with their business.
To get into some of the best collegiate art programs, applicants are required to submit a portfolio of work. These programs are competitive, and they want to admit students who show the most creativity and passion for the arts.
If you decide that you eventually want to teach art, you will need a portfolio to show your expertise. This is necessary at the college level because professors typically teach specific courses and work to be an expert in a specific medium or skill (drawing, textiles, graphic design, etc.). A portfolio shows an applicant’s expertise in the field that they want to teach.
These are just a few of the careers in the arts field. What kind of arts job would you be interested in? What art program would you want to apply to? Take a few minutes to research jobs or art programs that interest you and their application requirements. Then, answer the following questions in your sketchbook:
Once you understand the requirements for applying to a job or program, you can begin putting together your portfolio and résumé. You need to have an idea of what they are looking for before you put yourself forward for the position.
