This document excludes photography. For hints for photography applicants, click here.

The Application Portfolio: First (Intermediate Unit) Level of Competition

The application portfolio should contain 4 – 8 two- or three-dimensional objects that represent the range, depth and special interests of the applicant’s experience as an artist. Follow the directions on pages 3 and 7 of the 2009 Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Arts for completing a full application that includes the Personal Data Form and the narrative statement in addition to the portfolio.

1. Do not wait until the last minute to assemble the application portfolio.

2. Make sure each article in the portfolio is labeled with the artist’s name.

3. Remember to include an itemized list of the art work in the portfolio that describes each piece.

4. Protect the art work. Three-dimensional works should be packaged in boxes with adequate packing material like scrunched up newspapers to pad it. Unstable media like pencil, charcoal or pastels should be coated with fixative. Consider backing, matting or mounting drawings to prevent damage that may occur in transfer.

5. Two-dimensional work should reflect compositions made from observation, such as still-life, landscapes, figures and conceptual ideas, as well as abstract work. The work should include classroom assignments AND self-inspired compositions.

6. Two-dimensional media can be drawings, paintings, pastels, prints, inks, charcoal, mixed media, and/or computer assisted images.

7. Three-dimensional work can be pottery, sculpture, jewelry, fabric, architectural models, etc.

8. If the work is too large, too fragile, too awkward to submit, or if a piece is currently submitted to the Scholastics competition or is otherwise unavailable, it may be represented by good quality slides or color photographs. The photographs may be taken with a traditional or digital camera that allows fine detail. Do not directly scan a drawing or painting and reproduce it electronically. Furthermore, if using digital photography, be sure to print the photograph on photo-grade paper.

9. While frames, glass and hanging apparatus are not allowed, applicants should take care in the condition of the work. Mounting or matting drawings and paintings is recommended. Spraying fixative on pencil, charcoal or pastels or anything that may smudge is strongly recommended. Transparent plastic sleeves are acceptable.