Drawing Intensive: Developing a Portfolio

Studio arts courses are offered in conjunction with Columbia University's School of the Arts.

This course is aimed at developing a series of foundational drawings for a fine arts college-application portfolio.

Students explore various approaches to drawing from both observation and imagination while focusing on conceptually creative assignments. Each session develops the students’ approach to various materials, composition, and personal narratives into completed works that can be used for a final portfolio. Students have prolonged time to study and sketch the human figure from live nude models in class. Ideas are explored through assigned writings and developed in a sketchbook throughout the course.

A visit to a museum or gallery is scheduled as part of the course so as to facilitate discussion of relevant art historical concepts as well as contemporary approaches to drawing.

Lastly, participants learn how to prepare and digitally document works into a final portfolio for college applications.

Some previous experience with drawing is recommended, and the course is designed for students interested in applying to a visual arts undergraduate program in the future. All materials are provided.