The MFA Portfolios Track will lay out all the materials you’ll need to provide to apply to an MFA program in studio art.
An MFA portfolio requires a level of maturity and engagement with critical thinking.
Lesson 1 • Lesson 2 • Lesson 3 • Lesson 4
A sampling of homework assignments from your undergraduate degree isn’t going to cut it for an MFA application! At the MFA level, the concerns shift from technical skills to developing a unique artistic vision.
Should I do an MFA?
We recommend watching this video on whether an MFA program is a good fit for your goals. It’s common for people to think they need an MFA degree.
However, in many cases, other options like artist residencies, conferences, or simply experience in the field is all that is required. For example, you do not need an MFA degree to work as a freelance illustrator.
If you’re really not sure, we recommend purchasing an artist call to determine whether an MFA is the right fit for you.
Visit our MFA section and our Pro Development section for more related content.
Pacing
Do the track at your own pace! Taking the time to process the content is important, so we don’t advise putting pressure on yourself to finish the track quickly.
Lesson 1
Portfolio evaluation
Self-critique the current state of your portfolio and create a plan of action for how you will develop your portfolio.
Lesson 2
artist statement
Write artist statements, of varying lengths, that provide insight into your art practice.
Lesson 3
artist cv & letters of recommendation
Write an artist CV (curriculum vitae) that is a history of your practice as an artist. Create a list of people you can get letters of recommendation from.
Lesson 4
Mock mfa interview
Practice speaking about your artwork and other possible interview questions.
Finished?
- Submit your track artworks here.
- We’ll feature your artwork in a live stream!
- We’ll add you to our student galleries.
Join our 2024 Art School Portfolio Group!
Our Art School Portfolio Group provides ongoing support and feedback from our staff of professional artists for students applying or transferring to a BFA, MFA, or post-baccalaureate program.
This group is available now through March 31, 2024.
To participate, you’ll need to 1) join our Discord server and 2) pledge on our Patreon.
