8) Can you recall a portfolio that was really special?
Angi: Actually, Duirwaigh Gallery is a full service artist management company, and as part of our service, we often create portfolios for our artists. We spend a great deal of time, energy and money making sure the graphics are eye-catching, the type face is clean and tight, the correspondence is interesting yet concise and the reproductions are attractive and appropriate for the client. If you do not have artist representation already or prefer to go it alone, there are several books available. ‘The Visual Artists Business and Legal Guide’ by Gregory Victoroff, ESQ. comes to mind.
Judith: I had an artist mail me her portfolio in a wonderful, dynamic way. She sent a flyer of general art, including a creative design layout. It also included a CD of all her work (in both PC and MAC friendly formats) – extremely organized, easy to access, great presentation. Inside the brochure were also a few high-quality 8 by 10 prints of her work (and a detail of texture blown up in the corner of each piece). This portfolio was complete, creative, detailed, and varied in style and medium. She had included a clean artist statement, resume, and business card. And it was done in a very professional manner. Lastly, she included a self-addressed, stamped envelope to send it all back.
Final Words.
Angi: The key issues when creating your portfolio:
* Develop your craft — Believe in yourself enough to develop your skills.
* Invest in a professional, attractive binding/presentation when you’re ready to present yourself to the world.
* Select your best works — Show your style and your abilities proudly.
* Keep it real — Accurate representation secures peace of mind for you and your client.
* Keep it simple and straightforward. Ten to twenty pieces are enough to generate interest without overwhelming.
* Consider your audience — Be conscientious of the job and skills required for it.
* Include introduction, thank you and supporting materials if available.
Eric: A portfolio, online or physical, should not be jumped into without some careful planning and budgetary allowances that will best present you and your best work.
Judith: We once looked at the most horrible portfolio from the most amazing artist. His portfolio was held together with duct tape, and most pieces were not the artist’s proofs. Most photos had scratches and tears. The artist himself was a true ‘Goth’ with long, greasy black hair, torn, safety pin clothes and combat boots. But his work was WONDERFUL! We ended up guiding him through presentation (matting, framing, et cetera) and he became one of our most successful consignees. So in the end, the artist’s skill still matters the most (despite the portfolio)–if you’re able to find an understanding customer to guide you.
Obviously, a lot of thought must go into a portfolio, as well as really good art. I know I am going straight to my drafting table. All in all, I hope the information provided here has helped to clarify the portfolio process and speeds you toward the creation of your own killer portfolio. Now go slay ‘em!
Erika Schulz is an aspiring professional who only wrote this article out of selfish desire. She wanted to know how to create her own killer portfolio.
