ART AUDITION

PART 1: Portfolio Review

• Each student is required to submit for review a Portfolio of original work.
• Artwork and portfolio can be any size that is comfortable for the student to carry.
• Portfolio should include between 10 - 20 pieces of work.
• All art pieces must be either matted or mounted.
• Selected pieces should be 2-dimensional work only. Photographs can be used to show sculpture, ceramics, and other 3-dimensional works.
• Only original work should be submitted. No photocopies of work will be accepted.  
• Each piece of work should be labeled:
     o  Done under supervision  (i.e. in class with a teacher)
     o  Done without supervision  (i.e. done completely independently)
     o  From observation or from imagination
• All portfolios are returned at the end of the exam.

PART 2: In-Class Drawing Exam

Applicants must demonstrate specific skills by completing 3 drawing exercises.  Approximately 30 minutes will be given for each exercise:

1. Draw a live model – drawing pencil
2. Draw a still life from memory – drawing pencil
3. Illustrate a topic that is given – Cray-Pas  (i.e., A Hot Day at the Beach)

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions – Art

Q: How can I prepare to take the test?
A: Practice drawing exercises similar to those given in the audition.  Select those that are the most interesting for the portfolio. Here are some examples to help you prepare:

• Set up a series of still life drawing problems: first, a single object such as a pair of eye glasses or a shoe; then use two objects, then three, and so on.  Take objects away and draw from memory.
• Work with crayons or Cray-Pas to illustrate street scenes, crowd scenes, and landscapes.
• Keep a sketchbook.

Q: What does the portfolio tell the examiners?
A: The portfolio demonstrates seriousness and depth of interest.  A variety of subject matter indicates someone who is able to try different problems.

Q: Will I have an opportunity to discuss my portfolio?
A: Yes.  The examiners will hold a short conference to discuss how the work in the portfolio represents the applicant’s art experience, plans, and commitment.

Q: What are the examiners looking for in the test?
A: The examiners look for imagination and creativity. They are looking for students who can draw from observation, compose a picture on the page, and use color in an effective way.  

Q: What does the student bring to the test?
A: The portfolio, pencil, admission ticket, and a 2008-2009 Report Card or Transcript.  Paper, Cray-Pas, drawing pencil, and eraser will be supplied.

Q: What are the procedures in the test room?
A: Applicants are assigned to an art classroom where there are art tables, materials, and a sink for washing hands after the test.  Each student is assigned a number.  After each problem, the applicant posts work on the board next to that number. By the end of the test, each applicant has 3 pieces of work displayed.  While students are working, the examiners are reviewing the portfolios and holding a short conference with each student. All portfolios are returned to the applicant at the end of the exam.