1. Introduction

Visual Art Departments of Universities and Colleges request digital portfolio submissions for entry into their programs.  There is a lot of competition for these spots, so you must put a lot of time and effort into yor portfolio if you are planning to apply.  Typically, they request an upload of between 10 and 20 images, as well as an artist's statement. The work should be no more than 2 years old.


All work must be original. It is absolutely essential that your work be original in creation (made by you) and from an original in idea. You may learn from a master's style, but should not replicate their work or use commercial logos or characters in your submission. School assignments are acceptable, but as you know sometimes I say it's OK to learn by copying - do not choose one of those pieces for your portfolio.  Most institutions ask that you do not submit anime/manga and/or fan art.

I think the best way for you to get an idea of what to submit is for you to go to more than one of the submission sites themselves.  I have provided links to a number of Canadian Art Colleges and University Departments in the next chapter.  Please browse their sites, even those where you are not applying, to get an idea of what is expected from a serious art student.

2. Links to Portfolio Sites

Alberta University of the Arts (Calgary)

U of Alberta Dept of Art and Design (Edmonton)

Emily Carr U of Art + Design (Vancouver)

NASCAD (Halifax)

3. Advice from Professors and Grads

Advice from Professors and Grads on Creating an Art Portfolio for School Admission

Creating a Portfolio

4. Sample Portfolios

These sites will bring you to some sample Portfolios, and show you some of the projects that are suitable to include in a portfolio.  Notice how polished/complete most of the work is.  Notice too that sketchbook pages/projects are included in many portfolios.

ArtProf: tutorials and examples

Mrs T's Examples

5. Conclusion

Building a portfolio is hard work, and takes a lot time.  Pay attention to details. Start thinking about it in grade 10, and start building it in grade 11 if you plan to apply while in grade 12.

You can make an appointment with your art teacher anytime to review what you've got so far, or to discuss your plans.

Don't forget that your art will only look as good as your photos allow.  Here is a blog with some great tips for taking photos of your art with your phone. There are a lot of sites on line to help with this, and if you have someone in your family with a camera and some skills ask for their help.

All Visual Art departments in Canadian Universities and Colleges have open houses, and with covid restrictions these have gone on-line, so you can attend as many as you like. Type in "National Portfolio Day" and you will find that many institutions set aside a day to review your portfolio and give a critique (assessment) for free.  It isn't linked here, because the information and engaged sites are changing all the time.

This is a hard challenge you've set for yourself, but it is hugely rewarding and good practice for your future in Art and Design!