Portfolio Process –Step Two

Now that my portfolio has arrived (And I love it!), it’s time to focus on the art! I wanted to wait until I had the portfolio in my hands so I could measure the actual sleeves. I need to be confident in ordering the right size of prints. It’s nice to know that the measurements given for a portfolio are for the actual size of art you will need, not the outside measurements!

The portfolio I chose has 24 8x10in clear sleeves. Which can be doubled to front and back views to hold a total of 48 pieces of artwork.

Maybe you’re like me and that number, even the 24, is incredibly daunting. Sure, I could fill it with everything I’ve ever drawn… but the concept of a portfolio is to showcase your best work. The crème de la crème, so to say. That can be a tough one from the artist’s point of view. Every piece is special on a personal level. So how to you choose?

• The first thing I looked at is a piece’s availability to the gallery/shop I hope to contact. If you have the original(especially if well-framed) make sure to include it. 
• Another great place to start are any pieces that you have available for prints. Not only is this also a plus for the gallery/shop … but if you think it’s good enough to create prints, then it’s good enough to be included in your portfolio.
• ‘Round out’ your portfolio. Don’t choose works from just your favorite medium. The people you are meeting with want to know what you can do! Make sure your portfolio is as diverse as you are.
• MOST important? Be you! I was tempted to fill my portfolio with landscapes and still life works. But my love has always been in portraiture. Include what you love, not what you see already in the gallery. Why would they want to see more of the same? Include work that is unique to you.

Now that I have my portfolio and a selection of art (I pictured a few of my considerations up at the top!) It’s time to start hunting for the best price and quality in prints so I can start putting everything together!

Portfolio Process - Step one

The most important thing about creating a professional portfolio is having a case that looks professional. Simple, right? I thought so, too. The most helpful tips I’ve found when in search of a great presentation case have actually been common sense!

• Keep it simple: It’s tempting to go over the top with a case that is bright and patterned but you are trying to showcase the art. You want your audience to remember you and your work, not the case it was in. Black and brown(neutral shades) are the best colors to look for in a clean and simple portfolio. 
• Go with a firm cover. It will better protect your art and feels more professional in the hands of shop and gallery owners. (Who wants beautiful art flopping around everywhere?)
• Size matters! So keep it portable and easy to handle. A 8x10in - 9x12in size is perfect.
• Have a place for business cards, CD’s and notes. That way everything you may need during a meeting will be one place.

Jerry's Artarama

This is the one I chose, Available at www.Jerry’sArtarama.com. After research and going through this checklist, I felt this one was the best bang for my buck to meet my needs. What caught my attention was the easy-to-clean textured cover and the acid-free divider sheets that will act as a backdrop for my art. It also happened to be on sale. ;)

I’ve placed my order and it is estimated to arrive on the 12^th!

Remember, if you’ve already been through this process, drop me a line! I’d love to know what you learned and how you feel about your own portfolio!

Portfolio Process

The BigHaramph's Print Shop

The months have rolled around to July and I’m finally getting a start on the huge project of making and putting together a professional portfolio to take around to galleries and shops. This is the first baby step in reaching one of my biggest goals this year, so I want to do it right!

Being an avid Do-It-Yourself-er and Google user, I started the search on the internet for the best way to go about this seemingly simply project. But I wanted a walk-through for first timers from an expert who knew what they were talking about…no such luck.

 

I found lists and pointers, which have all been helpful… but what about the young artist who’s never actually seen a portfolio with her own eyes? Little troublesome to know where to start.

So, since there’s no step by step from an expert, I figured I’d write my own as I learn all the best tips, tiny details… and what not to do. I’m positive I’ll have plenty of those moments, too!