The portfolio institute provides an exceptional opportunity for students to construct and refine a visual body of work under the guidance of visual arts faculty assembled from around the country. The program is designed for students who are actively exploring higher education in the visual arts and have already started to compile works. Activities will provide numerous opportunities to add additional work to the student’s portfolio.
All instructors have extensive experience in portfolio development and will guide students through portfolio preparation for college art programs.
Activities include:
- intensive class sessions
- workshops and seminars focused on concepts of portfolio development
- daily presentations to peers
- portfolio reviews by college representatives and visiting artists
- open studio tutorials for students to continue working on projects
Other subjects include:
- how to research schools and programs to find the best match
- specific requirements for the application process
- how to present yourself and your work to a panel
- how to document your work
Students study and work in the state-of-the-art Dow Center for Visual Arts, centrally located on Interlochen's scenic campus.
Prerequisites
Students are encouraged to bring their current and past finished artwork so that the faculty can evaluate the portfolio and assist students as they develop it further. Original artwork is preferred but photos or digital images are acceptable. Please exercise care in transporting original works. It is also recommended that students bring their sketchbooks.
How to Apply
Students can apply online (strongly encouraged) or by mail. This program enrolls on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application is advised.
A portfolio submission is not required for admission.
Additional Opportunities
We offer the following additional summer programs that may be of interest:
- High School Visual Arts (3 weeks)
- High School Advanced Drawing (3 weeks)
These programs begin right after the one-week Drawing and Painting Institute ends. Multiple-session discounts are available.
Interlochen is also home to the Arts Academy boarding high school, which offers a visual arts major for grades 9-12, as well as a post-graduate year.