Applying to an art college or university is never easy.
You have to visit the institutions’ websites to download the entry forms and get the necessary paperwork ready on time.
And then there’s the portfolio submission.
The catalogue of an artist’s best work must be creative, unique and original in style in order to be considered.
Coquitlam teacher Lili Masbough knows the process well.
An oil painter who has a master’s degree in visual arts from the University of Tehran, Masbough has guided many high school and mature students who are planning to pursue undergraduate courses or diplomas in fine art, architectural or interior design at the post-secondary level.
Next month, Masbough will return to the Port Moody Arts Centre to offer a workshop called Portfolio Day for University Applications.
A half-day session on Saturday, Oct. 3, her class is aimed at ensuring students’ work gets noticed by the college and university judges.
In the past, her students have been in their teens and find it hard to express themselves. “They don’t have the confidence,” Masbough said, “so I tell them they need to find their inner artist. That’s how you rise to the top.”
It means students must go in as if they were interviewing for a job. They have to be organized and define what it is they want.
First, Masbough recommends her students make a list of the colleges and universities they want to go to; however, they must take note of each school’s requirements as they differ and sometimes vary from year to year.
Often, she calls or emails the school when the descriptions are clear. “They are always very open and happy to answer your questions,” she said.
Second, the artist statement must be strong. Applicants must present an essay with an introduction, a supporting explanation and conclusion — all of which answer questions such as: What makes me a good artist? Why am I choosing art for a career? and What do I plan to do after I graduate?
“You don’t want to impress the judges. Just talk about what you really think about art and tell them the truth. Honesty goes a long way.”
Finally, Masbough suggests students submit documents to as many schools as possible to keep all doors open whether it be within B.C. (Emily Carr University of Art + Design, SFU, UBC, UCFV or UVic) or to eastern Canada or U.S. learning centres. “You don’t want to limit yourself.”
• The deadline to register for Portfolio Day for University Applications is Sept. 28. Participants are asked to bring their portfolios and a snack. Call the Port Moody Arts Centre (2425 St. Johns St.) at 604-931-2008 or visit pomoarts.ca.
