October 8, 2024
Last Friday, 25 students in WVHS art teacher Kristen Spano’s Portfolio and Art Careers class had their work reviewed by experienced counselors/artists from more than 30 colleges, along with their post-high school plans. I got a valuable opportunity. Mr. Spano and his students traveled to Poughkeepsie for Hudson Valley Regional Portfolio Review Day (Portfolio Day). Portfolio Day has been running for over 20 years, with over 400 local students participating each year. This work is supported in part by awards from the National Endowment for the Arts and funding received from the New York State Council on the Arts.
At Portfolio Day, experienced mentors from the visual arts world critique students’ portfolios and provide concise, practical information about students’ work, careers in the arts, and the college application process relevant to aspiring artists. Share feedback and suggestions with students. WVHS artists bring a portfolio of 10 to 20 of their latest and greatest visual work, along with works in progress and sketchbooks, and share more details about their creative process when asked. could be used for. Students who attend Portfolio Day gain first-hand expert insight and guidance to ensure they are well ahead as they execute their post-high school plans.
“Some of our seniors have received what is called a portfolio exemption for their outstanding work,” Spano said. “This means students do not have to formally submit their portfolios online for college admissions, as counselors have already approved their artwork in person during the Portfolio Day event. .”
Mr. Spano’s class is a unique opportunity for WVHS juniors and seniors to deepen their artistic knowledge and skills. This class provides a unique combination of creative and hands-on education and support, guiding students through the process of building a portfolio of their own work while planning a college and career path in the arts. Students who choose to take the Portfolio and Art Careers class must demonstrate advanced drawing and design skills and must be able to create in a variety of media. In addition to creating a portfolio of 15-18 pieces, each student will also take on two to three college/career-related visits and attempt to host a solo exhibition of their work.
Portfolio Day is hosted by Art Effect and organizations that “support young people to develop their creative voices, shape their futures and bring about positive social change.” Art Effects helps young people explore, experience and excel in the arts, introducing them to visual arts and media, giving them the opportunity to develop real skills in these areas, and supporting their academic and career goals. guide you towards the achievement of ” (thearteffect.org)
The Art Department at Warwick Valley High School provides students with a catalog of courses that encourage imagination and personal expression, teaching aspiring artists the applied skills they need to realize their visions and aspirations. The district’s arts curriculum is aligned with the portrait of its graduates and specifically helps to develop characteristics as creators and collaborators who are ready to succeed in and contribute to their communities.
“I am very proud of the students who submitted their work for review, and as a way to express their gratitude to the counselors who took the time to review their portfolios, they I created a postcard depicting his work.” Mr. Spano. “Postcards also gave students an opportunity to leave a lasting impression on admissions counselors.”
