A strong portfolio opens doors to galleries, commissions, art school, and opportunities. Learning to curate and present your work effectively is as important as creating it.
Portfolio Purpose
Different goals require different approaches:
- Gallery representation: Cohesive body of work
- Commissions: Range of skills and subjects
- Art school: Growth and potential
- Social media: Engaging, shareable work
Selecting Work
Quality Over Quantity
- 10-20 strong pieces better than 50 mediocre
- Each piece should represent your best
- Remove anything you're not proud of
Show Range (When Appropriate)
- Different subjects
- Various sizes
- Multiple techniques
- But maintain cohesion
Tell a Story
- Arrange thoughtfully
- Create visual flow
- Start and end strong
Photographing Artwork
Lighting
- Even, diffused light
- Avoid harsh shadows
- Natural daylight ideal
- Two lights at 45 degrees
Camera Position
- Perpendicular to artwork
- Use tripod for stability
- Fill frame with artwork
- Avoid distortion
Digital Portfolio
Website
- Clean, professional design
- Easy navigation
- High-quality images
- Contact information clear
- Artist statement
Social Media
- Consistent posting
- Behind-the-scenes content
- Engage with community
- Professional presentation
Physical Portfolio
- Archival quality prints
- Consistent presentation
- Professional case or book
- Include price list if selling
Create portfolio-worthy work with quality materials from our painting guides.
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