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SCAD Admissions and Portfolio Guidance

Apr 4, 2025

Lecture Notes: SCAD and Portfolio Preparation

Introduction to SCAD

  • Speakers: Robert (Director of Admission) and Will O'Donnell (Director of Training and Development)
  • SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) offers over 40 programs in art and design.
  • Locations: Atlanta, Georgia, and Savannah, Georgia, USA.
  • SCAD has been offering online learning since 2003.

SCAD Challenge Scholarship

  • Deadline: February 15th
  • Eligibility: Open to juniors and seniors in the US (Years 11 and 12) and UK (Years 12 and 13).
  • Prizes: $4,000, $3,000, and $2,000 scholarships.
  • Can stack with other academic scholarships.

Importance of a Portfolio

  • Not required for admission but crucial for scholarships.
  • A portfolio evolves throughout an artist's career.
  • SCAD Portfolio Evaluation: Presentation (25%), Technique (25%), Creativity (50%).

Portfolio Preparation Tips

  • Presentation: Thoughtfully prepared, cropped images, high-resolution scans.
  • Technique: Use elements and principles of art like composition, color balance, perspective, and anatomy.
  • Creativity: Shows originality and personal style, avoids plagiarism.

Avoiding Plagiarism

  • Cite sources if using existing art as inspiration.
  • Give credit to original artists.

Examples of Successful Portfolios

  • 2D Design: Emphasis through composition, color use, and unique themes.
  • Photography: Unique perspectives, evokes emotional/intellectual response.
  • Sculpture: Properly showcased in a clean environment, photography highlights work.
  • Graphic Design: Use of complementary colors, creative visual solutions.
  • Fashion: Consistent branding and presentation, shows evolution from concept to execution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Poor photo quality with shadows, reflections, and unintended backgrounds.
  • Overused themes: eyeballs, simple selfies, vector art with minimal creativity.
  • Unfinished work unless unavoidable; ensure professional presentation.

SCAD Application Process

  • Apply at scad.edu/apply.
  • Use SlideRoom to upload portfolios.
  • Review process considers academic, achievement, and portfolio elements.
  • Advisors assist throughout the process.

Contact Information

  • Robert provides contact for inquiries and portfolio review.
  • Importance of early engagement in the application process.

Closing Remarks

  • Encouragement to utilize SCAD's support and resources for applicants.
  • Reminder of approaching deadline for SCAD Challenge.
  • Personal anecdote on the benefit of connecting with faculty during the application process.

Note: The portfolio process at SCAD emphasizes creativity and originality. Students are encouraged to reach out for guidance and utilize SCAD's resources to maximize their success in applications and scholarships.

Full transcript