Portfolio Requirements

Students applying to the illustration emphasis present a portfolio of 10-15 works of art, a written statement, and unofficial transcript(s) from CU Denver and all previous post-secondary educational institutions.

Portfolio Day will take place on the first Friday in April approximately between 12:00pm and 5:00pm (Mountain Time). Faculty review works in person, which must be formatted and presented to the specifications listed below. There is no fee to apply.

Please review the Portfolio Evaluation Criteria Webpage

COMPONENTS OF THE PORTFOLIO

IMAGES

The portfolio must include a minimum of ten creative works (but no more than 15). 

Present six or more artworks completed in FINE 1100 Drawing I, FINE 1400 Two-Dimensional Design, FINE 1500 Three-Dimensional Design and FINE 2405 Introduction to Digital Design. Artwork examples should demonstrate skill in observational drawing, linear perspective and life drawing, as well as an understanding of design principles.

Additional examples (up to five) may be in the form of design, drawing, painting, photography, mixed media and/or printmaking.

WRITTEN STATEMENT

Five printed copies of a one-page (400-500 words) written statement must be provided at the time of review. In the written statement, students should address the following questions:

• Why do you want to study illustration and what goals and expectations do you have regarding a career as an illustrator?
  

• What are your creative strengths, and what areas need further development?
  

• What other accomplishments would you like the committee to know about, such as Dean’s List, GPA, internships, art-related extracurricular activities or relevant professional experience?

COURSE TRANSCRIPTS

These may be official or unofficial transcripts from CU Denver and previous post-secondary institutions. The CU Denver transcript must show any current semester courses. One copy of these must be provided at the time of review.