This one-week portfolio prep intensive immerses you in creating a focused and unique portfolio for applying to art and design colleges and universities. This summer program condenses our group portfolio prep course, offering lessons that include observational studies through drawing and material exploration, along with independent and personalized projects to help define each student’s approach, preparing you for the next stage in your application process. We’ll sharpen your skills so you stand out! Students will complete 5-10 original works to include in their portfolio. Previous art experience is recommended but not required. We encourage students to sign up for both sessions for maximum benefit.* Ages 15+
KEY INFO
Session 1
June 29 - July 3 (2026)
Monday - Friday
9 am - 4 pm
Session 2
July 6 - July 10 (2026)
Monday - Friday
9 am - 4 pm
MADE WEST PHILLY: 4719 Pine St, Philadelphia, PA 19143
PROJECTS + OBJECTIVES
Establish a visual narrative that expresses who you are
Mark-making and surface applications
Observational drawing techniques and exercises
Still life and value studies
Mixed media and material exploration
Individualized final project
Learn how to document your work
Students will leave with 5-10 pieces to add to their portfolio
RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES
While every student’s chosen mediums may vary, this course will focus on using the following:
1 Canson XL Mix Media Pad, 60 pages white, 9"x12"
1 Drawing Pad, 30 pages white, 18"x24"
1 Drawing Clip Board, 23"x26"
1 Faber-Castell 9000 Set of 12 Graphite Pencils in different grades of softness and hardness
1 pack of 4 Tortillons, medium (for smoothing and blending charcoal)
1 Staedtler 2-Hole Pencil Sharpener
1 Staedtler Mars White Plastic Eraser
END
This one-week portfolio prep intensive immerses you in creating a focused and unique portfolio for applying to art and design colleges and universities. This summer program condenses our group portfolio prep course, offering lessons that include observational studies through drawing and material exploration, along with independent and personalized projects to help define each student’s approach, preparing you for the next stage in your application process. We’ll sharpen your skills so you stand out! Students will complete 5-10 original works to include in their portfolio. Previous art experience is recommended but not required. We encourage students to sign up for both sessions for maximum benefit.* Ages 15+
KEY INFO
Session 1
June 29 - July 3 (2026)
Monday - Friday
9 am - 4 pm
Session 2
July 6 - July 10 (2026)
Monday - Friday
9 am - 4 pm
MADE WEST PHILLY: 4719 Pine St, Philadelphia, PA 19143
PROJECTS + OBJECTIVES
Establish a visual narrative that expresses who you are
Mark-making and surface applications
Observational drawing techniques and exercises
Still life and value studies
Mixed media and material exploration
Individualized final project
Learn how to document your work
Students will leave with 5-10 pieces to add to their portfolio
RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES
While every student’s chosen mediums may vary, this course will focus on using the following:
1 Canson XL Mix Media Pad, 60 pages white, 9"x12"
1 Drawing Pad, 30 pages white, 18"x24"
1 Drawing Clip Board, 23"x26"
1 Faber-Castell 9000 Set of 12 Graphite Pencils in different grades of softness and hardness
