Often a lack of space stifles the ability to look at all the artwork a student creates and therefore they miss out on seeing an overview of their emerging style, plus identifying strengths and areas for improvement. At mid and final portfolio reviews, Create students are able to lay out all their finished pieces in an allotted area and examine it as a body of work.
Portfolio review also allows students to be actively involved in group-based critiques. Critiquing each other's portfolios helps students to explore the creative process and their experience as a developing artist. The process of group critiquing is about finding their creative voice and a balance between compliment & constructive criticism. Students learn that the criticism is never personal – It is about the portfolio of artworks not the artist. Critiquing should always be balanced, neutral and constructive. Group critiques enable students to build skills by being exposed to different styles, options and approaches. It also assists students to push their responses to art beyond the initial "I like it", to questions of 'why?' and 'how?, articulated using art based visual literacy.The Portfolio review whilst initially potentially challenging to some, is an excellent opportunity to build creative confidence.The review process brings together the artworks produced in NCAT Create students' Studio, Digital and Life Drawing classes.
Some students come to us blocked by years of self doubt. After initially letting their inner critic run rampant, they discover when they stand back after setting up their work, that there is a distinct style emerging and that they have come so far. It is often the first time that they begin to consider themselves as an emerging artist - and we are lucky enough to observe that realisation!
Accompanying their portfolio is a written Artist's Statement and in the final review, a creative resume.
Our congratulations go out to all our students. It really is an incredibly impressive sight!
All images ©NCAT Create
