MFA Graduate Degree Portfolio Prep & Application Advice from Andrew Raftery

[@clovercando]

Ugh I love this channel so so much. I just discovered this last week and have been binge watching all your videos, specifically on color theory and oil painting. Thank you so much for existing lol

[@artprof]

Omg!!! We exist just for that reason, thank you so much for hanging around with us :) - Mia, Art Prof Staff

[@sarahbeancarney]

I found the advice and recommendations from Professor Andrew Raftery very helpful. I really like how he discusses the importance of having the patience and dedication to take something on and explore it in depth. I can see why he is a good teacher and advisor. Thank you for this interview.

[@artprof]

You're very welcome, he is absolutely the best! - Mia, Art Prof Staff

[@NguyenTeaching]

I have come back to this video for the past 5 years and still struggle finding my pathway to drawing. I have gone down different ways chasing a stable career to support my dream. Ironically, I haven’t done anything drawing related yet.

[@neilagangitlog]

❤️❤️❤️ excited for more Andrew raftery videos!

[@amandanorris8]

Oh this is information I desperately need as I look more into the MFA program. Thanks 🙏

[@artprof]

You're so welcome! We hope it all works out :D - Mia, Art Prof Staff

[@richarddillard91]

I have the most random question. When dealing with the portfolio, if there is not a time frame listed, what would you suggest would be the oldest work listed? I am asking as life took me on an adventure and my most recent work hasn't been photographed. So 2015 was the last in my up to date portfolio. I am actively working towards a newer portfolio, but this knowledge would be helpful If I think some of my undergrad work was/is worthy of including. Thank you! Very informative videos.

[@artprof]

Join our Art School Portfolios Group! Ongoing support & critiques, voice sessions with Prof Lieu. Get a chance to connect with other students for $30-$40 monthly. More info: artprof.org/art-school/art-school-portfolios-group/

[@kikak2227]

Amazing video! Wish it was longer!!🥰😩

[@artprof]

Here's our playlist of MFA application help videos if you need it! kzbin.info/aero/PLvt8_pMl6ywl2kqUZXrj-MsPp4NVXy-Mg -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist

[@rustymotionstudio4717]

Helpful information, thank you!

[@sidrazafar967]

I have one question so I'm sending portfolio to art university and they just asked for the pictures nothing else so i just send them Pictures of work without including the concept ? Or I can write concept and details beside the picture And the next question is can i send pictures from different angle as I'm sculpture student I do 3d work?

[@artprof]

Most of the time schools will require an artist statement or a small description of the piece, so I would make sure to double check for those! Feel free to check out this page for tips on how to write an artist statement: artprof.org/art-school/bfa-programs-art-school/how-to-write-an-artist-statement/ - Mia, Art Prof Staff

[@zhussupov89]

Hi! What if I don’t have a bachelor degree in visual arts, but still want to apply MFA painting. There is no one who could give me a recommendation from the sphere.

[@artprof]

You would probably need to take some time becoming part of some sort of art community, maybe through a local or online crit group, volunteering for your local arts organization, or taking a continuing ed class. Every program is different with how strict they are about the recommenders being from art academia. I think there is a fair amount of wiggle room on that point. -Lauryn, Art Prof Teaching Artist

[@KpxUrz5745]

In my experience having graduated an Ivy League MFA program, I recall a number of fellow students who came from other fields (such as religion!) directly into yhe graduate program. Personally I found that quite strange, because how could someone aspire to attain a Masters degree when they have little or no work and background in the field? In my view, the art department appeared to simply be ensuring that they had no vacancies. I have no idea how these students convinced the school that they were reasonable candidates for an MFA.

[@verydrunkcat]

That’s a bit of a strange conclusion to come to, considering the thousands of applicants. No, it is because they have a background in an other field and bringing outside ideas into the discipline is considered important goal, rather than creating an echo chamber.

[@arielle2745]

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