Can you apply to the same school with TWO portfolios?

[TheStranger]

I was just wondering if you can apply to a school using two portfolios of work. I have a set of work that is traditionally approached and another in the works that is much more conceptual in how it's made. I was wondering if I could apply twice to a school the same time. Could I do this? Under the same category, Painting? Or would the only way to do this is by applying to two different discipline at the same school? But basically, can I do it? And if I could, would it look bad as if I didn't know a direction to take?

Edited April 6, 2011 by TheStranger

[Arsolo]

I think it all depends on the program. I know some outline in their application process that you can include different projects in your app which I think would be ideal for you. But I think the best bet is to try and make contact with faculty or students at the places you think you fit best and see what they think. If you can field an in person meeting with someone on the faculty that would be ideal.

Edited April 6, 2011 by Arsolo

[helec2003]

Don't do it.

Figure out what do you want in your grad school program - more traditional or more conceptual or both?

Once you figure that out you can pick a portfolio or you could show 50/50 to show skill level and conceptual capabilities.

[TheStranger]

Don't do it.

Figure out what do you want in your grad school program - more traditional or more conceptual or both?

Once you figure that out you can pick a portfolio or you could show 50/50 to show skill level and conceptual capabilities.

Would it be a good idea to split my portfolio into two different approaches with the same theme (one going slightly more sculptural with material and another using light and projectors though still using painting as the main focus?) Would that look bad or does having two strong thematic approaches viable?

[helec2003]

i think you need to pick your top 10-20 pieces/images no matter what the theme is. I had objects, videos, installations, sound pieces, etc.

I picked my best pieces and tried to have at least two pieces that 'went together' - they want to see a 'body of work'.

two different apps with two different bodies of work will make you seem all over the place and too unsure about who you are as an artist and what you are looking for.

Put the two portfolios together and show your skill and conceptual development.

plus you'll save money and save your letter writers the hassle of filling out two for every school.

It sounds like you want an interdisciplinary program anyway, some diversity in your portfolio will probably be a good thing.

You should talk to your undergraduate faculty and try to attend one of those National Graduate Portfolio days.

good luck!

Would it be a good idea to split my portfolio into two different approaches with the same theme (one going slightly more sculptural with material and another using light and projectors though still using painting as the main focus?) Would that look bad or does having two strong thematic approaches viable?