Letters of Recommendation...HELP!

[addgg4283]

Hi Guys. So of course I am freaking out, as that is the norm when applying for MFAs. I need your opinion. Who are the most appropriate individuals to write your recommendation letters when applying for MFA/MArch programs?

Here's a little background on myself:

I graduated with my BS in Media Studies (emphasis in Advertising) in 2009. I took a few courses in fine arts and graphic design, but did not pursue a minor or double major at the time (was ranked magna cum laude).

I immediately started my MA in Commmunications (thinking it was something that it was not, but I don't believe in quitting so I continued). I will graduate with this in 2011.

I have provided freelance graphic design work since 2006 working heavily in print design and since earlier this year started expanding into exhibition design (which is partially what I want to pursue).

I have worked in-house in a variety of industries (primarily higher education), but starting January 2011 began working through arts institutions. Worked at the Regional Arts Commission until May and at a Musical Theatre company since. My background is primarily marketing design (which I particularly do not favor) and is pursuing a MFA/MArch to expand my designing into exhibition, installation and environmental graphic design.

My supervisor at the Regional Arts Commission, the gallery manager, (and current supervisor since I still provide exhibition designs for each of their shows) has agreed to write me a letter, but I cannot determine who else I should use.

I am strongly considering having a RAC Board Commissioner/Co-founder of Endowment in which I was working under during my tenure and her husband (retired tenure professor at area institution and co-founder of endowment) write me a letter. I was the inaugural recipient of their endowment (they are estastic to write the letter). But, I am concerned about using them at institutions such as SAIC since neither technically worked in the VISUAL arts (commissioner is the founder of a dance studio). I have also designed collateral for this endowment for future applications, collateral for the commissioner's dance studio and developed a proposal of expansion of the endowment (which was greatly received). Would they be good for a recommendation? Would their recommendation be a good stand alone with the Gallery Manager's recommendation for programs such as SAIC that only require two letters?

I unfortunately have not worked with my design instructors since my undergraduate studies and thus they will not be able to speak on my current work. I cannot get a letter from my current supervisor as I just started working for them this year (I will be in my current position for over a year before I start MFA program; should I try to get some of my coworkers to write letters instead?). And, I don't feel like a letter from my MA communication instructors would do anything since none of them have seen my designs and they are more focused on academia within that field.

What should I do? Any suggestions? I personally don't think it is a good idea to use clients as they probably won't have much clout in these MFA programs. They also may be viewed as biased.

Just FYI, I am applying to:

SAIC MFA in Visual Communication Design & MArch in Interior Architecture (3-year program) - requires two letters

University of Chicago MFA - requires three to four letters

University of Illinois Chicago MFA in Graphic Design - requires three letters

Washington University in St. Louis MFA - requires three letters

PLEASE HELP!!!!

[addgg4283]

Thanks so much. I was completely freaking out because i come from a more non-traditional background since I did not graduate with a BFA. I really appreciate your feedback on the matter. Good luck to you as well! Just curious...what programs are you applying to?

[TheStranger]

It is my opinion that the letters of rec should be by those within the art scene.

[Sugartree]

Letters from other artistis, especially established and exhibited artists, can be hugely helpful. Former professors practicing in your field or professors who have attended the school you're applying to can be a great help as well. It doesn't hurt to have a reference from someone who knows you and your character very well but has nothing to do with sculpture, painting or photography. They can make up the difference in speaking to your work ethic and discipline.