Photo Doc Day Spotlight: Lani Schuster, Book & Paper Arts

Posted on: April 24, 2008

We realize that you may not know exactly where to begin when it comes time to build your portfolio. Quick word of advice: Start with your content. Does any of your work need to be documented? If so, there are several services that the Portfolio Center offers to help seniors and grad students capture their work. Lani Schuster, an MFA student in the Book & Paper Arts program, utilized the Portfolio Center's Photo Doc Day to get high quality photographs taken of her paper art.

PC: What type of work do you produce?

Lani: I am a Book Artist, Paper Artist and Sculptor.

PC: How do you showcase or promote your work?

Lani: I participate in exhibitions and with the help of the Portfolio Center I will have a website.

PC: What type of information or samples are in your portfolio?

Lani: I include an artist statement along with slides, digital images and samples of my books, handmade paper and sculptures.

PC: How did the Portfolio Center help?

Lani: They have helped in documenting my artwork and have provided tips on how to represent myself as a Fine Artist.

PC: Why do you think displaying / packaging your work is important?

Lani: The only way to get exposure is to show your work. This leads you to making connections with those whom can offer you opportunities you didn't have before.

PC: Anything else you think students should know before putting their portfolio together?

Lani: Although it is an overwhelming task the Portfolio Center will help you step by step and encourage you along the way.

Lani was able to get dozens of photographs of her work by participating in Photo Doc Day. Graduating students needing professional documentation of their garments, products, fine art, and really any 3-D work or even headshots should plan to get it done at the next Photo Doc Day in mid-June during Portfolio Boot Camp.