Could you use additional funding to finish a project? Apply for the Albert P. Weisman Award. This matching grant provides funding, up to $4000, to a limited number of undergraduate (60 credit hours or more) and graduate students in a variety of media.
The application deadline is Friday, December 12. To help you prepare, we recommend you attend an upcoming information session. This is your opportunity to get questions answered about the application process and receive tips on how to submit a solid proposal for the Award.
Information Sessions:
Wednesday, Oct. 29 @ 12PM
Thursday, Nov. 6 @ 6PM
Tuesday, Nov. 11 @ 10AM
Thursday, Nov. 20 @ 3PM
All sessions will be held in the Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307. Applications and guidelines are available at www.colum.edu/weisman
Sponsorship: The Albert P. Weisman Award is made possible by the generosity of Tony Weisman, the Weisman committee and the many friends of Albert P. Weisman who donate both time and resources to make this award possible.
Paint For Print Panel | Thursday, November 6, 11am-12:30pm
Please join advertising and design professionals for a discussion on the business of illustration and its role in the design industry. Panel features: John Hendrix with Liz Miller-Gershfeld (Head Art Buyer, Energy BBDO) and Steve Munro (Artist Representative, Munro Campagna). The panel is free and open to the public. Location: Conaway Center, 1st floor, 1104 S. Wabash
Show Off Portfolio Reviews | Thursday, November 6, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Following the Paint for Print panel discussion, students may meet with one or more of the panelists individually to get feedback on their illustration portfolio. Currently enrolled juniors, seniors or grad students of Columbia College Chicago are eligible to participate in the review. For more information or to sign up for the review, please contact the Portfolio Center at 312.369.7280.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
Paint for Print: Contemporary Illustration, Traditional Media Exhibitions and Programming is sponsored by C Spaces in conjunction with the Portfolio Center
The Portfolio Center will take part in “Tips on Tuesdays” sponsored by Multicultural Affairs and offer a session geared to help you understand how to showcase your best work. We’ll discuss various portfolio formats and show examples. This is a great session to attend if you're wondering what a portfolio is, if you need one and how to get started. Open to all students.
Date: Tuesday, October 28
Time: 12PM-1PM
Location: 623 S. Wabash, suite 307
This is a MultiPass event
Team up to: Win Awards. Build Your Portfolio.
student advertising and design competition
Entering student competitions sponsored by creative industry groups and publications can put you on the map. Most of the competitions require that you work in creative teams because in the real world EVERYONE WORKS WITH OTHER CREATIVES ALL THE TIME. And so should you. Your department and the Portfolio Center think that these competitions are so valuable that we'll hook you up with other students to form creative teams and pay your submission fees. You supply the bright ideas and artful execution. Later, when you win some heavyweight awards, we'll bask in your reflected glory.
The competitions that we've singled out for this year include: The One Show Student Competition, D&AD Student Awards, Love Your Body, and Columbia's own Spot Shot
Attend the Kick Off meeting for more information: Tuesday, September 23 @ Noon | 623 S. Wabash, room 307 | 312.369.7280 to RSVP
Brought to you by: The Marketing and Communication, IAM, Art & Design, and Film & Video Departments and the Portfolio Center
2005 International Photographer of the Year Jim Fiscus will show and discuss his work on Tuesday, September 30 at 6PM in 1104 S. Wabash, 8th floor as part of the Art Works Photography Lecture Series. Fiscus is an award-winning advertising and editorial photographer and his work has been featured in Communication Arts Photo Annual, PDN, and Lurzur's Archive.
This session is open to the public. Art Works is sponsored by the Photography Department and the Portfolio Center.
APA Pro Sessions: Kerry Grady
September 8, 2008
7:00PM
Michigan Avenue Apple Store
679 N. Michigan Ave.
Kerry Grady, Principal and founding partner of Grady, Campbell, Inc. has been a designer and teacher over the past 25 years.
Kerry will share his experiences and successes from over the years which include working with clients such as IBM, The University of Chicago, The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Museum of Contemporary Art, The Art Institute of Chicago and many more.
This event is a great one for both design and photography students! Paul Elledge will be there to introduce the lecture.
Mega agency Draft FCB is sending over content director Jake Lambert on September 22 from 12-2pm to review motion graphics reels for freelance positions with the company. Draft FCB is one of the world's largest creative agencies handling campaigns for everyone from Honda to Motorola with offices in North America, Africa, Asia, Europe and beyond. Sorry…advertising print students, this review is only for work that moves. Film, TV, animation and motion design juniors, seniors, grad students and May 2008 grads are eligible to sign-up.
Call 312.369.7280 to sign-up, show up and SHOW OFF.
WHAT IS SHOW OFF? Show Off is a program that gives students a chance to meet one-on-one with professionals during 20-minute appointments. You can use the time to have our guests give you feedback on your work. It's also a good time to discuss general issues about industry expectations. This is a low pressure way for you to practice interviewing, make connections and ease into the professional realm.
Seniors, grad students, recent alumni and (starting this year) juniors can use Web Agent, Columbia’s free web publishing system, to get your best work online.
Attend a workshop, set-up your account, learn more about the system and see sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work. This workshop will be hands-on so feel free to bring work samples with you on CD or USB drive.
Read the Web Agent guidelines then call 312-369-7280 to reserve your seat.
Starting September 9:
Tuesdays - 12pm to 2pm & 2pm to 4pm (these times alternate weekly), 600 S Michigan, room 709
Wednesdays - 12pm to 2pm, 624 S Michigan, room 606 and 4pm to 6pm, 600 S Michigan, room 709
Thursdays - 12pm to 2pm, 623 S Wabash, room 423
Fridays - 12pm to 2pm, 600 S Michigan, room 709
You and a graphic designer in a room for 45 minutes making an aspect of your portfolio better. For free.* Limited spots available. Juniors, seniors, grad students and May ’08 graduates are eligible to participate.
To participate on Thursday, September 25 you MUST RSVP by September 18. Visit the Portfolio Production page to read guidelines, eligibility requirements and get reservation details.
Next Graphic Design Assistance Day dates:
Thursday, October 23 – Register by October 16
Thursday, November 20 – Register by November 13
*Printing not included. Graphic Design Assistance Day is part of Portfolio Production Week brought to you by the Portfolio Center.
Yes. We will arrange for you to have your business card designed. For free*. Need we say more? Oh yeah, only on the dates listed below and sign up early. Limited spots available. Juniors, seniors, grad students and May ’08 graduates are eligible to participate.
To participate on Tuesday, September 23 you MUST RSVP by September 16. Visit the Portfolio Production page to read guidelines, eligibility requirements and get reservation details.
Next Business Card Day dates:
Tuesday, October 21 – Register by October 14
Tuesday, November 18 – Register by November 11
*Printing not included. Business Card Day is part of Portfolio Production Week brought to you by the Portfolio Center.
It's time for Columbia's annual fall semester kick off we all know and love-- Convocation! Be sure to look for the Portfolio Center booth among the crowd of students, organizations and departments. Get there early and you might snag yourself a free tee, button or poster from the Portfolio Center.
Date: Thursday, August 28
Time: 12PM-3PM
Location: Grant Park, Balbo & Columbus Drive
Take a trip with the Portfolio Center to some of the top companies and organizations in Chicago. You’ll experience the working environment, mingle with professionals and engage in conversations about presenting work, portfolios and professionalism. Any student from any major is welcome to attend any of the field trips. Limited spots available. Call 312.369.7280 to reserve your spot.
Fall ’08 Trips:
October 6 - The Onion / CANCELLED /
October 15 - Wall To Wall Recording Studio @ Noon / FULL /
November 12 - Avenue Edit @ Noon
November 20 – Metro Chicago @ 5PM / FULL /
Brought to you by the Portfolio Center in collaboration with Columbia Click.
This form is a good tool to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your portfolio. The form is designed for children's books illustrators specifically, but is a good tool for any illustrator.
http://scottefranson.com/3-books/publishing/analyzeportfolio.html
In general, you want to show that work which best shows off your skills and expertise. If you aren't comfortable with a piece, you're probably better off leaving it out of your graphic design portfolio.
1. Actual samples
Whenever possible, use actual samples. That is, if you did a four-color brochure for a client, put one of the original brochures in your graphic design portfolio rather than an inkjet copy. Anytime you do a job for a client, request extra copies in the print run. Some clients might be willing to part with a few gratis but normally you'd pay for extras yourself. It may be wise to stipulate in your contract how many portfolio or sample pieces you'll receive. Use these in your graphic design portfolio and as non-returnable samples sent to potential clients.
2. Tear sheets
If your work involves items that appear in some other larger publication (such as ads in newspapers or yellow pages or illustrations used in a magazine) get your hands on multiple copies of the original publication. Tear out the page where your work appears.
3. Copies
If you can't get originals then use proofs printed from your digital files to your desktop printer. Or, make the best photocopies you can of the original printed pieces.
4. Photographs
If your work involves designs that are too large or odd-shaped to fit in traditional graphic design portfolios (large boxes, billboards), get the best photographs you can of the finished pieces. You might also want to accompany these photographs with smaller printouts of the digital files you worked from. (We can help you with that. Check out our Photo Doc days!)
5. Screen shots
If your work involves Web design or other non-print designs you can still put together printed portfolios. Make screen shots of the work or print Web pages from your Web browser. Since screen resolution may not always print crisp and clear you may want to include high-resolution printouts of special logos or other graphics you created for screen display.
TIP: Even if the logo or graphics you design are for Web display, start out with a high-resolution version and save it at various stages. You never know when a client will decide they want to use the design in print. And of course, that high-resolution version will look nicer in your printed graphic design portfolio. If you have a large body of work to choose from, your toughest decision is deciding which pieces to include and which to omit. However, when just starting out you may have little — or nothing — to put in your portfolio. Beginner's design portfolios may require a bit more creativity but it can be done. Designers who want to change their focus or who want to fill in gaps in their portfolios can also use the beginner's portfolio tips.
Arranging the Order of Graphic Design Portfolio Pages
Deciding what order to present items in your graphic design portfolio can be a challenge.
1. Best First, Last
One rule of thumb suggests placing your very best items first and last. Unless you are walking them through pages one at time, a typical reading pattern is to glance at the first few samples, then thumb through to the back. The best first, last method ensures clients or employers see you in the best possible light.
2. Group by Type of Publication
One organizational method is to group like items — all business cards, all brochures, all logo designs. Or, if you do multiple pieces for a client then group everything for each client/project together.
3. Group by Skill / Technique
You may choose to group samples by the type of skills required such as placing all four-color work in one area. Grouping by style is another possibility — grouping conservative pieces and technical examples in their own sections of the portfolio.
Your Assignment
Even if you have very little to use, create the beginnings of a graphic design portfolio. Get a folder and start filling it with samples of any existing work you have done. Make up a few pieces if needed. Take what you have and try grouping it in different ways as previously described. Look at what you have and think about the size of portfolio case you will need (even if you don't plan to purchase one yet).
Put in Your Own Identity Pieces
The identity pieces you create for your own business can be a part of your graphic design portfolio. You can even include items that a client might not normally see such as your own custom quote forms (for printers) or job tracking forms.
Put in Personal Design Projects
Do you make your own holiday or birthday cards? Include the best of them in your portfolio. Do you have a personal Web page? Include screen shots or high-resolution print outs of any custom graphics you created for your Web site.
As you produce new pieces for clients (paying or not) replace the less impressive items in your portfolio with the new samples. Graphic design portfolios aren't static creations. They should grow and change as your expertise grows.
Only put the work that you are the most proud of in. DO NOT put average work in your portfolio simply because it's a printed piece or because it was a class assignment. Many young designers make this mistake. It would also help for you to put together a Xeroxed booklet of your sketches. With a young designer, it's sometimes difficult to tell whether their work is more a reflection of the professor, art director or client. Showing your sketches will give a hint of your thought process
Remember to take advantage of our Show Off reviews - a great way to get feedback on your work. Contact Caroline Juhlin @ cjuhlin@colum.edu for more info
As the new semester gears up we are very pleased to welcome our new neighbor and BFF, Christie Anderson. Christie has just been hired at the College Advising Center and is available to assist with questions related to career development. She helps both students exploring career paths, and provides assistance with resumes, cover letters, interviewing skills, and job search strategies. Contact her directly at 312.369.6985 to schedule an appointment, or you can send quick questions via email.
Software can be expensive. When you don’t have the funds to purchase the software needed to manipulate your work, be it audio, video, and or image based, what do you do? The answer is not to obtain an illegal copy of that software needed, but to look for a free legit alternative. A great place to find these options is by using the internet. You will want to do a search for “open source software” or you check these two links to see what they have to offer. The use of open source software is a great alternative plus it can save you money and have the same results as almost any commercial software.
Q: What kind of software will I find?
A: DVD ripping, video conversion, audio conversion, graphic/photo editor, and much more.
Here are two great resources:
The Portfolio Center and Columbia College Chicago as a whole does not provide technical support to open source programs that are available. The Portfolio Center is simple providing information on free legit software. If you choose to download and use any of the open source software you are responsible for reading and adhering to the user agreements provided by the creator of the software.
Columbia College has tons of student organizations. In addition to school work, involving yourself in an organization is practically a must in developing your body of work. The listing will look good on your resume and there may be activities initiated by the group that could be used in your portfolio.
While being active in student groups is a great start; don’t limit yourself to campus connections. Remember: you ultimately want to be a professional so start smoozing with the big dogs (or mid-size dogs) now. Nearly every industry has a professional membership organization. If you’re unsure of the exact names of associations relevant to your interest; usually a general internet search with the industry followed by associations, such as “film associations,” will bring up either several direct links or a link with a compiled list.
Joining a professional organization gives you access to numerous resources that may be offered through the association, including industry insights, educational seminars, and social networking events. Plus, once you begin making contacts you’ll have more leverage to get the scoop on jobs, informational interviews and informal portfolio reviews. The best time to network is before you need the contacts.
If you're looking for a quick and easy way to showcase your visual art, why not consider a blog? More and more artists are using a blog format because it is so accessible to those of us who may not be (ahem) "technologically inclined." If you can write an email, you can build a blog, which makes it a great solution to the problem of going DIY with your web portfolio.
You can sign up for a free account at someplace like Blogger or an inexpensive service like TypePad . Once you've set yourself up, upload your images according to instructions, along with a short text blurb that includes the title and date of the piece. You can even include a short sentence or two about the piece to give the viewer more insight.
The tagging feature allows you to categorize the work by series, mediums, years created or however else you feel like organizing your work. Plus, all blogs are equipped with a handy dandy "About Me" feature which is the perfect space for an artist's statement. Anyone who is interested in following your work can sign up for the RSS feed so they'll be emailed every time you upload something new.
If you choose the blog route, be sure you're ready to keep it updated; a blog with nothing new looks unprofessional after about a month. Also, while it's tempting to include an entry here or there about someone who drove you crazy on the El or a new taco place you're nuts for, don't. Don't clutter up the space with ramblings. If you must express that side of your creative force, build a second blog; keep your professional blog for your work.
Of course, we here at the Portfolio Center are happy to help seniors and grad students set up a full-blown website portfolio through Portfolio Production. But, in the meantime, consider establishing a web presence this way. It's a great way to get your work out there.
Portfolios don't just make themselves you know. Some assembly is required. And while the Portfolio Center is available to help senior students document, design and produce some aspects of their portfolios we don't provide printing, duplication or packaging materials. But we compiled a list of companies commonly used for portfolio related supplies and services; including portfolio books, web domain registration, CD/DVD duplication and printing. Check out our materials and service vendors list and imagine all the possibilities for presenting your body of work.
Pulling your work together for the first time for inclusion in a portfolio can be daunting. But you need to buck up and get it done. Then, get your portfolio in front of others and welcome any feedback on how your work is being received. Rachal Duggan, an art & design major, had a huge body of work in illustration. Before this past spring, she'd never organized or presented that work to anyone that could actually hire her. Rachal used the Portfolio Center's Show Off program to work through her presentation jitters.
PC: What industry do you want to work in?
Ideally, I'd like to work within commercial illustration.PC: What’s in your portfolio?
My portfolio is a series of drawings I recently completed.
PC: How are you showing your work to others?
I participated in a show off (portfolio) review at the Portfolio Center, with Langley Creative, an established illustration agency. Receiving professional feedback is invaluable. The Portfolio Center has industry contacts that are willing to come in and sit down with students.
PC: Why do you think receiving feedback on your work is important?
After countless critiques in the classroom, a working professional's advice is vital. From that, you can take what they say and then use it to fine-tune your portfolio.
PC: Anything else you think is important for other students to know?
It can be incredibly intimidating to meet with a professional and peel open your book. After you try it, you gain confidence in the representation of yourself. After one meeting, you'll be ready for several more.
---Rachal worked with a designer to layout her illustrations for inclusion in a portfolio that she can use both in print form and as a PDF. If you're interested in creating your print book, the Portfolio Center will host "DIY Print Book Workshop" and "Clean Up Your Image Day" events during Portfolio Boot Camp during June 9-13.
SAVE THE DATES FOR PORTFOLIO BOOT CAMP! Shape up your body of work during this week long program especially for recent grads. You’ll have the opportunity to receive feedback on how to present your work and tighten up your portfolio presentation through production services. December 2007 & May 2008 graduates are eligible.
Full schedule with dates, times and registration information is coming soon but here are a few of the programs that will be offered:
Portfolio Web Workshop / Move your work onto the world wide web by attending a tutorial session for Portfolio Web, Columbia’s free website publishing system. You’ll have the chance to set-up an account plus we’ll show you sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work.
Photo Doc Day / Get high quality photos of your portfolio samples taken by advanced photography students. For fashion design, product design, flatwork and paintings, headshots, sculpture, packaging . . . anything 3D…if it fits in the door, we'll get it shot for you.
Covered: CD/DVD Package Design Day / Is your work covered? If not, we’ll pair you with a graphic designer to create a cover and disc label for your work. Sending out your film, reel, demo, aircheck or resume tape on CD or DVD with your name scrawled in Sharpie just won’t do...
Short Cuts: Reel & Resume Tape Editing / Bring in your footage* and meet with an editor who will cut a professional reel or resume tape for you. Open to film & video, television, and broadcast journalism recent grads ready to assemble their final reel. *Note: All footage must either be in QuickTime (.MOV), DVCAM, or MiniDV format.
DIY Print Books / Learn how to create and update your print book or press kit. We’ll discuss resources and techniques relating to layouts, image usage and font selection all geared to give you tools for do-it-yourself application.
Clean Up Your Image Day / Ready to organize your work into a PDF, print book or press kit? You’ll have the chance to work with a designer on layout assistance, font selection/type treatment, image cleanup and image manipulation.
We're opening up our doors and giving current Portfolio Web account users several chances to come in, ask questions and continue the plight to online portfolio greatness. If you need individual attention, can't quite get your formatting right, or maybe you can't decide on which design works best with your content then this is the time to resolve those issues.
Schedule:
Monday, May 12 / 12-2PM & 4-6PM
Tuesday, May 13 / 11AM-1PM & 4-6PM [4-6PM session will be held in room 419 of 623 S. Wabash]
Wednesday, May14 / 12-2PM & 3-5PM
Thursday, May 15 / 10AM-12PM & 3-5PM (last chance before Industry Night)
Friday, May 16 / No walk-in hours...you should be at Manifest anyway
Location: 623 S. Wabash room 307 unless otherwise noted above.
Open only to senior and grad students who currently have an account. If you'd like a free web account and you are a senior or grad student please give us a ring at 312-344-7280 for more information.
Back by popular demand: Portfolio Web Workshop Week. Seniors this is your chance to move your work into the world wide web. Attend one of the Portfolio Center's web site tutorial sessions during May 5-9 that will introduce you to Portfolio Web, Columbia’s free website publishing system. You’ll have the chance to set-up an account and we’ll show you sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work. This session will be hands-on so feel free to bring work samples with you.
Walk-ins welcome, but pre-registration is encouraged to ensure you get a seat. Sign-up by calling 312.344.7280. Open to seniors only.
Monday, May 5
4-6PM / 600 S. Michigan, Room 709
Wednesday, May 7
4-6PM / 600 S. Michigan, Room 709
Friday, May 9
Noon-2PM / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709
If you currently have an account and just need some help figuring next steps please come by the Portfolio Center with your questions during Portfolio Web Walk-In Hours.
We're opening up our doors and giving current Portfolio Web account users several chances to come in, ask questions and continue the plight to online portfolio greatness. If you need individual attention, can't quite get your formatting right, or maybe you can't decide on which design works best with your content then this is the time to resolve those issues.
Schedule:
Monday, May 5 / 1-3PM
Tuesday, May 6 / Sorry...no walk-in hours
Wednesday, May 7 / 3-5PM
Thursday, May 8 / 3-5PM
Friday, May 9 / 10AM-12PM
Location: 623 S. Wabash room 307
Open only to senior and grad students who currently have an account. If you'd like a free web account and you are a senior or grad student please give us a ring at 312-344-7280 for more information.
Industry Night is a series of 5 campus wide receptions that happen on May 15 (the night before Manifest) that will give graduating students access to working arts & media professionals. Over 250 professionals have RSVPed so far. This is your chance to trot out your portfolio, wave your resume around and pass out those business cards. It’s called networking. And it’s vital to getting started in your profession. But maybe you need a little bit more information or some encouragement...that's fine...hop on over to the Portfolio on Wednesday, May 7. We'll be giving tips on what to bring, how to dress, and hearty handshake demos between 11AM-4PM, every hour on the hour.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Here is a quick tutorial on how to resize your images for the Portfolio Web system using Photoshop.
Go to File > Open… and select the image to be resized.
Go to Image > Image Size… a pop-up window will display your image size and resolution information.
Make sure that the Pixel Dimension fields are chained together in order to keep your image proportion correct. (If the Pixel Dimension fields are NOT chained together, then place a check mark in the box next to Constrain Proportions)
Then In the Image Size window you will NEED to lower the resolution to 72.
In the drop down box located at the bottom of the Image Size window you will want to choose”bicubic sharper (best for reduction)”
In the Pixel Dimension field lower the width to 600 pixels* (make sure you have selected pixels NOT Percent in the drop down box that is to the right of the width field) then press OK. *Remember NOT to exceed 600 pixels wide nor 800 pixels high.
Go to File > Save As… and select JPEG as your file type and choose a destination for your file. Remember to give your file a different name, so you avoid writing over and losing your original file.
Choose JPEG from the drop down box. **IMPORTANT** Rename your file so you do not loose the original file.
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.
On Tuesday, April 29 from 1PM-4PM DuPuis Group Creative Director Ivana Dzadzic will meet and advise graphic design students with an interest (and preferably samples) in consumer branding and package design. DuPuis is one of a handful of Chicago design firms specializing in brand identity design for consumer product clients like Nestle, Dole, Sony and Mattel. Juniors, seniors, grad students and December '07 grads are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
[Note: This portfolio review was originally scheduled for Wednesday, April 23]
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Mark your calendar for Portfolio Boot Camp: Workshops & Production for New Grads to be held this June. We can't give you specifics on which professionals will be here or give you the exact times / dates of programs yet, BUT we can tell you that if you're graduating in May and still unsure of how to pull your work together then you should plan to attend.
During this week you’ll have the opportunity to receive feedback from professionals and tighten up your portfolio presentation through production services. More details coming soon about how you can shape up your body of work during Portfolio Boot Camp. Check back...and if you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and let us know you're graduating. We'll put you on our mailing list.
We're spotlighting some of the talented soon to be or recent grads of Columbia and their work...as well as services they've used through the Portfolio Center (of course). Blake Wells, Audio Arts & Acoustics major, recently set-up his text-based portfolio using Portfolio Web. He shared with us his approach to showcasing his skills online.
PC: What industry do you want to work in?
Blake: Acoustical Consulting
PC: How are you showcasing or promoting your work?
Blake: Scanning documents from previous classes and a lab notebook. Displaying my resume and other attributes that will show that I am qualified for the position I'm applying for.
PC: What type of information or samples are in your portfolio?
Blake: Written reports, a lab notebook, and a preview of a final project that is still in the works.
PC: How did the Portfolio Center help or what services did you receive through us?
Blake: I was able to create a website that potential employers could navigate to in order to learn more about the Acoustics program at Columbia and the work that I am able to produce. It also created a place for people to see my resume if they lost it.
PC: Why do you think displaying / packaging your work is important?
Blake: It's important for people to see what kind of work I am able to do after my education at Columbia. The Acoustics program is unique and many people do not know much about it. Showing my work reflects the caliber of the school and what I can offer to potential employers.
PC: Anything else you think students should know before putting their portfolio together?
Blake: Know what to show, and what not to show. Keep it simple and to the point. Don't overwhelm your audience with too much info, but put your best foot forward. Try to be as creative as possible, but still maintain a professional atmosphere. Have reasons for why you did what you did because interviewers will reference things you display in the portfolio and have questions for you about it.
-----Blake used Portfolio Web, Columbia's free web publishing system for seniors & grad students, to get his work online. If you're a senior or grad student interested in moving your work to the world wide web check out an upcoming Portfolio Web Workshop during April 28-May2.
Seniors: Get your work online, in time for graduation. Attend one of the Portfolio Center's web site tutorial sessions during April 28-May 2 that will introduce you to Portfolio Web, Columbia’s free website publishing system. You’ll have the chance to set-up an account and we’ll show you sample sites that use text, images, video and audio to showcase portfolio work. This session will be hands-on so feel free to bring work samples with you.
Walk-ins welcome, but pre-registration is encouraged to ensure you get a seat. Sign-up by calling 312.344.7280. Open to seniors only.
Monday, April 28
10AM-12PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 921 - Art & Design Lab
4PM-6PM / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709 – TV Lab
Tuesday, April 29
10AM-12PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 921 - Art & Design Lab
12PM-2PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 307 - Portfolio Center / Portfolio Web walk-ins. Only for students who currently have accounts and need assistance.
4PM-6PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 419 – IAM Lab
Wednesday, April 30
10-Noon / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709 – TV Lab
4PM-6PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 419 – IAM Lab
Thursday, May 1
10AM-12PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 921 - Art & Design Lab
3PM-5PM / 623 S. Wabash, Room 307 - Portfolio Center / Portfolio Web walk-ins. Only for students who currently have accounts and need assistance.
Friday, May 2
12PM - 2PM / 600 S. Michigan Avenue, Room 709 – TV Lab
Design basics are about layout, identity, and typography. The Grillo Group is known for their excellent work in each area. Senior Designer Gabrielle Schubart will visit campus on Wednesday, April 30 from 3PM-5PM to meet graphic design students, talk about their portfolios and provide advice on presenting a body of work designed to gain entry into the corporate branding, identity and publication industry within the design field. Juniors, seniors and December '07 grads are eligible to participate.
NOTE: This review was previously scheduled for April 9. If you're interested in participating on this new date, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
WHO: You + Your Portfolio Samples + Working Professionals
WHY: Feedback + Conversation + Networking
WHAT: Resumes + Business Cards + Websites
Graduating seniors and graduating grad students are invited to attend the events listed below that will host the kinds of arts & media professionals you hope to work with in the near future.
WHERE:
>Advertising & Design Showcase / 4PM to 7PM / Conaway Center 1st Floor, 1104 S. Wabash / Advertising Artists, Copywriters, Illustrators, Photographers, Marketing, PR, Motion Graphics, Interactive Arts & Media and Filmmakers
>Art Expo / 5PM to 8PM / At galleries across campus (tba) / Fine Artists including: Painters, Photographers, Book & Paper, Interactive, Sculptors and Visual Arts Managers
>Journalism Reception / 5PM to 8PM / J Department, 2nd Floor, 33 East Congress / Writers, Broadcast Journalists, and Photojournalists
>Film & Video Reception* / 5PM to 8PM / Film Row Cinema, 8th Floor, 1104 S Wabash / Producers, Directors, Cinematographers, Editors, and Screen Writers / *By invitation only.
>All Access Night Club* / 6PM to 10PM / Location TBA / Music Business: managers, promoters, journalists, photographers / *By invitation only.
>ASL / 4PM to 7PM / Ferguson Theater/Tour Center, 1st Floor, 600 S. Michigan / ASL graduating seniors
New info will be posted soon. Talk to your department’s Manifest Liaison for details. Do the Indu Twist.
Jim Davis, Production Manager for Evanston's Next Theater, will be on campus Friday, April 18 from 1PM-3PM to meet with and review theater design student portfolios. Jim has over 125 credits on his theatrical resume from theaters here in Chicago as well as St. Louis and New York City, working as a stage manager, scenic designer, lighting designer and props master. Students can use their appointments to begin discussing how to present their work or anything else. Juniors, seniors, grad students and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
[This Show Off was canceled due to a conflict with a theater department program.]
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Join professional graphic designers, illustrators and your fellow design students for a discussion about building effective design portfolios. This will be a very informative session for all student levels.
Check back for update on guests.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
When thinking about posting video clips online it's important to know which formats are best suited for the system where your website is being hosted. Below is a list of the accepted video file formats that can be used with the Web Agent. Note: Video files must NOT exceed 30mb in file size. (Files that exceed the 30mb limit will not upload to your website)
Accepted File types: asf, asx, avi, divx, dv, dvx, m4v, mov, mp4, mpeg, mpg, qt, wmv, 3g2, 3gp, 3ivx and 3vx
You’re graduating soon and it’s time to start thinking about the future. Connections. Opportunities to meet industry people. Critical feedback on your work. AIGA Chicago’s spring portfolio review is the forum for current graphic design professionals to review your work. Over 20 professionals will be in attendance.
WHEN: Wednesday, April 2, 6PM-9PM
WHERE: 623 S. Wabash, 1st Floor, Hokin Annex
Space is very limited so register now! There is a $10 registration fee that will be reimbursed upon your arrival at the review. If you are a student AIGA member you must register online. If you are not a member please contact Caroline Juhlin at cjuhlin@colum.edu to register.
If you have additional questions, please contact AIGA Chicago Education Chair, Richard Zeid at RZDesign@aol.com
Sharon Langley and Jean Blasco of Langley Creative will be on campus Thursday , April 3 from 2PM-5PM to review body of work and give feedback and advice on developing a professional illustration portfolio. Reps are to illustrators what agents are to actors. It’s pretty hard to find any meaningful work without one. While unlikely any emerging illustrator would get signed by an established rep like Sharon, this review will help you understand how to build and package a body of work worthy of representation. Juniors, seniors, grad students and December '07 grads are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Photography and illustration students have an opportunity to have their portfolio reviewed and get feedback on their body of work on Wednesday, April 10 from 1PM-3PM from artist agent Jodie Zeitler. Jodie reps many talented artists whose sum of work spans tabletop, landscape, portrait and illustration for clients such as Leo Burnett, ESPN Magazine, Jive Records and American Girl Place. Juniors, seniors, grad students and December '07 grads are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Product design students have the opportunity to have their portfolio reviewed and get feedback on their body of work on Wednesday, April 2 from 2PM-4PM. Tangent’s design director and studio manager Bryan Fox will visit to advise product design students on designing a portfolio that truly showcases their talent. Bryan has over ten years of design/development experience in the areas of consumer products, transportation styling and accessories, and mobile entertainment. Juniors, seniors and December '07 grads are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Come network with Columbia talent from all majors on Tuesday, March 11 from 3PM-8PM. The Student Programming Board is gathering various student organizations, individuals and even the Portfolio Center for a day (or rather evening) geared to celebrate young professionals. That means you.
There will be free food, speed networking, and motivational speeches given by Joe Roberts [Ecenter AEMM Director] and Rahim Fazel [Entrepreneur]. Location: Hokin Annex, 1st floor 623 S Wabash.
Contact SPB at spb@colum.edu or 312-344-7188 for more information.
This event is a collaboration between the Student Programming Board (SPB), Click, E-club and Portfolio Center.
When it comes to your body of work, there’s no question that what’s in style is having a fashion portfolio that represents your talent in a professional manner. You’ll have three chances to join your fellow design students and industry professionals for a discussion about your work, building a portfolio and how you can show it off. Open to all students.
Dates:
Thursday, March 6 @ 9AM – Guest: Karen Cooper, SheComplete and Katy Klein of BellyDance Maternity
Monday, March 10 @ 1PM - Guest: Dieter Kirkwood, DieterBennet
Tuesday, March 11 @ 11AM - Guest: Dieter Kirkwood, DieterBennet and Lee Allison
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Students with a body of work focused on interactive, industrial, interior, packaging or 3D design are invited to Show Off their portfolios on Thursday, March 6 between 2PM-4PM to Matt Kuttan, Creative Director for Saatchi & Saatchi X. Matt is interested in meeting with students who “think outside the box.” The company is looking to round up talent for their Shopper Marketing (a unique approach to designing store environments targeted to consumers) team so bring your resume! Columbia College juniors, seniors, grad students and recent graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Saatchi & Saatchi X’s Worldwide Creative Director Carlos Sanchez and Chicago-based Creative Director Matt Kuttan will be on campus Thursday, March 6 at 12:30PM to discuss with students a new concept called Shopper Marketing that agencies and marketers are raving about.
Shopper Marketing evaluates various shopping situations and finds ways to improve the consumer’s experience by designing interactive, easy to navigate environments using brand strategies.
Saatchi & Saatchi X is one of the pioneers of Shopper Marketing. With over 10 years of turning 'Shoppers into Buyers,' the company creates intuitive shopping environments that increase purchase behavior. Come find out how you can get in on this cutting edge trend.
Matt Kuttan will also stick around after the session to review student portfolios. Limited appointments available. Sign-up by calling 312-344-7280 to ensure you get in.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Having spent two decades building, managing and inspiring both creative and multi-disciplined teams, Carlos now leads the creative vision for Saatchi & Saatchi X. Most recently, as Chief Marketing Officer at Shop Bistro, a multi-channeled shopping brand with global ambitions, Carlos was instrumental in shaping their brand for the future by creating an entertaining and universally appealing shopping experience for a global marketplace.
His creative career began as Senior Designer at the highly awarded Wolff Olins London, where he designed and implemented corporate identities, lead conceptual development and client presentations, and lead project teams and new business pitches. In the early 1990s, he joined a young start-up called Diefenbach Elkins as Design Director. His career continued to gain momentum when he joined Landor as Creative Director and was charged with creating, defining, and building a new corporate identity practice. He later cofounded St. Aubyn with a simple holistic approach: to create branding programs that are as strategically smart as they are creatively compelling. His next three years were spent as Executive Creative Director at Interbrand, where he championed and evolved the integration of strategy and creative, nurtured existing and new practices, and cultivated winning relationships within the Omnicom network.
He has been a catalyst for companies worldwide to define, express, and leverage who they are through their brands. Throughout his creative leadership career, Carlos managed corporate, consumer, and innovations branding for a roster of globally respected clients including AT&T, Ameritrade, eBay, CNN, GE, P&G, Timex, Heinz, J&J, 7UP, International Paper, Merck, and others.
Whether you just have an idea or already own a business – no matter what stage your business is at, the Arts Entrepreneurship Center (Ecenter) of the Columbia College Chicago AEMM Department, is here to help YOU! THE ECENTER IS YOUR ONE-STOP RESOURCE!
We are pleased to announce that the Ecenter now has a business specialist to provide technical assistance FREE to all Columbia students seeking self-employment in the Arts. You will gain valuable business advice, access to business plan reviews, and guidance to help you create a business plan.
Consultations are by appointment only, Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 am – 3pm.
Call 312-344-8620 for an appointment or e-mail ecenter@colum.edu for more information.
On Thursday, March 27 you'll have an opportunity to get high quality photos of your portfolio samples taken by advanced photography students for FREE! Fashion design, product design, flatwork and paintings, headshots, sculpture, packaging . . . if it fits in the door, we'll get it shot for you.
To participate you MUST RSVP for an appointment by March 19. Call 312-344-7280 to sign-up. All RSVPs will be asked to submit additional information about their samples in order to participate.
Here's what else you need to know:
-Juniors, seniors, grad students and December '07 graduates are eligible to participate.
-The photo shoot will take place at 72 E. 11th Street, 6th floor
-Appointments are 30 minutes and take place between 10AM-5PM
-The maximum number of items you may bring is 10. If you need special props and/or special materials, you must bring them.
-After the shoot, we'll provide you with a CD of your images.
-This is the only date this semester that this service will be offered.
-Limited spots available so sign-up now!
[CANCELLED: Why? Because not many of you signed-up...no sign-ups, no Show Off]
Midwest Teen Sex Show is a comedic, semi-educational video podcast featured bi-monthly. MWTSS has 65000 subscribers through iTunes making it one of the most popular podcast on the market. Following a recent swell in media attention the creators are looking to expand and need interns with production, marketing, design and PR know-how. If you have been looking for a great ground floor company to get in with...this could be your chance. Sign-up to meet with the creators on Tuesday, March 11 between 2PM and 4PM. Columbia College juniors, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
[CANCELLED: Why? Because not many of you signed-up...no sign-ups, no Show Off]
The Viaduct Theater is looking for interns that are invested performing arts and music. Both design and more business minded students are encouraged to sign up, receive feedback on work and apply for an internship if interested. Viaduct Theater is a non-profit multidisciplinary venue that exists to build and promote theater, film, art, and music in Chicago through diverse activities including producing plays, screening films, and presenting events in art and music. Columbia College juniors, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
UR Chicago and En Prise Entertainment will meet with design, marketing and management students on Wednesday, March 5 from 10AM to Noon to give feedback on student work and scout for interns. UR Chicago is looking for a design intern and En Prise Entertainment (which owns UR) is looking for a marketing/AEMM intern. Both interns would work for both entities. In case you don’t know UR Chicago is a free monthly arts, lifestyle and entertainment magazine based in the Windy City. En Prise Entertainment has a reputation for being on the cutting edge of the music scene and organizes, promotes, and hosts successful, music-centric events in Chicago.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
VSA Partners is one of the best design firms (if not the best) in Chicago. Jessi Pervola, interactive team member and Columbia alum, will review interactive and print design books on Tuesday, March 18 from 6PM-8PM. VSA is responsible for recreating the Harley-Davidson brand to wide acclaim in the nineties. Since then they've opened up shop in several other cities and claim some of the best identity work produced for both print and interactive media. Columbia College junior, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Flameshovel Records will be on campus from 1PM to 3PM to provide graphic design and AEMM majors with feedback on their portfolios and to scout for interns. This Chicago label was formed in 2001 and has since put out 43 releases, including releases by Maritime, Chin Up Chin Up, Make Believe, Oxford Collapse, Russian Circles and Bound Stems. Columbia College junior, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
Call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
First impressions count! Be sure you are in the know about best practices for creating your resume and portfolio package. On Tuesday, March 4 at noon Multicultural Affairs is teaming up with the Portfolio Center and Writing Center to cover some basic things to consider about putting together job search must have materials. You'll also be introduced to on-campus resources that can assist you.
Open to all Columbia College students. Sponsored by the Office of Multicultural Affairs with presentations from the College Advising Center and the Portfolio Center.
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Business Card Day is a chance for juniors, seniors, recent grads & grad students to get hooked up with a graphic designer who will create a knock-out business card design especially for you. You can’t beat the price (it’s free) and professional quality is guaranteed. Network in style.
To participate Wednesday, March 5 you MUST RSVP by February 25 Call 312-344-7280 to RSVP. All RSVPs will be asked to submit additional information about their project in order to participate.
Next business card design dates:
Wednesday, April 2 – Register by March 24
Wednesday, May 7 – Register by April 28
Brought to you by The Portfolio Center
Whether you’re creating a design identity for yourself or for a client; effective branding is a key element to having your work remembered. On Wednesday, February 27 at 6PM several design professionals will discuss how to assemble a portfolio that showcases your best branding work. Open to all Columbia College students and alumni.
Guests: Dave Weik [Co-founder and Creative Director at Studio UKV]; Bill Ferdinand [Founder, zun partners]; and Nick Staal [Upshift Creative]
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Starting from scratch, Bill is a self-taught designer who has constructed a life where design exists not to decorate, but to make things work.
Apt that he was born in the hard-working city of Chicago—a city rich in design history—home to the New Bauhaus, Container Corporation, Sullivan and Mies van der Rohe. He began his career in the fashion industry, designing hats for celebrities such as Sylvester Stallone to race car legend Richard Petty. With a true love for nature and organic materials, he founded an architectural landscaping company—one of the earliest to utilize native and indigenous plants in their designs. From furniture to interiors to architecture, Bill’s contextual design approach spans disciplines with elegance and repose.
As founder of zünpartners, Bill’s enthusiasm for good design has been translated into award-winning work—garnering numerous industry accolades, including being archived in the Society of Typographic Arts (STA) permanent collection. zün’s concepts have been put to work for smart companies large and small: Deloitte & Touche, Arthur Andersen, Baker & McKenzie, Bracewell & Giuliani. Just as design with intent works across a variety of disciplines, zün puts it into practice across a myriad of applications: corporate identity, brand application, web, annual reports, company publications, packaging and promotional—both printed and digital.
Design isn’t just something Bill does, it’s a way of life. He completed a historically accurate and meticulous restoration of his Frank Lloyd Wright home in Oak Park, which has been featured in multiple publications and television. His collection of folk and outsider art is extensive, including works by artists that are on exhibit in museums around the world. Among Bill’s personal interests are motorcycles, in particular taking road trips across the real America—winding through rural areas and small towns, talking with people along the journey. Off his bike, Bill enjoys excursions with his family to the Rocky Mountains.
Availability: Varies
All sessions are by appointment only. If you're interested to meet with an Industry Expert call 312.369.7280 for details.
Q: Whoa there. What are Industry Expert sessions again?
A: It's a service provided by the Portfolio Center that pairs students with working professionals in their field. An Industry Expert helps you understand what materials to put in a portfolio (and what to leave out), how to package and present your work, and how you'll know when it's ready for prime time.
Sundance Institute has selected Columbia College to participate in a special research initiative that allows students to help influence and generate ideas for new, meaningful programming. Sundance will be on campus on Wednesday January 20 to conduct a focus group with undergraduate non-film majors at 3PM. The session will be approximately 90 minutes and all students participating will be asked to fill out a quick multiple choice survey prior to the session (sent via email after confirmed registration). Space is limited to 12 people. Students participating in the focus group will receive a $15 iTunes Gift Card, Chicago-style pizza, and refreshments. Interested in participating? Call 312-344-7280 by February 13 to reserve a spot.
The Sundance Institute, a national non-profit, most popular for the annual Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah also provides a series of professional training labs for artists (screenwriting, directing, playwriting, documentary film editing and music composition for film), programs for public audiences in New York and Utah, over $1M in direct artist grants as well as extensive free online content.
Michelle Nolan’s photography work spans editorial to travel to advertising assignments. Her visual narratives almost always contain people as the subject. Her pictures are simply intriguing. Michelle will review portfolios for photography and fashion design students on Tuesday, February 26 from 1PM-3PM. Columbia College junior, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Zach Dodson is an active member of many different arts communities, forging connections between the worlds of design and literature. In 2004, he founded the bleachedwhale design studio. His Art Direction credits include shelter, No Touching and MAKE: A Chicago Literary Magazine. His design has appeared in Newcity, Punk Planet, Resonance, TimeOut Chicago, Mule, Young Chicago Authors and Bagazine.
In 2005, he founded featherproof books, an indie publisher based in Chicago, dedicated to the small-press ideals of finding fresh, urban voices. featherproof publishes downloadable mini-books, and perfect-bound, full-length works of fiction, including novels by Columbia graduates Brian Costello and Todd Dills. He also serves as managing editor for the Printers’ Ball, a yearly celebration of print in Chicago.
Zach’s hybrid typo/graphic novel, boring boring boring boring boring boring boring, is due from featherproof in Fall 2008. Excerpts have appeared, or are forthcoming, in such publications as The M Review, 55 Words, THE2NDHAND, Why Vandalism?, Weird Deer, and Take the Handle. The audio version will be co-released on Flameshovel Records. In 2007 he was named to Newcity’s Top 50 Literary Figures in Chicago.
Availability: Varies
All sessions are by appointment only. If you're interested to meet with an Industry Expert call 312.369.7280 for details.
Q: Whoa there. What are Industry Expert sessions again?
A: It's a service provided by the Portfolio Center that pairs students with working professionals in their field. An Industry Expert helps you understand what materials to put in a portfolio (and what to leave out), how to package and present your work, and how you'll know when it's ready for prime time.
Thanks to our dear Art Buying friends at EnergyBBDO, we have received a slew of source books and promotional pieces.
Check out how photographers, illustrators, and their reps and stock houses get their work in front of advertising agencies. Come to the Portfolio Center and ask to see some samples. Stay a while, hang out and review this work. We even have some extras, so just ask if there is something you may want to take home with you!
Contact Caroline Juhlin for more information at cjuhlin@colum.edu or 312.344.7281
McDonald’s Corporation has several open positions in their Creative Services department-- and they want to hire Columbia students. Company reps will be on campus Thursday, February 21 from 11AM to 1PM to meet with film, TV, motion and graphic design students interested in learning more about production job opportunities. This is also a good way to receive general feedback on your work. Columbia College junior, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate. By appointment only.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Todd and Jill of Todd T Designs will review graphic design portfolios on Thursday, February 21 from 10AM to Noon. Todd T Designs range from logos to packaging and branding. The company will be scouting for an intern so bring your best work and a resume. Columbia College junior, seniors, and December ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
One of the most misconceptions regarding purchasing and registering a domain name is that a majority of people think that they need to have a website first before they can even purchase and register a domain name.
The reality is NO and it is highly recommended that you purchase and register your domain name first. The reason that this is recommended is that by the time a website is done being designed and launched onto the Internet Super Highway there is a very good chance that someone else already purchased and registered the domain name you wanted regardless on how unique the domain name might be.
For tips on choosing a good domain name read an article written by Christopher Heng of sitewizard.com
Congratulations to the 2008 Albert P. Weisman Award recipients. Over thirty-five undergraduate and graduate students will be awarded funding for projects in areas that include AEMM, dance, fashion design, film, interdisciplinary arts, photography and theater.
2008 Recipients:
Matt Austin, Brooke Berger, Jean Bevier, Margaret Rose Breffeilh, Rachel Buck, James Cackovic, Asher Danzige, Kirstin Demer, Stephen DeSantis, Loni Diep, Dalila Droege, Kaelyn Garcia, Brandon Graham, Niki Grangruth, Allison Grant, Jessica Hannah, Yu-Ting Hsueh, Sean Jourdan, Joseph Lappie, Lisa Lindvay, Zach Litwack, Curtis Mann, Nick Martin, Molly Mae McCarty, Emily Miller, Angel Nava, Heyjin Oh, Kaitlyn Parks, Jason Reblando, Brian Schodor, Abraham Velazquez Tello, Eric Turner, Terttu Uibopuu, Marie Ullrich, Sarah Louise Walker, and Kameishia Wooten
What's the line between creative presentation and gimmick? During this session we'll explore answers to that question and discuss how to create a marketing identity for your body of work that attracts attention in a good way. Part of the Spring Weeks of Welcome. Open to all Columbia College students.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
Back-up your talent with a digital copy of your work. On Tuesday, January 29 at 3PM we'll discuss best practices for documenting, archiving and formatting work for inclusion in a portfolio. Part of the Spring Weeks of Welcome. Open to all Columbia College students.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
It's never too early to think about how to present your body of work. On Monday, January 28 at 3PM we'll introduce you to portfolio formats, resources and ways students in various majors can showcase their talent in a portfolio. Part of the Spring Weeks of Welcome. Open to all Columbia College students.
Location: 623 S. Wabash, room 307
by Emily Easton
So, we’ll admit that the connection between portfolios and graduate school applications for programs outside of the arts is tenuous at best, but hear us out: both require you to present your work professionally and succinctly- and most students have the exact same questions about both their applications and their portfolios: what should I put in and what are people looking for?
A graduate application for a non-arts program usually includes GRE scores, a writing sample, a transcript, recommendation letters and a statement of purpose. Daunting, yes, but grad school applications are daunting for a reason; graduate study is a major league commitment. If you can’t handle the ap, you’re not ready for grad school.
Before your stomach hits the floor, consider the following advice from Chad Cyrenne of the University of Chicago’s Master of Arts in the Social Sciences Program. He reviews both M.A. and PhD applications so he knows what that side of the table is looking for.
-GRE scores are not the final word on your application, but they are an important component. Be as ready as you can to take the test well the first time around as all scores are reported to the program you’re applying to. (While you do have the option to retake the GREs, your early scores don’t just disappear.) Don’t completely disregard the quantitative section either- just because you’re applying to a writing-based program doesn’t mean they won’t look at how good you are at math.
-A writing sample should be a maximum of 35 double-spaced pages. Proofread, proofread, proofread. Proofread.
-Make sure to have your transcripts sent in a timely fashion by your college or university. A late transcript is a late application and late applications are not considered. If you have some grade dips, that’s not the end of the world. If you can show you improved throughout your undergraduate career, most programs will take that into consideration.
-Make sure your recommendations come from people familiar with your work- preferably your academic work. If you have been working in a field related to your anticipated course of study, professional recommendations can be a strong asset as well, but be sure to have at least one from your undergraduate institution. Some students ask for these letters soon after they graduate and store them online at interfolio.com. If you have been out of school for a while, be sure to allow time to discuss or even meet with your former professors to make sure they can write a strong letter.
-A statement of purpose should address: the intellectual puzzle you hope to tackle, what relevant experience (academic and professional) you bring to the subject matter and why the particular department would be the ideal place to undertake your research. Identify key faculty members who have written in your field and mention them by name. Include articles or books they have written that relate to your research. This is not the time to offer a chapter of your autobiography; this is the space to show what you’re going to do with the opportunity you’re asking for and why you deserve to do it with their specific program.
If this seems like a lot of work, we’ve gotten our message across: it is. But, thousands of students find success every year and there’s no reason you can’t; especially if you’re properly prepared.
Emily Easton is Senior Program Development Officer at University of Chicago
There are tons of portfolio resources available to students but where should you start? Well, that depends on the level of your work. We've added a Quick Start guide to our website to help students navigate their way to Portfolio Center programs and resources that they're eligible for. Next, register with our center (if you haven't already) and you'll receive occasional e-mails from us announcing events that you can participate in. Also be sure to check out your industry page to view more information about portfolio issues relevant to you.
The Portfolio Center created a Portfolio Wiki as a means for students to research common terms used in arts & media industries. With currently over 90 articles, this wiki aims to educate those assembling and revising their own creative portfolios, as well as serve a exchange point for information about creative portfolios from educators, professionals and artists.
The information is divided into three main sections, with categories within. Information is offered on portfolios depending on the type of media they serve, a general listing of terms and organizations that offer help building and revising a portfolio and an admissions portfolio section, which details arts and media programs around the world and what they expect in an application portfolio.
If you're unsure what a portfolio for your industry is, the Portfolio Wiki is a great place to get the correct information. Check it out.
Are you graduating this year? Congrats! Next step job hunting, right? Wrong. Shape up your body of work first. Take this quick survey (it really is quick) and let the Portfolio Center know ways in which we can help you build your portfolio.
Then, mark your calendar for Portfolio Boot Camp: Reviews, Workshops & Production for New Grads to be held January 21-25. During this week you’ll have the opportunity to receive feedback from professionals and tighten up your portfolio presentation through production services. But, be sure to complete the survey so that we can tailor the events specifically to you.
Human Resources Director Jodi Budnick of Relay Worldwide will scout graphic design talent and review portfolios on Friday, November 30 from 1-3PM. Relay is a full-service sponsorship and event marketing company. Relay’s client list includes Jim Beam Brands, Miller, Coca-Cola, Cingular, McDonald’s, Kellogg’s, Toyota, United, Nike and Dunkin’ Donuts, to name a few. Seniors and spring ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
All technical theater majors are invited to participate in an informative discussion about your body of work and how to build a portfolio. You’ll be introduced to documentation and presentation issues, various portfolio formats and given an overview of resources available through the Portfolio Center. It's never too early or too late to visualize your portfolio.
Portfolio presentations will be given on:
Thursday, November 15 at 10AM
Monday, November 19 at 2PM
Wednesday, November 28 at 5:30PM
Location: Portfolio Center, 623 S. Wabash, Room 307
With 12 locations worldwide, including Chicago, Miami Ad School is known and well-respected for cranking out advertising folks with stellar portfolio books. On Thursday, November 15 at 3:30, Denise Esterkyn, Director of Miami Ad School’s San Francisco location, will provide insight on what qualifies as a strong advertising portfolio. She’ll also discuss the school’s unique portfolio development programs in art direction, copywriting, graphic design, account planning and fashion photography. Location: 623 S. Wabash, Room 311 (near but not in the Portfolio Center)
Denise will also stick around campus and conduct portfolio reviews with advertising students on Friday, November 16 from 10AM-Noon
Good design for good reason is Firebelly Design’s motto. On Thursday, November 29 from 10AM to 1PM designers Antonio Garcia and Will Miller will review student graphic and interactive design portfolios for the company. Firebelly has served over 100 clients in its seven years in business including Chicago Foundation for Women, LaSalle Bank and Anchor Graphics.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
Creative Recruiter Allison Sagehorn with Manuela Guidi LLC will review portfolios for students preparing for ad-creative careers on Tuesday, November 20 from 1:30-4:30PM. Manuela Guidi is one of the most respected names in the Midwest advertising community. The firm sources creative talent for many of the areas biggest and most successful agencies. Open to seniors and spring ’07 grads with advertising art, copywriting and web design portfolios.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure you select the 'Show Off' option. Then, call 312.344.7280 to sign up to show off your work.
Show Off is a program that brings artists, professionals and students together for 20-minute one-on-one portfolio reviews and advising. One part mentorship, one part talent search, Show Off is the primary vehicle the Portfolio Center uses to get seniors, grad students and recent graduates in front of people in their field - and the way many students have found full-time, freelance and intern positions.
John Aitken, Founder & Manager and Doug Stanley, Retoucher & Illustration of art production service house Beat Studios will review portfolios showcasing digital imaging/retouching and illustration on Tuesday, November 13 from 2PM-4PM. Beat Studios’ utilization of art and technology has landed them projects for brands such as VO5, Gatorade, Quaker and Office Max. Seniors and spring ’07 graduates are eligible to participate.
If you haven't already, register with the Portfolio Center and make sure yo
