MassArt

Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt)

As the first and only public, independent college of art and design in the United States, Boston-based MassArt has a reputation for fostering experimentation and conceptual thinking within a diverse and accessible environment.

• Number of Pieces: 15-20 examples of your strongest and most recent work.

• Media: There is a strong emphasis on a variety of media. Your portfolio can and should reflect a range of your interests and skills. This can include drawing, painting, sculpture, digital art, photography, video, or any other visual medium.

• Key Focus: MassArt is looking for creative exploration and a unique point of view. While technical skill is important, they are equally interested in your willingness to take creative risks, experiment with different materials, and develop your own ideas.

  • Originality: They strongly discourage submitting work that is copied directly from other artists or existing media (fan art). The goal is to see how you think and create on your own.

  • Observational Drawing: While not a strict requirement, practicing and including drawing from observation is highly recommended as it demonstrates foundational skills that are crucial for success in their programs.

  • No Unifying Theme Required: Your portfolio does not need to revolve around a single concept; in fact, showing a range of styles and approaches is encouraged to highlight your versatility.