VPA Visual Arts
Total Audition time: Approximately 90 minutes
What are we looking for:
We are looking for students with potential who demonstrate their passion for the visual arts. Successful students show strong observational skills and hand-eye coordination.
How to prepare:
Students and parents should attend the virtual audition workshop in November 2, 2026 where the audition process and content are discussed. All questions will be addressed during this session.
Each applicant is expected to complete and upload their portfolio to the application, the 5 required assignments listed below, as well as 5 independent (student choice) assignments for a total of 10. It is NOT acceptable for students to include copyrighted material such as cartoons, manga, and/or superhero drawings as part of their independent assignments. Applicants are required to upload the specified number of assignments. Sketchbooks are encouraged and welcomed to have available to show live as part of the interview. The program is looking for students with artistic potential to learn, grow, and become artists. Artwork will be assessed on its quality and composition. Students who have access to color media are encouraged to use them. All students should bring their portfolio on audition day as well.
Portfolio Requirements:
Required (10 images required total)
1. A drawn or painted self-portrait from observation using a mirror.
2. A drawn or painted original design (a non-representational arrangement of lines, shapes, colors, or the repetitive use of objects.)
3. A mechanical drawing (a functional object with interactive components and some intricate detail: a bicycle, motorcycle, car, hand mixer, or a scooter) from observation.
4. A still life drawing of multiple objects from observation (examples—a bowl of fruit, toys, silverware, dishes, or sneakers).
5. A drawn or painted interior view of the corner of a room. Make sure there are objects in the space.
**Applicants are encouraged to bring their sketchbook to the interview to show drawing skills.
Independent Assignments (5)
5 artworks of the applicant’s choice
Copyrighted images may not be used
Digital art and photography are accepted.
The use of Artificial Intelligence many not be used to generate images.
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The audition process itself:
Students should attend the visual art audition on Saturday, December 5, 2026. The onsite in-person audition process will include two parts:
It will include a 20-minute interview to demonstrate the following:
Discussion of their artwork
Positive response and enthusiasm for visual arts
Willingness to discuss and accept constructive criticism
Desire to experiment with "new media" and techniques
Awareness of and sensitivity to aesthetic ideas, feelings and expressions
Willingness to examine art history as part of the visual art process.
It will include a 45-minute onsite observational drawing to demonstrate the following
Use of space/composition
Placement of objects
Likeness to subject matter
Attention to detail
Neatness
Have a successful audition/FAQs:
Q: Where should we send the portfolio? A Students should bring their portfolio with them to the audition.
Q: How do we get an audition? You will be notified of the audition location, audition date and time.
Q: Is everyone guaranteed an audition? A: Students who complete the application will receive an audition.
Q: How should a student prepare for the interview? A: By assembling a portfolio of the suggested work, being prepared to discuss and explain each piece, and being ready to talk about themself and their goals.