<p>I’m applying to several art programs that are asking for recent work. When they say recent do they only mean in the past year? Would including any work that I’ve made during my high school career (freshman & sophomore year) be pushing it? What did you guys do/:</p>
<p>Hi. “Recent” is open to interpretation. You should choose your portfolio pieces that are your very best first and foremost. They should also represent skill sets and interests that you have presently. If you were painting ten years ago, and not since, they might not be appropriate – although if you had one or two amazing pieces I might sneak them in there.</p>
<p>I’d say more than 2 years old isn’t going to adequately show what you’re currently capable of. If you don’t have enough recent work to choose from, you need to consider if you’re ready to study art. </p>
<p>Don’t just use work from school. Use work you’ve created at home. If you don’t do this, it would be another red light as to your current suitability for the major.</p>
<p>I have been steadily making studio pieces since the 8th grade so its not that I don’t have enough pieces or haven’t made any in a while. In fact, I easily have at least 15 from this past year. Its just that I took oil painting and sculpture courses in the summer before my junior year, and haven’t had the opportunity or materials to make other oil paintings/oil clay sculpture. Considering that I usually don’t work in those mediums, I’m pretty proud of them and want to show that diversity. </p>
<p>Also, I participated in a yearly, regional art competition every year of high school until I moved in the middle of my junior year. Unfortunately, because of the move, I wasn’t able to participate in it that year and thereafter. Though they are from my freshman and sophomore years, those contest entries were easily my best work from those years and are quite up to par to what I am capable of doing now… </p>
<p>This is the only reason why I’m asking(:</p>
<p>Sorry for sounding snarky. I do understand your reasoning. But I’d still avoid if you’ve put the date on the front.</p>
<p>Best thing to do is ignore me completely and check with the school you’re applying to as well as your art teacher. Indeed, your teacher to help with reviewing your work if you haven’t already. They might think other pieces are stronger than the ones you like. </p>
<p>Maybe, if there’s time, you could look up some new 3d techniques that use materials you already have and have a go? Pinterest is great for ideas/how to’s. No harm if they don’t work out. Very best of luck with your portfolio and your application!</p>
<p>No problem, at the end of the day, out of context, I probably would’ve suggested the same! Thank you for the advice, really. I’ll see what I can do(:</p>