me arts ed

Boston, November 7, 12:00-4:00, Hynes Convention Center, hosted by Mass College of Art and Design

Manon Lewis

At the Maine Art Education Association board meeting recently Boothbay Region High School art teacher Manon Lewis mentioned Portfolio Day and what a great experience it has been for her students in the past. She sent me this information to let me know the details. My guess is that some of you might be interested in what the day is like and how another art teacher handles it. Please contact Manon if you have questions by email mlewis@csd3.org.

The DownEaster train is a great way to travel to Boston for the portfolio day. You can check the details at www.AmtrakDowneaster.com or call 800-872-3298, ask about the Discovery Program and they will give you the field trip rates.

“The Portfolio Day is a crazy affair–lots of long lines (especially at the esteemed schools ie. RISD, Pratt, Parsons…), thousands of students, parents and teachers–so, patience and perseverance are necessary. I usually have my students approach a shorter line–any college– to have their portfolio critiqued just to make sure that they get practice in portfolio review. Also, having the students see lots of other peoples portfolios is a wake-up call for most!  I combine a trip to the Museum of Fine Art, and eating lunch and/or supper at an ethnic restaurant into our day. I’ve had students in the past accepted right there on the spot. It is very worthwhile day.”