Course Overview:

This 3 month portfolio class is designed to prepare middle school students for NYCDOE public art high school auditions. The program will engage children in the arts while demystifying the audition process and building strong, authentic portfolio pieces. Students will develop foundational observational drawing skills, explore three dimensional work, and gain confidence presenting their artistic voice. The course will emphasize process, growth, and craftsmanship rather than “perfect” final products.

This class is designed for middle school students (grades 6-8), including beginners through advanced artists, interested in applying to NYC public art high schools. 

*Students will need to submit 3-5 images of their work and short description of experience to contact@listastudios.com prior to registration to better plan program content for each unique group of students. While we recommend starting the course at the beginning, registration will remain open on a rolling basis. 

Program Goals:

• Clarify NYCDOE art high school audition expectations and portfolio requirements
• Present public art high school options, including schools that do not require portfolios
• Strengthen drawing from observation using traditional materials
• Introduce figure drawing and basic sculptural thinking
• Support students in completing required and commonly requested portfolio pieces
• Build confidence, artistic vocabulary, and independence
• Ensure each student leaves with cohesive portfolio ready pieces for auditions

Students Will Leave With:

• 5-6 portfolio-ready artworks 
• Strong observational drawing skills 
• Experience working with diverse materials
• Confidence preparing and presenting their work for art high school auditions