Certificate Programs in Art and Design: Four Tips for Wowing the Admissions Department

Ask Sotheby's, an international art auction house, about the recession and they may wonder what you are talking about. Anyone present in its saleroom on November 9, 2010 may have wondered the same thing, considering some of the astonishing dollar figures that were paid for works by many esteemed artists. According to The New York Times, the sale brought in a total of $222.4 million--almost $10 million more than the high estimate of $214.5 million for the 54 works being offered, only five percent of which did not sell. The highest priced item of the evening, a 1962 Coke bottle painting by Warhol, was sold for $35.3 million to the highest of seven bidders--a whopping $10 million more than the work's estimated value of $25 million.
If you have been considering a career in the timeless field of art and design, take a cue from the clamor at Sotheby's for a glimpse at what your future may hold. But, with keen competition forecast by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for art positions, and art and design schools sifting through piles of portfolios of qualified students, how can you make your application shine when applying to a certificate program in art and design?
4 Tips for a Terrific Art School Application
Whether you are investigating online schools or traditional campus programs, earning a certificate in art and design can give you the foundation needed to build a successful art career. Following are several tips to help your application stand out in the hands of potential schools.

1. Write an excellent essay. If the certificate program you are applying to requires an essay, be sure to follow the instructions perfectly. Pay special attention to spacing and font requirements--your ability to present an organized essay reflects your conscientiousness and attention to detail. Be honest and direct in your message and remember to proofread it several time before submitting with your application.
2. Rely on recommendations. Many certificate programs in art and design require letters of recommendation from art instructors, employers, or people who are familiar with your artistic abilities. If you have been out of school for some time, turn to those who are aware of your current personal and artistic attributes. An outdated recommendation may convey a message of stagnation and lack of personal growth.
3. Present a powerful portfolio. While previous coursework, recommendations, and writing samples are an important part of the application, many esteemed art schools agree that the portfolio is the key part of the package. Most online schools and brick-and-mortar institutions require prospective art students to submit a portfolio than includes approximately 20 pieces of original artwork that you created in the past one to two years. Most request the works on CD or DVD. Your portfolio is your opportunity to showcase your technique, creativity, talent, and uniqueness. The one you submit will be examined as a whole unit, so pay special attention to what your pieces convey and be sure to include a variety of works to highlight your skill.
4. Prepare for an ideal interview. If you must participate in an interview for the certificate program in art and design you are applying to, be sure to focus on honesty and the importance of art in your life. Conveying your motivation and portraying the enthusiasm you have for your work is a sure sign to admissions staff that you are serious about your future as a student and artist.

While art and design are competitive fields, there are always patrons of the arts ready to pay top dollar for innovative works or classic collectibles. A certificate program in art and design can help you make your name as an artist and maybe someday your creations will be up for auction.

Lisa Tortorello has been a Director of Public Relations and Marketing within a large East Coast health care system for more than 11 years. She has an associate's degree in Liberal Arts and a bachelor's degree in Public Communication.