Have you always wanted the opportunity to make a body of work? Here’s your chance!

This comprehensive workshop is designed to help middle and high school students prepare a strong, competitive portfolio for their future  art program applications. Students will receive guided instruction on selecting and refining artwork, developing cohesive bodies of work, and presenting their pieces professionally for submission.

Participants will learn what Art Programs look for in an art portfolio, including technical skill, conceptual development, originality, and process documentation. The workshop will cover portfolio organization, photographing artwork, writing effective artist statements, and understanding digital submission platforms such as SlideRoom.

Through personalized feedback, group critiques, and one-on-one guidance, students will leave with a clearer direction for their artistic voice and a structured plan for completing and submitting their portfolio on time.

Ideal for juniors and seniors planning to apply to art schools, design programs, or fine arts departments, this workshop equips students with the tools, confidence, and strategic insight needed to present their work at a professional level.

October 10, 17, 24, 31; November 7, 14, 21, 2026
5:30pm – 6:30pm
Ages 14-17

Instructor Bio:

EMILYANN CRAIGHEAD | Emilyann Craighead is a Westminster-based artist, curator, and exhibition designer with more than a decade of experience at The Galleries at CCBC. Her work spans studio art, exhibition design, and curation, bringing a professional gallery perspective and thoughtful eye to helping emerging artists develop and present their work.

Members receive 10% off with promo code MEMBER

When you register for a class or workshop with the Carroll County Arts Council, you’re doing more than signing up to create! Your registration helps us provide competitive and equitable compensation to local and regional teaching artists while creating welcoming, high-quality opportunities for people across Carroll County to learn, connect, and explore their creativity!

Want to help someone else participate?
Pay it forward! Consider making a gift to support arts education and scholarship opportunities. Your generosity helps open the door for more of our neighbors to discover, learn, and create.

Need assistance participating?
Creativity belongs to everyone. Scholarship assistance is available for youth and adult participants, including the Tom Holder Memorial Scholarship for youth.

When you support the Carroll County Arts Council, you’re helping build a more vibrant, creative, and connected Carroll County!