Get Organized: Preparing for Portfolio Class

Considering the big task ahead using to-do lists should become an essential part of each week. There is a great to do list you can access at teuxdeux. I am passionate about the Entourage calendar that sends me automatic reminders prior to meetings and due dates. These two items could be just what you need to make things happen and get more organized than ever before.

http://teuxdeux.com/

I wanted also at the end of the semester to send this Pre-Portfolio checklist to remind you of the worthy goals we have accomplished this semester and nudge you about what you could still be polishing prior to January 24th.

__Review your projects to determine what is worthy to go into your portfolio
__Chart all your existing work to determine gaps and what new pieces you should be creating
__Create a personal mood board to help you get to your portfolio theme with images and key words
__Determine a portfolio theme
__Determine the size of your portfolio pages. Page size and Spread size.
__Golden section your page or spread size to develop a grid
__Using the golden section create spread layouts for the following spreads

Teaser/Intro
Process page
Pay-off page
Branding page
Introduction to portfolio book
Credits page
Possible contents of each spread:
Teaser: indices, folios, image [mood board, pattern, collage, teaser image], descriptive copy for project
Process: mind maps, mood boards, type specimens, color swatches, texture swatches, process drawings, diagrams, competitive analysis, design briefs, mock-ups, how to
Pay-off: glorious large pay off photo and caption
Branding: branding photos and captions

__Write copy for your portfolio
Types of copy:
Introduction to portfolio
Descriptive copy

__Design a logo for your personal theme that could be on the cover or introduction of your portfolio
__Create a personal identity
__Develop a personal stationery package including business card, letterhead and envelope

WINTER BREAK AND SPRING

__Prepare your workspace, get a calendar and to do list system in place. Organize your work folders.
__Design and develop a personal resume, cover letter, tear sheets and promotional packet in Spring
__Create a personal blog and/or website to promote your work in Spring
__Create the portfolio in Spring
__Develop a table display for the AIGA Portfolio Review

* Note: I'm hoping some of you will consider taking Art G 151: Travel by Design crn 08677 with me this Spring. If you want to learn how to get organized and are ready to really define your goals, objectives and get a clear vision for your future this is the class for you. In addition we will be making a very special poster [double-sided] with maps and information. This could be such an important piece for your portfolio and showcase your skills. I think it is a GREAT class to take with portfolio and I hope you will join me for the first 8 weeks.

Whatever you did not get done in portfolio prep please push yourself to have a clear field of vision on January 24th.

Remember...take it one step at a time. YOU CAN DO IT! Get more organized than ever before and build in time to relax [swim, walk, jog, yoga], get good nutrition and focus on your career and life goals. What a privilege it is for me to work with all of you.