Article by Janine Roche,Tobi Dele, Janice Harrington and Deirbhile Nic Giolla Chomhail who gave talks on our Portfolio Preparation Courses to local schools to as part of their work experience module.
Planning the presentation
As part of our Work Experience we got placements in various lines of work, some worked in Retail, others with the Craft Council of Ireland at exhibitions and at the Knitting and Stitching Fair and a few of us got the chance to go on some school visits with our tutor.
In preparation for the school visits we sat as a group and decided on what information the students would need to get a full impression of the portfolio courses and college. We divided the information amongst the four of us and wrote up a brief paragraph on our topic for the visits.
Deirbhile with Students in Loretto Swords
Our portfolios were prepared so that the students got a good idea of the amount of work that goes into an individuals portfolio. When we arrived at the schools we displayed our work in the art rooms and gave the 5th/ 6th year students a brief talk about the portfolios courses, the modules and what its like to be a full time art student. After the talk students could come up to view our portfolios and ask us questions.
One of the girls got to go to a 2nd year art class to talk to them about preparation work for their Junior Cert. Giving them tips on how to lay out their work, use different surfaces to draw on, take the time to observe their objects and not be afraid to experiment.
As the days went on it became easier to talk publicly and to be able to talk to the students on a one to one basis about our work. It was important to be on time, having to be at the school for specific appointments made time management a priority, it also gives a much better impression.
Janine talks to students in Ashbourne Community School
In the three schools that we got to visit the students seemed really interested in our work and the courses. Having the chance to see a portfolio the students realised just how much work and effort goes into developing a portfolio that can compete with other art students around the country.
Many thanks to the Art teachers and students who made us so welcome in Loretto Swords, Dominican College Griffith Avenue and Ashbourne Community School
Colaiste Ide Art and Fashion 