So What’s Next?

Don’t be afraid to take the first step in your artistic journey

Learn how you can take the first step in your artistic journey

May / June 2024

Cherish Williams

You might have noticed that most of the people we interviewed on the previous pages suggested that you begin working toward your goals by making a portfolio. A portfolio is a collection of artworks. A strong portfolio usually has a cohesive theme. It might be a conceptual theme, or it might show exploration of an artistic process or medium.

Most college- and graduate-level art programs, art grant and fellowship applications, and even employers hiring for creative positions require portfolios. So it’s a good idea to start learning how to develop your own portfolio now. Then by the time you’re ready to take the next steps—whatever they might be—you’ll be confident in your work.

Many of the people interviewed on the previous pages had advice for students. Several suggested making a portfolio. A portfolio is a collection of artworks. A good portfolio usually has a clear theme. This might be a concept, like nature or family. It can also show how you’ve explored a process or medium, like photography or clay.

Most art schools and creative jobs require those who apply to submit portfolios. This may seem far in the future. But learning how to create a portfolio now will help you feel prepared if you decide you want to go to art school someday.

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Jordan Casteel

Even if it feels nerve-racking to think about applying for school, grants, or jobs, it’s worth putting yourself out there. “Always apply for everything. Even a rejection brings you one step closer to your goal,” says painter Jordan Casteel (right). “The number of times that I thought I wasn’t good enough and didn’t throw my hat in the ring for opportunities is something that I deeply regret.”

You never know when your work will land in front of the right person at the right time, launching your career. Casteel recalls, “The times that changed my life and got me closer to my dreams have been when I took a leap of faith and had to trust that either something would rise up to meet me or that I would learn to fly.”

When the time comes, don’t be afraid to take risks. “Always apply for everything,” says painter Jordan Casteel (right). “Even a rejection brings you closer to your goal.” Casteel remembers opportunities she didn’t apply for. She worried she wasn’t good enough, saying “[That] is something I deeply regret.”

Not every opportunity will work out. But you never know until you try. “The times that changed my life and got me closer to my dreams have been when I took a leap of faith,” Casteel says.