What should I include in a Barnard arts supplement portfolio?

For Barnard, an arts supplement should show serious skill, clear artistic point of view, and consistency rather than a random mix of everything you have made. The strongest portfolio usually includes your best recent work, a cohesive range of pieces that reflect how you think as an artist, and short descriptions that clarify medium, context, and your role. Since Barnard reviews arts supplements as an optional addition to the main application, it should add meaningful evidence of talent, not repeat what is already obvious elsewhere.

For visual art, prioritize finished pieces that show technical ability and range within a coherent body of work. That often means selecting works in 2D, 3D, mixed media, photography, digital art, or design that demonstrate observation, composition, experimentation, and development of ideas. If you include design work, make sure it reads as art-making or visual thinking, not just casual graphics or school club materials unless those pieces are especially strong and conceptually interesting.

Your selections should also show intention. For example, if you work in both fine art and design, it helps if the pieces still feel connected by visual style, subject matter, or creative questions you return to. Admissions readers and faculty reviewers are usually more persuaded by a portfolio that feels curated than by one that feels like a scrapbook.

The written descriptions matter more than many applicants realize. For each piece, briefly note title, medium, dimensions, date, and whether it was made for class, independent study, commission, publication, or personal exploration. If a design piece was collaborative, clearly state what you did.

Avoid including unfinished work, too many studies unless they are exceptional, or pieces that only show effort without strong execution. Also avoid adding art just to prove variety. Barnard is more likely to be helped by a portfolio that shows real artistic strength and authenticity than one trying to check every box.