This studio drawing class is designed to help students understand the components of the art school application portfolio, with a focus on observational drawing. Open to ages 15-18. Course descriptionThe portfolio is an important component of an art school application. Most colleges require that portfolios include observational drawings, or drawings made from what we see, rather than from our imagination or a photograph.Work with still life and figurative subject matter and the fundamentals of a drawing: composition, line, structure, value, and expression. Instruction in drawing techniques are supplemented by art history discussions, feedback, short writing exercises, an MCAD Admissions staff presentation, requirements for art and design school portfolios, and regular homework assignments. Assignments and feedback encourage and enable students to create individual work that aligns with requirements for portfolio submissions within their own interests and experience. Students may choose to work digitally for some assignments and must provide their own device and knowledge of software. / Professional nude models may be used in this class. / Materials fee of $11 is included in course tuition.Open to students ages 15–18. Please review our complete Youth and Teen Policies as well as our complete policies prior to completing your registration. Class meeting detailsThis course meets in person on MCAD’s campus.PrerequisitesPrevious drawing experience is helpful, but not required.Required materialsSupplies for the first day18 x 24” newsprint, drawing pad18 x 24" drawing paper pad (good quality 80 lb. or heavier)3 drawing pencils (HB 2B 2H)2–4 sticks vine/willow charcoal soft or medium2 square blocks of soft compressed charcoalerasers: kneaded and Staedtlerwhite artists or masking tapeportfolio to transport work (portfolio can be made out of 2 pieces of foam board secured with binder clips)Students should expect to spend up to $75 on supplies in addition to course tuition.What to wearClothes appropriate for messy creativity. Comfortable shoes for standing. Class savingsRegister on or before August 10 and save $25.Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).Additional savings. Are you eligible?Questions?Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765. Register Title Non-credit Tuition $197.00 Not Yet Open for Registration Registration opens July 27. Date: Sat, Oct 24, 2026 - Sat, Nov 14, 2026 Time: 1:00–4:00 p.m. CT Day(s) of the week: Saturday Ages: Open to students ages 15–18. Term: Fall 2026 Instructor: Bianca Jarvis Location: In Person SKU: CST 9579 01 FA26 Prerequisites: Previous drawing experience is helpful, but not required.