Sheridan Information Please!

[Ryn]

Winona,
Neither Art Fundamentals nor Animation require that you have a laptop. The most spec-demanding thing you'll be doing is 3d animation (which starts in year two of the animation program) and you'll have access to computer labs for that stuff.
It would be good to have one capable of running Photoshop for painting, taking notes, all that good stuff. You could certainly get away without having one at all, I know a bunch of people who do, but they're always nice to have if you can afford it. :>
Hope that answers your question.

[Alex Chow]

Best reason for a laptop is portable gaming (Starcraft on demand!) :P .

But seriously, thanks for the answer, Ryn.

[Winona]

Alright, thanks Ryn - just wanted to be extra sure! :)

Flash; I guess they don't require them at any time yet. I was wondering if that would change in years to come, though I guess Sheridan offers all the resources one would need in that department, which is nice!

[Ryn]

...Or soon, Starcraft II on demand!! :P

Winona, yep, everything you need to work will be at the school! Which is a nice bonus - it makes homework a less lonely, haha. I personally find working at school is way more fun than working at home and I've met a bundle of people I wouldn't have otherwise.
I also wouldn't really worry about Animation becoming a mobile computing program any time soon. You'll do a bit of 3d stuff and use the computers at the school for Flipbook but the program will likely be focused predominantly on traditional media for quite some time.

[Jonny Dark]

hunchback i am so bummed out by this news.

[aznsalad]

mhm if u really wanna invest your money on some kind of hardwares, get a portable hard drive when its on sell.
Hey Ben and Braden, suprised to see u guys still helping out the future animators. even more suprised that this thread is still here.

[Demonique768]

http://www.alienware.com/products/alx-x58-desktop.aspx?SysCode=PC-ALX-X58-R2&SubCode=SKU-DEFAULT
This thing makes me wanna do dirty things

[flash jordan]

Oh gawd alien ware.. don't do it.

Also random question.. how is sheridan for bike security? Do they have the racks in a good location? Are there cameras? Thanks :D

[amarryth]

there are racks.. near the main doors.. i'm sure there will be more on the way too... cycling is becoming a popular form of transportation.. security is really good at the school, so good in fact that there have been times they wouldn't even let me onto the faculty mezzanine in the illustration wing to hand in an assignment after hours.. twice!!

grrr!

[aznsalad]

well dont think u will be biking much in winter

[flash jordan]

well dont think u will be biking much in winter

Then you thought wrong :D

[Ryn]

^ Oakville isn't the greatest for keeping sidewalks cleared in the winter. Sometimes the sidewalks are more like tiny rivers, just filled with slushy water and ice. They can get pretty bad when the weather turns; there will definitely be days during the winter where it isn't safe to bike. :(

[Amazing Action Ape]

Can anyone tell me when the tuition deferall fee is due this year for loan users?

[Jonny Dark]

A bike is still nice to have though to go to the malls for stuffs. It's a decent thing to bring. My girl gets alot of use out of hers and saves alot of transit time in fall and spring. But yeah even she can't bike during the winter.

[RyerOrdStar]

Bring boots with spikes on the soles...You'll need them not to fall down on the icy sidewalks :P

[Alex Chow]

Can anyone tell me when the tuition deferall fee is due this year for loan users?

I don't know if it's different for returning students, but I had to pay mine by June 24th.

[thomasaurus]

Tuition deferral is the same as paying, for returning students I think its near the end of July.

The only necessary investment for Animation would be a portable drive...I got along fine with an 8 gig thumbdrive for 3 years...

[Amazing Action Ape]

Yeah, its July 29th. I checked on accesssheridan. I can't complete my freaking OSAP forms until I'm back in oakville though which is a PAIN in the ass. I dont want to be late on the freaking tuition deferall this year like I was last year as well, caused a few headaches with fucking administration clowns. I never DID get an 08/09 sticker for my ID either. Sorry all I just ramble, dont mind me.

Yeah, a flash drive (max you need for first year is like 2 gigs, but i dont even know if you can buy those anymore, its all 4, 8 whatever now.) but the bigger the better obviously. Also people in your year will have tons of cool digital shit, like porno, and obscure movies/games/music/art that you will want to take home with you, so a flash drive is also quite handy for that. Besides that, all you REALLY need is a brain, and a decent work ethic. It gets a little intense in second year, but if you work smart, not hard, its a breeze.

[Ryn]

I never DID get an 08/09 sticker for my ID either. Sorry all I just ramble, dont mind me.


If they neglected to mail you one you just get them from the registrar. If they do 09/10 stickers it'll be easier for you to go to the registrar directly than wait on the post. I find Sheridan is awful at mailing things.

[roseluff]

Throwing a question for those going/who were previously in fundies.

So I called the school and they said they'd be opening some slots for the month of August for the language assessment. They never said when so I wonder if anyone knew specifically when that would be? Thankies :)

[towelieee]

hi i was wondering if any one knows if Senecas 3 years Animation programs could be transferred to Sheridan Bachelor of Applied Arts in Animation...

[aznsalad]

**************************
Hey for people who are in / going to sheridan for art related program

My name is Roland, going 3rd year animation in Sept,

Mhm, this is just something going cross my mind these days,

I am thinking about starting a Concept Art related Club at school for the ones would like to be exposed different style of art and wanting improve their art skills.

I know there used to be a CA group in Sheridan and we do stuff such as Drinka N draw. well i think it still exists but might not be as active. (pardon me if i was wrong)

I dont know if you guys have heard of Sheridan is planning to get a four year Entertainment design/Game design going. It shows theres number of students are interested in concept design field.

Just want to see how you guys think of the idea of this club. We can learn from each other and sharing infomation. Maybe by doing CG demos, cafe/subway drawing or Motivation group/CG group. Regrading to the information part, we can get people from animation student council to make announcements so we know whats going on in the upper end. Q/A sections with the senior/graduated/post grad students. and most important Animation Portifolio help out and info section for fundies. stuff like that.
And more fun stuff like, print sells, Drink and draw(if we find a place),T shirt design, PIZZA party!!!

thx for reading and feel free to drop off any advice

[Alex Chow]

Well, I can't say no to that. I'm interested.

[Indust]

Sounds like a grand idea. But like always things like that are not easy to get going. I hope people will support it and try and participate.

[borism]

Hey, I'm going into my 4th year of animation at Sheridan and I live across the street. If anybody needs a place to stay I have a room available in my apartment.
All details are HERE (http://borisrent.blogspot.com)

[Ninue]

Hi guys. I've decided I'm going to Sheridan (as long as they accept my highschool transcript which is pretty good). I wasn't originally going to be attending college this year because I wanted to make a portfolio to get into animation but since I am practicing at an art school where no one can speak English to me I decided why not just go to Sheridan anyways and do the same thing and get used to living there. I'm going to be in Visual and Creative Studies though (not with you art fundies kids) but I want to make fundies friends too, or any friends really because I am from Texas (yeah, it's far, no I don't ride horses) and I WANT SOME CANADIAN FRIENDS when I get there :D. I heard your milk comes in bags which is going to be harder than moving for me though, because I drink like a quart a week and enjoy the plastic container :'(.

[Amazing Action Ape]

Don't worry Ninue, you can always buy milk cartons. Just get used to seeing the metric system. I know it always throws off you americanyons.

[aznsalad]

I have some friends looking for house/roomates let me know if u need some hook up

[Kb-Kaho]

anyone going to the orientation on sept 1st?


And a CA.org meet/hangout would be pretty interesting, 8D.

[Thuberbaer]

I'll be staying in Toronto from next Wednesday to next Saturday. I'm visiting Sheridan on Friday for the general campus tour - hoping to apply for Classical Animation 2010. Any suggestions for places I definitely shouldn't miss in Toronto or Oakville? I want to sort of get a feel for the area during my 3 day visit, since from all I've heard, I probably won't be getting out much if I get into the animation program.

[RyerOrdStar]

The only place you need to know in Oakville is the Rabba's plaza and maybe the mall. I barely ever made it out past those areas with all the work.

In Toronto you should check out Queen Street, that's where all the "hip urban culture" is mostly, and King Street is where all the theatres and restaurants are. Spadina is Chinatown. Dundas Square (Dundas & Yonge) is fun for random things like movies, shopping, and they always have concerts or something to look at there. Basically anything interesting to do downtown is in the boundaries of Spadina to Yonge, Front to Bloor. (Give or take)

[Storm Serenade]

Hi there, everybody! I've all but completely decided to apply for the Winter Term in Art fundies. My one and biggest concern, though, is not being up to par. I unfortunately can't post any of my work just yet, but just assume it to be sliiiiiightly above the lowest common denominator. I always did well on assignments in high school, but--and though one of my teachers never once made an issue of it--I took forever to do them. And I do mean foooooreeeever. (I'm extremely obsessive >.>;; ) We go to college to learn and hone our skills, but at the same time, I don't want to fall behind or find myself struggling with more than I can manage. I've gotten a wee bit faster, but I'm still very far from where I want to and where I think I ought to be.

Since the term starts in January, I'll have a solid 6 months to practice (when I'm not working). I realize that without any visual representation with which to gauge my skill (or lack there of, hurr hurr hurr 8P), it might be hard to give personalized advice, but I was just wondering if anybody could just give me tips as to how I should divide my time and to which areas, e.g. Still lifes, life drawing, light exercises, anatomy studies, etc. etc. Any and all help would be extremely appreciated. Thanks very much in advance! ^_^

[arghmisfit]

I know there used to be a CA group in Sheridan and we do stuff such as Drinka N draw. well i think it still exists but might not be as active. (pardon me if i was wrong)


ooooyeaaa.. Trust me, the infamous Drink n Draw will be back to full swing this year! :D

[aznsalad]

What do you want to get into, well if you want to start your BAA program in next sept, move down to oakville and do some lifedrawing and get some tips meanwhile you prepare your portifolio. thats what I would do

[Demonique768]

There is a Drink N Draw!!?!? @$@#!**!

[flash jordan]

The only place you need to know in Oakville is the Rabba's plaza and maybe the mall. I barely ever made it out past those areas with all the work.

In Toronto you should check out Queen Street, that's where all the "hip urban culture" is mostly, and King Street is where all the theatres and restaurants are. Spadina is Chinatown. Dundas Square (Dundas & Yonge) is fun for random things like movies, shopping, and they always have concerts or something to look at there. Basically anything interesting to do downtown is in the boundaries of Spadina to Yonge, Front to Bloor. (Give or take)

Check out queen street for sure. :]

[Demonique768]

Roland AKA aznsalad's

If you start that conceptart group I'll definitely join. I really want to try all styles. I'm going into second year now.

[hunchback]

man i want to draw with you guys..
can i apply as a mature student next year?

because i graduated but i was never able to get those credits i needed

i miss toronto....

[Alex Chow]

Has Access Sheridan been done down for anybody for the past week? I get this error message:

Unable to connect to host - Session: Unable to connect to host: hydra.sheridaninstitute.ca..

Contact administrator

[Indust]

Has Access Sheridan been done down for anybody for the past week? I get this error message:

Unable to connect to host - Session: Unable to connect to host: hydra.sheridaninstitute.ca..

Contact administrator

Yeah i get the same error trying to get in too.
Just type https://access.sheridaninstitute.ca in the URL bar when the error message pops up, you should be able to get in.

[Amazing Action Ape]

I've been logging into access sheridan no problem for the past 2 weeks. Thats pretty strange, but im not surprised.

[Babee_fre5h]

Does anybody here know the orientation date for 2nd year animation students? oh, and can we pick our seats on orientation day or can we somehow get in early and pick the best ones? :bashful:

[amarryth]

mm i miss drink n draws...

anyone have any rooms available for a decent price? i'm so sick of driving.. and i want to be with art students that are serious enough about school that they won't bail out halfway through the year..

[waidot]

Hi, I'm currently building my portfolio for Illustration, and I have a few questions. I am going into Grade 12, and since I want to apply this year, can anyone confirm these requirements are correct:

http://www1.sheridaninstitute.ca/students/prospective/appsheets/0910/app-pbaai-1099-public.pdf

I just want to make sure of this or else I'll end up drawing the wrong assessment pieces.

Also, it states : This is meant to show that you can draw the figure from life (demonstrating understanding of proportion and scale).

I was wondering if ANY of these figures NEED to be nude? Thank you for your time.

[Ryn]

Hi, I'm currently building my portfolio for Illustration, and I have a few questions. I am going into Grade 12, and since I want to apply this year, can anyone confirm these requirements are correct:

http://www1.sheridaninstitute.ca/students/prospective/appsheets/0910/app-pbaai-1099-public.pdf

I just want to make sure of this or else I'll end up drawing the wrong assessment pieces.

Also, it states : This is meant to show that you can draw the figure from life (demonstrating understanding of proportion and scale).

I was wondering if ANY of these figures NEED to be nude? Thank you for your time.

Hi there! Good on you for starting your portfolio planning nice and early. Habits like that will help you out a great deal once you're here.
That requirements sheet looks fine; the portfolio requirements don't seem to change much year to year anyway. Don't worry too much about drawing the wrong pieces. The illustration portfolio is entirely open ended (except for the drawing test, that has to be exactly what they ask for). Just make sure you demonstrate the categories they outline on the sheet and you'll be good to go. I applied to Sheridan with a portfolio that was actually tailored for Ringling.

As far as life drawing goes, if you can somehow find yourself a session where you have access to a nude model, that would be great. The figures for the drawing test don't -need- to be nude - you can just sketch people at the park or whatever. However, Sheridan focuses on life drawing moderately within its' programs, so if you can get some nudes in there, all the better. When I did my portfolio, the only life drawing session in the city was booked up for the whole year, so I couldn't go there. I somehow managed some of my friends to pose for me in their underwear, which I included in lieu of 'real' life drawings. So if you have friends who are really comfortable with you, use that to your advantage! hehe.

Goodluck!

[waidot]

Thank you, Ryn, for the very quick reply! I suppose I'll have to attempt to get into a life drawing session.. or get very persuasive with one of my friends (you think $10 is good enough? haha).

[waidot]

http://a.imagehost.org/0996/IMG2_copy.jpg

Here is one of my hand drawings for my portfolio.. Does Sheridan have anything against the way people shade? Should I show lines more in it?

Sorry about putting my name there.. I'm a bit wary when it comes to posting things on forums.

[amarryth]

hey waidot...

from personal experience.. they don't care as much about how well you can render. rendering covers up the structural drawing and thought process.. 5 or 10 quick sketches and gestures of your hands would have far more weight than a single highly rendered drawing. i'm not saying it's bad to use rendered stuff.. but they LOVE sketchbooks.. tons and tons of studies, showing that you really try to analyze and understand something fully..

about the shading.. i'm totally anal about this because my grade 10 teacher was, and made me a better artist for it.. but it looks like you finger smudge... eek. your touch will become stronger and more sensitive by leaps and bounds if you can teach yourself to shade using only the pencil with varied pressure...

and try to not use photo reference..

ps. totally not meaning to sound like a jerk here.. i only want to help and am trying to share all that i was never told :)

[waidot]

hey waidot...

from personal experience.. they don't care as much about how well you can render. rendering covers up the structural drawing and thought process.. 5 or 10 quick sketches and gestures of your hands would have far more weight than a single highly rendered drawing. i'm not saying it's bad to use rendered stuff.. but they LOVE sketchbooks.. tons and tons of studies, showing that you really try to analyze and understand something fully..

about the shading.. i'm totally anal about this because my grade 10 teacher was, and made me a better artist for it.. but it looks like you finger smudge... eek. your touch will become stronger and more sensitive by leaps and bounds if you can teach yourself to shade using only the pencil with varied pressure...

and try to not use photo reference..

ps. totally not meaning to sound like a jerk here.. i only want to help and am trying to share all that i was never told :)

Never once when reading that did I think you sounded like a jerk xP Your feedback and advice is much appreciated and is the reason why I posted this in the first place.

Finger smudging and photo reference? I used toilet paper for smudging, and regarding the photo reference, I merely alternated between looking at my hand and drawing the observation.. a lot =)

Thanks again! Also, is anyone here going to apply this year?

[Amazing Action Ape]

Toilet paper smudging is technically the same thing as finger smudging. :P

Frankly, it looks like it's from a photo because it feels very flat. If you squint your eyes and look at your drawing, the 2 hands blend together, I can't tell which fingers are in front of which on the left hand. There is no feeling of depth, no feeling that the left hand is on top of the right hand. Your shading isn't doing anything to convey that, which would give someone the assumption that it was done from a photo. That is the last thing you want in a portfolio, for illustration.

What amarryth suggested doing is a great place to start! Especially being so young you have plenty of time to practice, make mistakes, learn from them, and prepare for your life ahead of you. Keep it up the hard work though, you'll do great.

[RyerOrdStar]

All she has to do is increase the contrast in shadows. The value of the hands is very high on the scale, so there's plenty more she can push the shadows down. The rest just takes time and practice.

[Demonique768]

Try working with line quality too. I think you need to learn that before you jump to shading. It took me a long time to learn it but yeah no shading for your portfolio unless you are super duper fantastic at it. They like looking at line quality and structure, I think I dont remember exactly but you're graded on those two.

[amarryth]

another thing....... how did you manage to draw both hands from observation? are you ambidextrous..?

you need to consider these things for the illustration portfolio. it specifically states not to use photo reference. you might not want to give them any reason to think that you may have possibly used one.

challenge yourself. do some blind contours. do 20 hand drawings in 10 minutes. draw feet, and faces. draw things. draw the creepy things under your bed. draw the most boring thing you can find. they don't expect you to be perfect going in. they want to know that you are willing to take the time to really understand and study and SEE things, that is what drawing is about anyway.. how you SEE the world.

look close and hard and long. don't waste your time on rendering right now.. you should spend some time on lines. darker harder lines are closer, faint and thin show distance.. i'd love to see some blinds using line sensitivity.. but we often don't get what we want :P

[waidot]

another thing....... how did you manage to draw both hands from observation? are you ambidextrous..?

you need to consider these things for the illustration portfolio. it specifically states not to use photo reference. you might not want to give them any reason to think that you may have possibly used one.

challenge yourself. do some blind contours. do 20 hand drawings in 10 minutes. draw feet, and faces. draw things. draw the creepy things under your bed. draw the most boring thing you can find. they don't expect you to be perfect going in. they want to know that you are willing to take the time to really understand and study and SEE things, that is what drawing is about anyway.. how you SEE the world.

look close and hard and long. don't waste your time on rendering right now.. you should spend some time on lines. darker harder lines are closer, faint and thin show distance.. i'd love to see some blinds using line sensitivity.. but we often don't get what we want :P

I'm not ambidextrous, I just basically compared it with my right hand a lot, and drawing from memory for those short moments, but I understand why that might seem suspicious. I'll try to draw OTHER people's right hands, haha.

I spent today drawing some random people at scarborough town centre and a starbucks, here's my sketchbook thread. I'll spend a bit more time on the drawing tests for portfolios, though.

Sketchbook (http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?p=2379929#post2379929)

I really appreciate everyone's feedback, thank you thank you thank you!

[Jonny Dark]

"Does anybody here know the orientation date for 2nd year animation students? oh, and can we pick our seats on orientation day or can we somehow get in early and pick the best ones?"

Try to get access a week before orientation and get good seats (Not by the door or you will be interrupted to open it whenever someone forgets their key)

[Epicraft]

Hey I have a question as well. I've read the portfolio requirements for the illustration prog. and something has come up.

1) The drawing test says that the work must be done on 8.5 by 11 inches paper. What i'm wondering is, does this also apply to the personal portfolio. I have done alot of work on 9 by 12 paper, and I would hate to see that none of it could be used.

2) Also, the personal portfolio says that you shuold not do fictional work. Does this mean that your sketchbook has to be purely real life. I have done some work that is not fantasy ie. (pipe-organ), though the designs on it could make it be considered as fantasy.

[Ryn]

Hey I have a question as well. I've read the portfolio requirements for the illustration prog. and something has come up.

1) The drawing test says that the work must be done on 8.5 by 11 inches paper. What i'm wondering is, does this also apply to the personal portfolio. I have done alot of work on 9 by 12 paper, and I would hate to see that none of it could be used.

2) Also, the personal portfolio says that you shuold not do fictional work. Does this mean that your sketchbook has to be purely real life. I have done some work that is not fantasy ie. (pipe-organ), though the designs on it could make it be considered as fantasy.

Hi there Epicraft!

1: 9 x 12 is fine. They don't mind bigger pieces, per se (if you're bringing them in personally on portfolio day). That size requirement for the drawing tests is basically to test you on your ability to follow directions. You'd be surprised how many people would do their drawing tests on huge sheets of bristol board... :nohope:

2: "No fictional" work roughly translates into "Do not give us a portfolio full of dragons, unicorns, furries, and tribal tattoo designs" (seriously, that's what it used to say). Your portfolio should be comprised of mostly things from observation. As long as your pipe organ is drawn well and realistically you should be fine.

[Epicraft]

Thanks,now that I know, working on the portfolio should be smooth sailing for now on.:mod:

[liquidtransience]

Holy crap I can't wait to move back to Oakville. I'm in residence again and moving in on the 5th of Sept.

[Alex Chow]

Has Access Sheridan been done down for anybody for the past week? I get this error message:

Unable to connect to host - Session: Unable to connect to host: hydra.sheridaninstitute.ca..

Contact administrator

I found out why it does this. I bookmarked AccessSheridan's login page and the error message only appears if I use the link I bookmarked. If I go there manually and then log in, there doesn't seem to be a problem.

Pretty annoying but whatever.

[amarryth]

Later years... when do we get to pick our electives? I don't even know what my options are!!

[liquidtransience]

Later years... when do we get to pick our electives? I don't even know what my options are!!

I think I read on the website August 26th. It also said we'd be notified in our Sheridan e-mail accounts.

[xshay12000x]

hi everyone
i haf a few questions about portfolio requirements for the animation major.
for the tests specified by sheridan, when do they tell you their requirements for each category like lifedrawing, storyboarding etc.
and when was last year's deadline to hand in all portfolios?
thank y'all : )

[Alex Chow]

hi everyone
i haf a few questions about portfolio requirements for the animation major.
for the tests specified by sheridan, when do they tell you their requirements for each category like lifedrawing, storyboarding etc.
and when was last year's deadline to hand in all portfolios?
thank y'all : )

If they haven't updated this year's requirements, it's not really a problem. They don't really change the requirements at all and they would be pulling a "fast one" if they do change a lot this year. The only one I noticed between the previous years and this year was very subtle; the number of action poses required increased to 3 from 2 for the life drawings (including animal drawings).

The deadline this year was the first week of March I believe but you have a range of days you can choose from. If you choose to mail in the portfolio, the deadline is sooner.

[Demonique768]

anyone else's schedule not showing up?

[RyerOrdStar]

It's not the 25th yet.

[manda_]

Heyyy everyone!

I have a question, do you guys buy all your textbooks from the bookstore on campus or is there somewhere else to get them cheaper? I'm looking for Art Fundies textbooks on sale??
I'm a 1st yearrr and I have no clue, lol.

[Ryn]

90% of the time I don't bother buying textbooks.
If you can get them used from another student that's your best bet. If that's not possible, the bookstore does sell used copies for cheaper. Just make sure you buy the textbook as SOON as your prof tells you. If you wait a week, all the used copies will be sold out and you have to buy it full price.
Also make sure you don't buy a textbook until your prof specifically tells your class. Sometimes the online course outlines will have a textbook requirement listed but the prof has no intention of actually using it. Or sometimes textbooks are 'recommended' (will help if you're having trouble in the course, but are not necessary otherwise).

[Kb-Kaho]

my friends and i got our schedules and we're in fundies, 1st week classes are different from the rest, probably due to labour day, 8B

too bad i don't have any classes with any of my friends :/

[Jonny Dark]

too bad i don't have any classes with any of my friends :/

You'll make so many friends fast in art fundies. I still talk to many of them and it's been 2 years since i was in fundies!

[hunchback]

gonna reapply this year, brand new portfolio and neat stuff hoping to get a higher mark on my portfolio review this year xD. Should be able to avoid all the problems of last year, but i still dont know if i can apply by just being a mature student :(

[Demonique768]

gonna reapply this year, brand new portfolio and neat stuff hoping to get a higher mark on my portfolio review this year xD. Should be able to avoid all the problems of last year, but i still dont know if i can apply by just being a mature student :(

They wouldn't let me apply as a mature student for animation for some reason and they very hard ass about it. Thankfully I had some online credits help as well as some university credits that were added on/transferable. No one I've talked to either in my year had applied as a mature student either cuz I was curious why they wouldn't let me use the mature status.

[amarryth]

you aren't allowed to apply as a mature student if you've graduated high school. if you have your high school diploma, you must meet the academic requirements of the program. i had the same issue... i was three years out of high school when i started illustration.

[Ardescoere]

Just out of curioisty, and forgive me if this is already somewhere int he thread... but is it possible to do any of the degree programs part time? I can't really afford to not go to work every day. But I really want to go to school at Sheridan.

[amarryth]

I did part time last year, but I think you might need special permission to do so.... I'm also pretty sure they don't let you do the full four years part time.. which could take 8 years to finish and kind of defeats the purpose of having the classes simultaneously. You are also allowed to take a year off during and go back to finish, which is an option if you can't afford to go four years straight through.

[Spinal Remains]

Anybody else still sans their schedule? Finding myself a liiiiiittle stressed out here.

[Ryn]

Schedules were updated on the 26th. If you're sure you're checking correctly but still can't see it, call the registrar's office and see what's up.

[RyerOrdStar]

What is it with all the 8 am classes? ARgh.

[Alex Chow]

http://sheridananimation.blogspot.com/

For anybody who is in animation, please email Mark Mayerson (mark.mayerson@sheridanc.on.ca) with your blog/website/whatever. I don't know about others but I find it an excellent resource to get connections with students and it helped me immensely in gathering info on what the standards of an animation portfolio is (while I was making my portfolio). I am very appreciative of his contributions to the community and future students.

And, of course, I don't want to be lonely on the list right now. It's really awkward... I was expecting Mark to update in batches at a time.

[manda_]

Anyone know where to get Art Fundies textbooks online for cheaper prices? Do most people buy them in the bookstore anyway? I have no idea... any advice would be helpful! lol

[Jonny Dark]

Hi manda

I don't remember fundies textbooks being particularly expensive (or numerous) but that could have changed since i was there.

From what i recall, you need a english textbook, a colour theory book and if you take psychology second semester a text book for that.

(note: The psychology text book is the SAME for both fundies psychology and intro to psychology in Illustration. So you get 2 uses for 1 book... which is pretty cool. That is, if you go into illustration. :) )

I hope you have a great fundies year! Work hard, learn alot and get lots of information for portfolios.

[amarryth]

Anyone out there know anyone looking for someone to fill a room???

Or to make that sentence a little bit simpler....

I NEED A ROOM!

help?

[manda_]

Thanks for the reply and advice Jonny...I appreciate it :)

Amarryth, check places4students.com for a list of rooms etc. I'm sure you'll find something there.

[German-s]

now that we're starting to settle into the new routine, whose in for a little drinkin' and a drawin'?

[SirGreenSock]

Hey Sheridan folks! Hope everyone is settling into classes alright.
I'll be hosting the first (of hopefully many) Drink N Draw of the year at my place in a few weeks. The date right now is Thursday night of Week 3 (September 24th) at my place. I live at a new place this year so either add me of Facebook and Ill send out invites once I make the event on there, or PM/Email me for more info.
Ill make the event by the end of the week!
Cheerio!

[liquidtransience]

Oh sweet, I have Thursdays off and after noon classes on Friday. Nice.

[amarryth]

Yeah, my one night off work. It's meant to be.

[Alex Chow]

EDIT: No longer need a room. Thanks for everyone who contacted me!

[SenEnd]

Oh hell yeah time to start working on my portfolio! Lets get this thing rolling! Who's applying for 2010-2011? :D

[Cherry_Cheesecake100]

I will be! I'm working my butt off trying to get good enough. Good luck to both of us, eh?

[pleasance]

Oh hell yeah time to start working on my portfolio! Lets get this thing rolling! Who's applying for 2010-2011? :D

Hey, how do you guys know what to put in your portfolio?

I'm interested in applying to art school, but I don't know how or where to start. I was thinking of doing the Art Fundamentals course at Sheridan but it seems like it's strictly fine arts and won't allow me to explore. How will I know if graphic design or illustration or animation is really for me?

There are several community colleges in the toronto area that offer similar courses like George Brown College's Art and Design Foundation, but I'm not sure about the course or the quality of teaching.

[Jonny Dark]

Hey, how do you guys know what to put in your portfolio?

I'm interested in applying to art school, but I don't know how or where to start. I was thinking of doing the Art Fundamentals course at Sheridan but it seems like it's strictly fine arts and won't allow me to explore. How will I know if graphic design or illustration or animation is really for me?

There are several community colleges in the toronto area that offer similar courses like George Brown College's Art and Design Foundation, but I'm not sure about the course or the quality of teaching.


to pleasance:

question one: you don't need a portfolio for Art Fundamentals. It's unoffically designed as a kind of year long portfolio creation course for the degree programs: Illustration and Animation.

Question Two: Art fundimentals actually sounds to me at least, almost perfectly suited for you. (but always remember i'm a stranger on the internet... its your life so do the research yourself too!) I took it a few years ago and at the time, i totally thought i wanted to do animation but as we went through the year it became very clear that my true calling was illustration. You do graphic design work in John Parker's Design class in fundies. (fundies = art fundamentals) I've got friends from fundies who are now doing the graphic design programs at other schools. That's something to keep in mind too... getting your fundies certificate is a good first step towards your true specialty at Sheridan or other schools. Art fundies is designed for the person who knows they want to do art but doesn't know what kind yet.

Final Question/comment: I can't speak for other schools. You'll have to find the "George Brown information thread" or something like that! but from what i know of Sheridan they were top of the line teachers who took me from very amateur to the level needed to get into illustration. (in basically one semester too since illustration and animation portfolios are due sometime after christmas break. Also don't worry you'll know well before that time which direction you want to go in.)

Hope this helps!

tl:dr - Lazy bum, read the whole thing! :)

[pleasance]

to pleasance:

question one: you don't need a portfolio for Art Fundamentals. It's unoffically designed as a kind of year long portfolio creation course for the degree programs: Illustration and Animation.

Question Two: Art fundimentals actually sounds to me at least, almost perfectly suited for you. (but always remember i'm a stranger on the internet... its your life so do the research yourself too!) I took it a few years ago and at the time, i totally thought i wanted to do animation but as we went through the year it became very clear that my true calling was illustration. You do graphic design work in John Parker's Design class in fundies. (fundies = art fundamentals) I've got friends from fundies who are now doing the graphic design programs at other schools. That's something to keep in mind too... getting your fundies certificate is a good first step towards your true specialty at Sheridan or other schools. Art fundies is designed for the person who knows they want to do art but doesn't know what kind yet.

Final Question/comment: I can't speak for other schools. You'll have to find the "George Brown information thread" or something like that! but from what i know of Sheridan they were top of the line teachers who took me from very amateur to the level needed to get into illustration. (in basically one semester too since illustration and animation portfolios are due sometime after christmas break. Also don't worry you'll know well before that time which direction you want to go in.)

Hope this helps!

tl:dr - Lazy bum, read the whole thing! :)

Thanks a lot for the reply, very informative!

But do you know if there is any chance I'd be able take a few courses alongside this Art Fundamentals course?

It looks pretty intensive with 5 courses each term. I was hoping to be able to to go university at the same time while doing this course.

Also, there are so many facets of art, my interests are not limited to illustration, animation and graphic design. I'd also like to try product design or industrial design. I'm just plain unsure!! I don't think a course could possibly cover all aspects of art so what's a student supposed to do?

(Was the lazy bum comment directed at me? Haha, I should read the whole thread, you mean?

[SenEnd]

Thanks a lot for the reply, very informative!

But do you know if there is any chance I'd be able take a few courses alongside this Art Fundamentals course?

It looks pretty intensive with 5 courses each term. I was hoping to be able to to go university at the same time while doing this course.

Also, there are so many facets of art, my interests are not limited to illustration, animation and graphic design. I'd also like to try product design or industrial design. I'm just plain unsure!! I don't think a course could possibly cover all aspects of art so what's a student supposed to do?

(Was the lazy bum comment directed at me? Haha, I should read the whole thread, you mean?

tl:dr means To long didn't read. Useally when people say "tldr" in a post they will summerize the whole post in a sentance or to incass you do not want to read the whole original post.

Honestly though you don't do tldr when your answering someones question XD They asked a question they will read your reply!

Anyways, I'm going to start working on my portfolio for Sheridan today. I'm gunning for animation :D Wehha! Any other's going for 2010-2011?

[amarryth]

pleasance, it's a full course load.. if your heart is in going to university do that instead... but you'd kill yourself trying to successfully do both. pick a direction. it's one year. fundies is great for giving you the chance to dabble with everything... i can't speak for the opportunity that animation gives.. but with the illustration program you could totally venture off to product or industrial design.. we split into 2 streams after first year of illy..... this is from someone who was pretty set on animation when i started fundies. less than 2 months in, i knew where i wanted to be.

[xshay12000x]

a question for animation students at sheridan :)
does the program divide into 2d and 3d later on? and is sheridan strong for 3d computer animation?
thanks in advance~

[thomasaurus]

xshay12000x: The BA Animation program teaches both disciplines, starting with traditional 2d, then Maya classes start later on. Its up to the student to determine their focus, and many from this years graduating class are doing 3d films.

[Thuberbaer]

Any other's going for 2010-2011?

I'm also applying for animation 2010-2011. By the way, did you ever try polyphasic sleep? I saw your DA journal a few weeks ago.

I wonder if I'm the only international applicant from the US. It doesn't seem very common.

[Winona]

Amarryth...what factors made you do a complete turn around and decide that illustration was for you, instead of animation? :P I wonder if that'll happen to me. I'm pretty sure animation is what I want though...when I compare the portfolio requirements for both programs I get more excited about animation's, and I did enjoy making a portfolio for animation last year even though my life drawings are what threw off my final score, but I guess that doesn't necessarily mean anything at this point in time.

[SirGreenSock]

Amarryth...what factors made you do a complete turn around and decide that illustration was for you, instead of animation? :P I wonder if that'll happen to me. I'm pretty sure animation is what I want though...when I compare the portfolio requirements for both programs I get more excited about animation's, and I did enjoy making a portfolio for animation last year even though my life drawings are what threw off my final score, but I guess that doesn't necessarily mean anything at this point in time.

Looking at the portfolio requirements is the wrong way to go about it. The portfolio is just a set of skills you should already have to get into the programs, not what you will be doing in the program. If you're not sure where you fit in and dont have a chance to come down and check out the work on the walls, then take a look at the sketchbooks by sheridan students in the different programs here on CA. That'd give you a better idea of what sorts of skills and interests are emphasized in each program/stream.

[Winona]

Looking at the portfolio requirements is the wrong way to go about it. The portfolio is just a set of skills you should already have to get into the programs, not what you will be doing in the program. If you're not sure where you fit in and dont have a chance to come down and check out the work on the walls, then take a look at the sketchbooks by sheridan students in the different programs here on CA. That'd give you a better idea of what sorts of skills and interests are emphasized in each program/stream.

Well yes that is definitely true. Just giving that as an example more or less, though now that you mention it it doesn't seem like a good one. :P I'm in Art Fundies now, so I've been able to look at the work on the walls. Of course I enjoy the artwork put up regardless of the program it's from...but I do find my eye catches the animation work the most. Which, again, doesn't mean it's the right program for me, just saying. :)

[SirGreenSock]

Well if it seems like the right program it probably is. I didn't realize you were already at Sheridan, so you should have good idea of what you want by this point. I wasn't sure which program was for me until I was working on the portfolios, during which time I decided to focus on illustration. And then again in illustration I didnt decide which stream to go into until the last month of last semester of first year, but once one felt right I knew i'd be making the right decision.
So obviously go with animation if thats what feels right.

[anonymoose.]

Hello, hello!
I've posted here before and I've mainly just lurked afterwards- I was the one that was all confused about whether or not to go to OCAD or Sheridan? (I'm in my senior year of High School).
Well, I've decided to apply to both and see which one will take me- but I'm really hoping to get into the animation program.

ANYWAYS, I was just wondering...
how does everyone like it at Sheridan? I've been reading a lot of articles about schools and what not and the Toronto Star guide says that a lot of students complain about the suburban setting of the school.

Is it really that boring?

I'm freaking ouuuut!

[Winona]

ANYWAYS, I was just wondering...
how does everyone like it at Sheridan? I've been reading a lot of articles about schools and what not and the Toronto Star guide says that a lot of students complain about the suburban setting of the school.

Is it really that boring?

I'm freaking ouuuut!

It depends what you like really. I'm not a city person, which helped me in deciding Sheridan as opposed to some of the other schools I was considering. Seeing as I'm not a big fan of really busy and bustling places, I very much like the location of Sheridan; even so...when I compare Oakville to my hometown, there is quite a lot more to do here than there. But yah, I guess it comes down to what you prefer, as well as what you like to do with your time. I personally am perfectly content being alone and drawing, or browsing the web; I don't need big social settings and events to keep my life in check.

[RyerOrdStar]

I would never live in Oakville, but for going to school there it's perfect. There's nothing to do there, so there's plenty of time to work hard at school (which is what I want). And you can always go to Toronto on the weekends for fun, it's just a short GO train ride away.

[alffla]

hi all, im' looking to apply for illustration for.. 2010!

seems like they just updated their website, and haven't linked up all the files properly yet.

anyone know if the illustration portfolio requirements are still the same? :S

[alffla]

bump, really need to get this info1 :(

[Ryn]

bump, really need to get this info1 :(

Call the school and ask. Chances are that this years will be the same as last year's, but that's also a chance you don't want to take.

[kennygeeze]

hi all, im' looking to apply for illustration for.. 2010!

seems like they just updated their website, and haven't linked up all the files properly yet.

anyone know if the illustration portfolio requirements are still the same? :S

Although sometimes the stuff on the requirements does change.... (back in 2002 there was a photo collage assignment as a part of the 4 step drawing test -- but disappeared from the requirements in 2003) not that much has changed in the last seven years.

With that said I think you need to change your philosophy on the requirements and not wait to start practicing and doing these pieces until you have the final copy of the requirements in your hands. In all likely-hood even someone who starts the test a couple months before the due date will likely do some of the pieces more than once.

You're going to be drawing A LOT once you're in illustration... constantly if you can handle it. Starting with the old requirements is probably a good start... and unless something odd happens then those assignments will be in the new reqs too. If not then at least you practiced precisely the skills the profs are looking for.

They require a sketchbook under both options. It's mentioned at least several times on the requirements... a sketchbook is important to them. That alone could keep you really busy between now and when the real requirements are released.

They don't send out or post the new year's portfolio requirements until January most times anyways. Even fundies students already at the school build their illustration portfolios up to february off of the previous year's requirements.

I honestly can't see them posting reqs in October 2009 for a portfolio that's due in March 2010.

Complete a full portfolio off the old requirements now... you'll probably be re-doing a better one a few weeks before the real one's due anyways.

[alffla]

thanks for the replies! :S

[OttoRobba]

Hi there folks.
First time poster, longtime lurker.

I too am looking to apply for Sheridan for 2010.
I read on their website that the deadline for applying is February 1st - But is it the same deadline for sending in portfolios?
I'm honestly hoping to have a bit more time than that. xD

I'm sorry if I missed the answer to this question, this topic is really big and I'm trying to spend as much time practicing as I can. So, thank you for the patience of reading this possibly-often-replied-question. :)

[Ryn]

OttoRobba, no worries on not reading through the whole thread, it is seriously colossal. :P

February 1st sounds right for the applications - and that does indeed include your portfolio. Keep in mind if you're sending in a physical portfolio (aka, you don't live close enough to bring it in person), it has to be there by February 1st. So in actuality you'll have to be finished/have it in the mail at least a week before the deadline, to be safe. When I was applying I started my portfolio work around now, and worked at it a lot over the summer break (but I took my long ass time, mind you).

Hope that helps. Best of luck with your portfolio!

[Storm Serenade]

Does anybody know where to find the .pdf file of all the courses and their costs? I can't find it anywhere on the site. I did the first time, but this time it's hiding...I hate college/uni websites. DX

[Ryn]

Here's the tuition fee list:
http://www.sheridanc.on.ca/Admissions/Fees%20and%20Financial%20Aid/%7E/media/WF_02_OTR_002/fees_2009_v3.ashx

[RyerOrdStar]

Does anybody know where to find the .pdf file of all the courses and their costs? I can't find it anywhere on the site. I did the first time, but this time it's hiding...I hate college/uni websites. DX

That's because they redesigned the site to be completely un-navigateable :)

[OttoRobba]

@Ryn: Thank you :)
The fact that you pulled it off starting near the deadline gives me a lot of hope since I literally only started working on my portfolio this week. Been working a lot everyday and plan to keep it up. So, double thanks - for the reply and the hope xD

@S.Serenade: Mind you, international students have to pay a wee bit more. Refer to this one if you are not a canadian resident http://www.sheridanc.on.ca/services/international%20centre/prospective%20students/~/media/WF_03_Intl_006/Fees_international_2010_11.ashx

[Ryn]

@Ryn: Thank you :)
The fact that you pulled it off starting near the deadline gives me a lot of hope since I literally only started working on my portfolio this week. Been working a lot everyday and plan to keep it up. So, double thanks - for the reply and the hope xD

No probs! Also, I wouldn't really consider this to be late in the game, at all. I've had people comment that they were surprised I had started my portfolio so *early*! You definitely don't want to start too too early, because then the portfolio might not be a good indicator of your skill level.

As long as you're working away at it consistently you'll be just fine. It may be helpful to draft up a time management schedule for yourself... so if you have 11 weeks or so, try and have a portfolio piece completed by the end of each week. Mark the 'due dates' on a calendar. Of course, push yourself to do more when time allows. But by following this structure, you'll finish in plenty of time as long as you hit your sub-deadlines. It may help the work load to be less intimidating while still keeping your progress in check. This way of working is definitely not everyone's cup of a tea, but I want to throw it out there because it helped me.

Best of luck!

[amarryth]

Umm.. have things changed that much since I applied? I'm pretty sure portfolios are due later in February.. they usually send you info on that after they process your application...

I remember mine being due during Sheridan's winter reading week... I can't see how they would manage to process portfolios while everyone is in the school..

[flash jordan]

Anybody in fundies find it a bit of a waste of time? I love the atmosphere but some of the courses/teaches (I won't list names lol) are just ugh. Not to mention the classes are huge. I really hope animation will be better :)

Any sort of CA sheridan activities going on? If so I'd def. be interested.

[BlueSpot]

Anybody in fundies find it a bit of a waste of time? I love the atmosphere but some of the courses/teaches (I won't list names lol) are just ugh. Not to mention the classes are huge. I really hope animation will be better :)


Life drawing and painting are a waste of time? Even "imaging systems" and "design" ( I forget what the classes are called) are valuable skills in both animation and illustration. Everything you learn in any class can be applied to concept art, entertainment design, animation. Anything! These are the basics that any artist needs to know. So just keep on trucking through the assignments and find something to learn from every project!

[waidot]

I went to the open house this past weekend, I really like Sheridan! Were any of you guys there touring? Any students as guides? I saw some students working on some landscape project thing, looked really cool. I was the short asian guy with glasses, my friend and I were lingering the art area, I was trying to look at EVERYTHING, fun!

[anonymoose.]

I went! It was awesome, I'm really glad I decided to go. I was the short asian girl with the ridiculous boots that I chose to wear because I was silly. (:

Did you visit the animation hallway? I didn't go on any tours, I basically just walked around with my friend, but I've heard some things about horses and tigers being brought to the school.

AWESOME.

I really hope I make it for animation, now. 8D

SPEAKING OF, apparently the portfolio requirements aren't really the ones that are on the website...it's something that they give to you AFTER you apply ?

I've already sent in my application to Ontariocolleges.ca, but it's a little early, so maybe that's why they haven't sent me the portfolio requirements yet? EEP. I'M SO CONFUSED.
HALP PLZ.

Also geez, I wrote a novel. SORRY. ;_;

[Alex Chow]

The portfolio requirements are on the Sheridan Animation main website. You can find it here: http://www.sheridanc.on.ca/Admissions/Explore/Programs/Programs%20A-Z%20Index/~/media/WF_02_OTR_002/portfolio_requirements/app_pbaaa.ashx

These requirements are last year's (for the Sept 2009 term) but they rarely change at all. There were very very very small changes from 2008 to 2009 (I think the number of action poses for life drawing or character changed but by a small number) but they didn't make me spend more than a small amount of time to fix. Either way, it's a good time to start now.

Good luck! Yeah, I believe there were horses on campus this year. There are photos of elephants on campus that I've seen too.

[iven]

Alex Chow- Thank you very much for posting that, was there a change from
this year 2009 to the next year 2010 ?!?

Because I thought not !?!
Oh by the way I am working hard on my portfolio peaces I appreciate any
advice or critique.

:bow:

[Alex Chow]

Alex Chow- Thank you very much for posting that, was there a change from
this year 2009 to the next year 2010 ?!?


Nobody knows because the 2010 requirements haven't been finalized yet but it rarely changes between years and, in the cases where it has, it is very very tiny changes. It's not something that should stop you from starting right now. I apologize if, in the most absolutely fluke situation, that they change every portfolio requirement this year :)

I wish I could help you for the portfolio but I am definitely not certified for it since I barely got in. Have you asked Bobby or the rest of Imaginism?

[waidot]

I went! It was awesome, I'm really glad I decided to go. I was the short asian girl with the ridiculous boots that I chose to wear because I was silly. (:

Did you visit the animation hallway? I didn't go on any tours, I basically just walked around with my friend, but I've heard some things about horses and tigers being brought to the school.

AWESOME.

I really hope I make it for animation, now. 8D

SPEAKING OF, apparently the portfolio requirements aren't really the ones that are on the website...it's something that they give to you AFTER you apply ?

I've already sent in my application to Ontariocolleges.ca, but it's a little early, so maybe that's why they haven't sent me the portfolio requirements yet? EEP. I'M SO CONFUSED.
HALP PLZ.

Also geez, I wrote a novel. SORRY. ;_;

Don't worry about writing so much, I'm insanely excited too, haha.

I got the requirements from one of the people at the info booth things? She was a teacher, I believe, she gave me some sheets and talked about previous portfolios and showed me examples.

Yeah, I visited the animation hallway, I tried to peer into a bunch of rooms where students were working after the tour, nosy me. & I still have to apply to ontariocolleges.ca, you're way ahead of me, I should do that soon.

HOLY APPLECAKES, nervous about portfolio stuff.

Going for Illustration, btw. I think more are going into animation, not sure, haha. Good luck to everyone who's applying!

[flash jordan]

Life drawing and painting are a waste of time? Even "imaging systems" and "design" ( I forget what the classes are called) are valuable skills in both animation and illustration. Everything you learn in any class can be applied to concept art, entertainment design, animation. Anything! These are the basics that any artist needs to know. So just keep on trucking through the assignments and find something to learn from every project!

I was simply asking if anyone shares my feelings about art fundamentals. My opinion is solely based on my anecdotal experience of the first semesters (ie. quality of profs, course content, class size, etc.). I have my fingers crossed for second semester. :lounge:

[Oden]

Hey, I have a question for all you sheridan folks out there...


I'm not interested in a degree, but Sheridan looks like a great school and I've been thinking about applying in a year or two:

I'm curious, though--assuming I apply to the illustration program,and actually make it in--how locked into the courses am I?

Just looking at the first year Illustration courses, there are a few that I don't really want to waste money/time on, such as "Composition and Rhetoric," and on the other hand, there are a few classes in animation that look really useful, like "Introduction to Dynamic Anatomy".

is it like a university where you're able to take any courses from any program at any time that look interesting, as long as you have the prerequisites, or is it a bit different? I don't really have experience with career colleges. Like I said, I'm not interested in a degree, I'm just interested in making the most out of a year or two there. :)


thanks a lot!

Owen

[SirGreenSock]

Sheridan is very strict with the courses you take, there really isnt much flexibility like there is in universities. You dont get to pick any courses until 3rd and 4th year, and as far as I know it is sometimes possible to take additional courses if you can fit them into your schedule and its not too full, but it costs you extra (i think something in the $500-$600 range per semester)
Unfortunately now that Sheridan is a degree program you have to take courses that have little to do with illustration such as Composition and Rhetoric which are required to get a university degree. Not much you can do about that. But look on the bright side of that, the only way you can get a job abroad nowadays is if you have a degree, otherwise its too much work for the company to bother struggling to get you a visa.
I think a better solution to trying to get additional courses is to befriend an animator, or get an animator tutor to help you in those areas.

[Alex Chow]

Illustration and Animation are both dead-tight in scheduling with the exception of breadth electives. Yes, composition and rhetoric isn't the best course in the world but at least it's fairly easy.

[xshay12000x]

does anyone know the dimensions for the portfolio requirements that sheridan wants us to do for animation major? because i'd like to start working on it nowww, based on last year's requirements since they rarely change. : )

[Demonique768]

The don't really care about dimensions as long as its easy to open and organized inside. I'll be one of the people collecting portfolios this year :D Lookout

[xshay12000x]

re'demonique
so do we mail in origiinals?

The don't really care about dimensions as long as its easy to open and organized inside. I'll be one of the people collecting portfolios this year :D Lookout

[Ryn]

If you don't live close enough to the school to retrieve your portfolio after the reviews, do not mail in originals. I mean, you can - they just won't be returned to you. Just scan/print them; keep them to a reasonable size for the mail. It also doesn't hurt to state the original size on the back of the copy, if the original is some weird size (like if you have photos of big paintings).

[xshay12000x]

If you don't live close enough to the school to retrieve your portfolio after the reviews, do not mail in originals. I mean, you can - they just won't be returned to you. Just scan/print them; keep them to a reasonable size for the mail. It also doesn't hurt to state the original size on the back of the copy, if the original is some weird size (like if you have photos of big paintings).

thank you! this would be much easier for me since i prefer working in larger pieces =]

[waidot]

Quick question: After I apply @ ontariocolleges.ca, will Sheridan send me any information in terms of portfolio day and all that stuff?

[Storm Serenade]

Okay, this is really time-sensitive, so hopefully I'll be able to get some help before I'm screwed. I got a firm acceptance (joy!) but the Ontario colleges website has been really screwy, I don't see a confirmation notice anywhere, but Sheridan has sent me my fee invoices, so I wonder if I still need to confirm. Or if I can give money first, and then confirm afterward.

Aside from going in person, what is the most immediate way to get fees paid? I'm looking at the telephone option, as I can't see how that would take days, but I really rather not make a hard assumption and screw myself over more. I wish you could pay online, somehow. Augh. DX

[Ryn]

First off, have you tried calling the registrar's office at Sheridan? They deal with this kind of stuff all the time and will probably be your best bet, advice-wise, atm.
I think the fastest way to pay fees but not do it in person is to fax in the fee form (they should have emailed you a pdf), or do it over the phone. But, this is speculative. Call Sheridan Registrar, explain the situation, ask them what the best option is for you atm. They are very helpful and don't bite. :)
You'll have to wait until Monday morning to call though. :<

[anonymoose.]

HOLY MOLY, BATMAN!

Yeah, so, I received in the mail not one, but TWOOO letters from Sheridan, whoo! And they are both in regards to applying, my AccessSheridan account, and most importantly the portfolio requirements that I've been waiting for! Dun dun duuunn!

So, it looks like we have to apply by February 1st, but have the Portfolio finished until at least March 1st, which is when the portfolio evaluation frenzy starts.

To my understanding, those who live within 80km from the school have to hand the portfolio in personally, but won't actually be there for the evaluation?

It doesn't look as though there are any changes from the "sample" portfolio requirements that they have up on the site, either!

I hope that answers a few questions to those lurkers out there, good luck to everyone who's applying!

beeteedubs, I'm aiming for animation. Wish me luuuck <3

[crowKAKAWWW]

Hey does anyone know the level of completeness they expect in each piece for the portfolio?

[amarryth]

make sure they are able to see your structural work.. the thought process and understanding is more important than your ability to render.

[Amazing Action Ape]

anyone interested in buying an Out of print copy of TARZAN CHRONICLES (the disney TARZAN artbook) for 100$ or best offer? the book is incredibly well kept, excellent condition, goes on amazon.ca for 200-400 used.

email me at bradenpoirier@yahoo.com or PM if you're interested. LOCAL sheridan kids only baby.

[Storm Serenade]

First off, have you tried calling the registrar's office at Sheridan? They deal with this kind of stuff all the time and will probably be your best bet, advice-wise, atm.
I think the fastest way to pay fees but not do it in person is to fax in the fee form (they should have emailed you a pdf), or do it over the phone. But, this is speculative. Call Sheridan Registrar, explain the situation, ask them what the best option is for you atm. They are very helpful and don't bite. :)
You'll have to wait until Monday morning to call though. :<

Though, it is way, way overdue, thank you so much for your reply! 8)

I got it all sorted out! Now, I just need to find a room, somewhere. D8

[Visona]

Hello everyone I'm applying to animation 2010, and i have a few quick questions:

for storyboarding: all the examples online I've seen, they are all done on 4 panel storyboard template, where can i get those? i've done my story board just on just a 8.5 x 11 paper, will sheridan not accept my portfolio if its not done on the 4 panel storyboard?

also let me get this straight, i have to APPLY to ontariocolleges by feb 1, but do i HAVE to send in my portfolio by that date as well? or is it you apply first, and submit portfolio later like during march?

[friedikins]

Hello everyone I'm applying to animation 2010, and i have a few quick questions:

for storyboarding: all the examples online I've seen, they are all done on 4 panel storyboard template, where can i get those? i've done my story board just on just a 8.5 x 11 paper, will sheridan not accept my portfolio if its not done on the 4 panel storyboard?

also let me get this straight, i have to APPLY to ontariocolleges by feb 1, but do i HAVE to send in my portfolio by that date as well? or is it you apply first, and submit portfolio later like during march?

Hey, I applied for next year's animation too :) Maybe I can help a little...

For the storyboard, they will provide it for you. Usually after you've applied, they will send you a mail with your username and password so you can log in into their portal, where you can see you application status and all the requirements needed. That's where you'll get the storyboard (you download it) and all the applicant information.

As for the application, since I'm an international student, I don't apply through ontariocolleges, so I don't know much. But for me, I didn't submit the portfolio right away. I applied first, then will submit it later on the first week of March.

Hope that helps :)

[NMartin]

Hey guys! I've been lurking around this Sheridan thread for ages, but I've never gathered enough courage to post something...

After both of my Illustration and Animation portfolios were utterly rejected in March 2009, I've decided to give in and have a go at the Art Fundamentals program. Now that my first semester is through, I'm actually glad that I was rejected and that I went for Fundies instead. This year, I was asked to be a volunteer (hourly pay!) in the Open House for the Fundies program, where I was able to draw from a professional model that dressed as a cowboy and a chef for 4 whole hours. I think Animation students need to wait until they're in third year to have this grand opportunity (I don't remember which year in Illustration). A few of my assignments were also displayed in the corridors among other talented students in our program, which was a neat experience. Looking at my works while walking back and forth from class to class made me realize how much work I still need to do!!

In my opinion, the program is as useless as you make it out to be. Don't depend on the curriculum and professors alone, ask them to review your portfolio and your assignments outside of the classroom! The true magic begins when you work the extra mile.

I still have another semester left and it only gets better from there! I can't wait! I have a good feeling for this year's portfolio review compared to my last one.

[Storm Serenade]

How long does the language assessment have to be (if they assign a length at all), and how many topics did you have to choose from? I spoke with somebody in one of the offices, and it's apparently supposed to be really short? I have to do it tomorrow, but I also have very important plans on the same day, so I'm just trying to think of how much time I might need to write it.

And while I'm preeeeeeetty sure it was mentioned and discussed in the thread earlier, I don't remember the exact details, but I had a question about applying to Illustration, as well. I don't have University English, and I think somebody else was in the same boat, but was it possible to just take a test or a small course, or something to make up for it?

[kennygeeze]

In my opinion, the program is as useless as you make it out to be. Don't depend on the curriculum and professors alone, ask them to review your portfolio and your assignments outside of the classroom! The true magic begins when you work the extra mile.

cool, :)
Be sure to keep that thought close even once you get into your program of choice, and during. It's a good philosophy. :)

I don't have University English, and I think somebody else was in the same boat, but was it possible to just take a test or a small course, or something to make up for it?

Not that this is a very serious answer, but you you could take art fundamentals.

I'd suggest just contacting the registrar to see if there's anything you could do to make up for it.

[Ryn]

And while I'm preeeeeeetty sure it was mentioned and discussed in the thread earlier, I don't remember the exact details, but I had a question about applying to Illustration, as well. I don't have University English, and I think somebody else was in the same boat, but was it possible to just take a test or a small course, or something to make up for it?

I'm a little confused here, but I'm going to try to help you out anyway! I was in Nova Scotia for high school so we have different names for course denotations, forgive me if I'm totally off base here.

When you say 'university english' do you mean, a grade 12 high school english course? Or do you actually mean a general english 101 type course from a university? Because you don't need a university level english to get into illustration (you have to a university level in 1st year). You also are not required to take a language assessment to get into Illustration.

I hope that helps. :x

[Storm Serenade]

I'm a little confused here, but I'm going to try to help you out anyway! I was in Nova Scotia for high school so we have different names for course denotations, forgive me if I'm totally off base here.

When you say 'university english' do you mean, a grade 12 high school english course? Or do you actually mean a general english 101 type course from a university? Because you don't need a university level english to get into illustration (you have to a university level in 1st year). You also are not required to take a language assessment to get into Illustration.

I hope that helps. :x

Oh right, I forgot about different provinces having different names, my bad. You're not off-base at all! Yes, I meant an English from a grade 12 course.

From the Admission Requirements page:

"Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, including these required courses:

* English, Grade 12 (ENG4U)"

The U designates University. What I have is ENG4C, for college level, but I'm going to be taking Art Fundamentals, so I was wondering if I could use that year in place of having the English. Hope that clears things up a bit. But yeah, I'll definitely talk to somebody in the offices. Thanks a lot! 8D

[iven]

Visona:
Hello everyone I'm applying to animation 2010, and i have a few quick questions:

for storyboarding: all the examples online I've seen, they are all done on 4 panel storyboard template, where can i get those?

Hi everyone, I have the Sheridan storyboard sheet at my website, look for the button,
with the pencil and the camera/ click/ first button top corner left FREEBEES.

I took one sheet and I :pump: it up to letter size,.....

I am doing my Portfolio here and it's great, http://portfolioworkshop.com/

Gerard Sternik and Vince Peets are the founders of this workshop
and they are Registered Users in here, you can refer
to me if they ask you !!

[xshay12000x]

hi everyone
iam wondering how to register for the "mail in" option for portfolio assessment?
the options i see are Feb 26, March 1,2,3,4 on the registration page, but i don't see "mail in" option : (

[jje1000]

Hey everyone, I'm applying to 2010 Animation too :D

Just a few quick questions about storyboarding- the requirements say that we need to use a character that Sheridan provides to us. I remember that someone said that they would send us an e-mail with a link to the resources once we registered.

I've already registered more than a week ago and paid my fees, so when should I get this message?

Thanks!

[Cherry_Cheesecake100]

They'll send you a letter in the mail with a username and password. You use that to log into Access Sheridan on their website, and that's where you download the portfolio requirements, including the provided characters.

[waidot]

hi everyone
iam wondering how to register for the "mail in" option for portfolio assessment?
the options i see are Feb 26, March 1,2,3,4 on the registration page, but i don't see "mail in" option : (

You're going into Animation, right? I'm taking illustration and the portfolio assessments days listed for me are on either March 5th or 6th.

Just making suuuuuuuure, thanks.

Good luck on portfolios, everyone!

[Demonique768]

All hail I havent drawn anything all winter. Damn Artist block!

[friedikins]

All hail I havent drawn anything all winter. Damn Artist block!

Woops, hey there my twin. I haven't drawn anything either :P I feel terrible... but at least I have some idea for my character right now...

[waidot]

Hi, has there been anyone who didn't get accepted into Art Fundies, even with all requirements? Do they usually have a full class? I had only applied for Illus. and Fundies and it'd be terrible if I got rejected by both programs..

[Storm Serenade]

@Waidot, when I applied, the program was full, but this was a good 4-5 or so weeks ago, and there'd been movement since then. If you do, perchance, get wait-listed, they go by grades, regardless of how early or late you might have applied. But as for being flat out rejected? Everybody, and I do mean <i>everybody</i> that I've talked to says that everybody gets into Art Fundies. It isn't a competitive course, so I guess as long as you meet the requirements, you're in! 8D

That said, gaaaaaaaaaaaaaah, first day, tomorrow! ;____; Nervous as all hell. And a bit irritated. I'm more than a little envious of everybody who gets to live in close proximity to the school. >_>

[drello]

Hey people,

Could anyone explain me the difference between the Mailed In Portfolio Assessment and the other one ? What about the dates indicated, what do they stand for? Thank you all!

[Storm Serenade]

I think the difference is, drello, that you have the option of mailing it in if you live far enough away from the school. If you don't, you're S.O.L. and have to bring it in. I'm gonna hazard a guess and say that the date for mailing it in is set later, likely to allow for a delivery time.

Aaaannnd, my own question is to those who have taken art fundies: how much cash did you guys drop on supplies for the year?

[My57]

This has probably already been asked but hell its 139 pages and I'm not going through them all tonight (I gots school tomorrow).

What are my chances of getting into illustration without fundamentals? I'm still gonna sign up for fundamentals (I'm in the process right now of signing up). Can someone who is in the course come by my sketchbook and give a little crit? The only problem with my sketchbook is that It doesn't have my traditional drawings/paintings or anything (which I think look better).

I am going to follow the guide for what they want in their portfolio (obviously).

Grrr... I'm to nervous for this.

[REDiceT]

Hey guys, this thread has been a lot of help! But I still have a few questions and I believe this hasn't been brought up yet. (Or at least I think it hasn't. I didn't read through all those pages, but I did read a fair amount...)

When I was signing up for Sheridan's animation program, I didn't see an option for financial aid/student loans?

Anyways, I've paid the application fee already and waiting for the official portfolio package! When should I expect the package to come? A couple weeks?

Right now, I'm using the sample package they give on their website for practice, but I need to practice drawing Alex/Adam! (The cat or boy you're required to draw.)

Also, where can I get some cheap/possibly free? life drawing sessions/classes? I didn't take my school's life drawing classes because I originally intended to go as an English major, and made my major switch just about a month ago. (I can't switch courses anymore.)

[My57]

I went to sign up for the courses today and they only have the 2009 course listed (obviously closed)>.> When is it possible to sign up for 2010?

I forgot to check my high school for sign up times, I know university is starting but I am unsure about college >.<

[Ryn]

Lots of people have questions accumulating, so I'll do my best to answer. Keep in mind I am but one Illustration student, so take my answers with a grain of salt as I am of course subject to inaccuracies. :3

Hi, has there been anyone who didn't get accepted into Art Fundies, even with all requirements? Do they usually have a full class? I had only applied for Illus. and Fundies and it'd be terrible if I got rejected by both programs..
Everyone gets into fundies. I have never heard of someone not getting into it. It's really good income for Sheridan, so they will increase the number/size of classes to accommodate as many applicants as possible. If fundies is your Illustration backup, don't worry about not getting in both!

Hey people,

Could anyone explain me the difference between the Mailed In Portfolio Assessment and the other one ? What about the dates indicated, what do they stand for? Thank you all!
For people living near the school, you hand your portfolio over to the faculty in the morning, kill time for a few hours, then pick it up in the afternoon. Usually there are two or three days where the in-person assessments take place.
Mail-in portfolios are for people who live too far from the school to personally hand it in. The deadline for mail-in portfolios is typically several days to a week before the hand-in deadline. This is so that the faculty can collect all the portfolios from the post, open up packages, get them organized, etc.
Sheridan should have sent you an information package that clearly states the deadline for mail-ins and the deadlines for hand-ins. If they're didn't, give them a call at the registrar's and ask.

I think the difference is, drello, that you have the option of mailing it in if you live far enough away from the school. If you don't, you're S.O.L. and have to bring it in. I'm gonna hazard a guess and say that the date for mailing it in is set later, likely to allow for a delivery time.
Mail-in date is always earlier than the hand-ins, not later. The faculty evaluates mail-ins and hand-ins at the same time, so the mail in deadline is early to make sure they are all collected/organized/removed from envelopes in time for the evaluations. So if you live outside the radius for reasonably bringing in your portfolio, make sure you take into account 1) your shortened deadline 2) an allowance of time for your portfolio to travel through the post.
(Sorry, I'm not trying to call you our or correct you, just trying to minimized confusion and subsequently worried people!)


What are my chances of getting into illustration without fundamentals? I'm still gonna sign up for fundamentals (I'm in the process right now of signing up). Can someone who is in the course come by my sketchbook and give a little crit? The only problem with my sketchbook is that It doesn't have my traditional drawings/paintings or anything (which I think look better).

I am going to follow the guide for what they want in their portfolio (obviously).

Grrr... I'm to nervous for this.
There are lots of people who get into illustration and animation without going through fundamentals first. I got into Illustration right out of high school, I know of many people who did; it's not at all uncommon.
Basically, if you keep up with studies, draw whenever you can, and put care into your portfolio, you increase your chances of getting in - whether or not you went through fundies.
Don't be nervous! Don't be scared! Just remember, going to art school is a means to an end. It's a way to get better at art so you can get an awesome art job. Just keep working at your art, keep your passion alive, and whether you get into school now, later, you'll get what you want.
I will stop by your sketchbook in a moment and give you some crits for sure though.

When I was signing up for Sheridan's animation program, I didn't see an option for financial aid/student loans?

Anyways, I've paid the application fee already and waiting for the official portfolio package! When should I expect the package to come? A couple weeks?

Right now, I'm using the sample package they give on their website for practice, but I need to practice drawing Alex/Adam! (The cat or boy you're required to draw.)

Also, where can I get some cheap/possibly free? life drawing sessions/classes? I didn't take my school's life drawing classes because I originally intended to go as an English major, and made my major switch just about a month ago. (I can't switch courses anymore.)
Animation and Illustration are both eligible for student loan assistance (I assume that's what you're asking?)

Your package should come within a couple weeks, but Sheridan is notorious for not being on the ball with mailing stuff out - ESPECIALLY if you live outside Ontario. If you don't get it within a reasonable amount of time, call up the registrar's office and harass them.

If you live anywhere near Sheridan, you can pretty much drop in on life drawing sessions and nobody will check if you're a current student or not. If this is an option for you, send me a PM and I can let you know the times/rooms for life drawing.
Otherwise, try checking local newspapers for independently funded groups (some cities have these), check online for groups, or call up any nearby art schools to see if they have open sessions for a small fee (most art schools will have pretty cheap open sessions).

I went to sign up for the courses today and they only have the 2009 course listed (obviously closed)>.> When is it possible to sign up for 2010?

I forgot to check my high school for sign up times, I know university is starting but I am unsure about college >.<
They should be up quite soon. Just call up the registrar's and ask them when they'll be up/when you can sign up. They probably know and just haven't updated the site yet. They are usually quite helpful and friendly, don't be afraid to call them about stuff like this.

[My57]

Thanks, this guy was a jerk to me and said I wouldn't be able to get into the illustration course on my first try. He didn't even see my portfolio and such. It was my moms friends son or something (who is in the course at the moment). So it made it sound like it was harder to get into then what it first appeared to be. Which is why I'm having a heart attack -_-"

[Ryn]

And he didn't even see your portfolio? What is his basis for that statement then? He's just being mean. Probably trying to make it sound harder than it is so his achievement of being in the course seems greater than it really is. I have run into a few people like that. Just don't listen to the naysayers :3 Don't worry!

[kennygeeze]

Thanks, this guy was a jerk to me and said I wouldn't be able to get into the illustration course on my first try. He didn't even see my portfolio and such. It was my moms friends son or something (who is in the course at the moment). So it made it sound like it was harder to get into then what it first appeared to be. Which is why I'm having a heart attack -_-"

Don't be stressed. :)
I went through art fundamentals and then graduated from the illustration program.

I remember being in your shoes and being very nervous about getting in... Everyday I would eat and sleep being accepted to sheridan -- whether I was actively practicing or not I was still thinking about it. I thought about it all the time. Not being accepted terrified me.
I analyzed the requirements over and over again and the reported statistics for how many portfolios are submitted vs seats in the program I found (at the time was very unsettling)

Now that I'm graduated and have been working in the industry for over a year and a half (I do matte painting and concept art for film)I can think about things concerning art school with more of a clear head.

I'm glad I took fundies. At the time I saw it as a punishment for not being good enough for illustration to take me (although I was also applying the double cohort year)
I was able to go to life-drawing a lot, pick up an amazing drawing tutor in the second semester, and practice in a setting that wasn't as high-pressure as the illustration program itself. Less assignments meant I could spend more time going to extra-life drawing at night -- sometimes going to two sessions in a row. Great fun.
There's.... less time (somewhat) when actually in the degree program to do those things.... although you can still manage to go a lot -- and should.

I found out later had it not been for the higher pressures of the double cohort year my initially rejected portfolio score *could* have been good enough to squeeze me through in a normal application season. I'm happy it didn't.

Art school went by really fast otherwise -- in certain ways I miss it. I definitely don't regret taking all five years. I think I'm a much better for it.

Don't worry about what your friend's mom's gardener's mailman's neighbor thinks whether you can get in on a first try or not. Lots of students do.
People like the guy you mention are generally full of crap -- you'll encounter his kind again when you aspire to the industry and people try to tell you where you can and can't get a job.
I have a job where lots of people told me an 'illustrator' couldn't get one. ;)

I'll give you the advice I was given when I was really stressed about the portfolio. While in fundies back in 2003 I randomly ran into an illustration prof the beginning of my christmas break while dropping off some homework assignments.
I was distressed that I didn't have the talent or skill to get in.

He told me to get a sketchbook and fill it with drawings from observation -- hands and feet he emphasized because lots of students try to avoid them. They're hard to draw. Show competent drawings... practice the drawing test itself in the sketchbook.

You can tell the sketchbook is important to the requirements because on the sheet of paper itself it's mentioned at least three times... it's also the only re-occurring piece aside from the drawing test that appears under both portfolio options.

Another illustration teacher I spoke to later that year told me it's very easy to get accepted to the program on the account that so many potential students submit the wrong things in the portfolio -- very few people actually follow the instructions.
It's hilarious to wait in line on the evaluation day. The assignment says not to mount artwork in heavy metal/glass frames, and they are in line with the big pieces of metal and glass poking their way out of tiny portfolios.
They say 'no anime' but having seen circles of students sitting around after they pick up their portfolio and showing each other their stuff it's evident that lots of them think they know better -- plus plenty of other crazy rule breakers that I forget at this time of night.

I applied and got accepted while many of my friends did not. I submitted a portfolio of drawings -- the ones they asked for, a sketchbook full of more drawings, my best life-drawing, and the best I could do painting wise.

The rejected submitted graphic design homework, tattoo designs, didn't bother including a sketchbook, graffitti, anime, etc. and no life-drawing.

I looked at your sketchbook and I don't think I can answer whether you have the "skill" or not to be accepted. That's no insult towards you (*I* think you have nice drawings :) ), but the final decision gets made by whatever current faculty happens to look at your portfolio.
All you really have to go on is the requirements -- just do your best to follow them, and probably have a pretty good expectation that plenty of arrogant teens and twenty-somethings will be submitting "portfolios" without following them. Just look for the big metal frames on portfolio day.

I'd drop the digital stuff all together until you hand in your portfolio. They really aren't that interested in seeing it. Use traditional media from here on out... "scratch and sniff"
It's nice that you know how to use a tablet going into the program though.
Draw people from life in everyday settings... I saw a picture of your hand when I skimmed your book -- draw more of those... draw your parents from life or your siblings or your dog.... your dog on the couch... couch without dog... draw some scissors, go look for perpective lines out in the real world.

Anyways, hope that helped. There's really no point in being *too* stressed. Fundies is great. It's not a punishment.

The reqs for the illustration program might be challenging stuff, but you'll be a better artist for doing them not matter what happens with your application. That's what really matters.
Art school goes by so fast anyways... If I could go back in time and shorten it to 3 or 4 years, I really wouldn't.

Good luck! :)

[My57]

Thanks, that's a long post there.

I know what ya mean, It's more like this for me: I think I can get in but in the back of my head I have nails going through it from that one guy that pissed me off D:

I was already planning on dropping the digital stuff as well! I read through the samples and plan on doing what they ask and I'm not going to risk losing points over digital. Plus I don't really like my digital drawings that much anyways :P The line work is bad and the only thing I find it useful for is practising colours since I can't paint everyday.

I also like drawing hands and feet (not so much feet) and planned on doing a whole page dedicated to hand drawings! I love looking at my hand for some reason, the form and shape is really interesting compared to other still life's.

By the way for my still life people that I drew, I made them have a platform underneath them to make them look grounded rather then sitting/standing in mid air. I can't draw chairs very well and they mostly look bad so will that hurt me a little? I think I can add in a chair to replace the block but I guess that would be cheating to >.>

[REDiceT]

@ Ryn: Hey! Thanks so much for the answer! Unfortunately, I live quite far from Sheridan, but it's okay, I found another place with drop-in life drawing classes!

I do have another question though, regarding the distance and booking portfolios...

I planned to book an appointment somewhere in the first week of March, take a cab to Sheridan and wait until it's finished its evaluation... (And explore the campus a bit)

But when someone forwarded me an official copy of last year's portfolio package, it said (not in these exact words) "Those who live 80 km or more from Sheridan, please send photocopies of your portfolio by February 27th."

Do I have to? Or are they just suggesting a more convenient means of delivery? Because I think I need all the time I can get to prepare my portfolio! D:

EDIT: A few more questions:

For the 5 personal works, what should I include?? Should I show pics of my paintings that I did at school? (bike painting sorta thing?)

And also, it's fine to draw animals from a taxidermy museum right?

[My57]

I can kinda help with your 5 personal works.

According to Ryn they LOVE still life. So more still life the better. They also do not like fantasy/sci-fi/horror/anime, etc. It says on the sample portfolio requirements:

http://www.sheridanc.on.ca/Programs%20and%20Courses/Full-Time%20Programs/Programs%20A-Z%20Index/~/media/WF_02_OTR_002/portfolio_requirements/app_pbaai.ashx

Try to be original with your pieces like surrealism or something to that extent.

Ryn sent me a link of her old portfolio she used to get in. Some of the images don't work but you can get the idea:

http://lynryn.blogspot.com/2007_01_01_archive.html

- Is that slightly useful?

- No idea about the museum thing.

[REDiceT]

@ My57: Thanks!! That gave me some ideas alright!

Okay, so here's the sum up of what I'm including for my personal works:

1. Gesture drawings
2. My bike/car painting
3. (More) Still life heh heh
4. ??? (Maybe some landscapes?)
5. ??? (Still contemplating for this slot....)

I'm not sure about going abstract since it's not really a strength of mine! D: Hopefully I will think of something on time...

In the meanwhile, I'm open for more suggestions/advice for filling up my 5 personal works section!

[My57]

How about still life with different mediums Like Ink...something else....something else...By that I mean do one still life in ink, another in acrylic another in oils or watercolours. Easy and shows you can work in different mediums.

I got to start working on my other still life projects now...I finished my third still life person and drew my brother playing his DS, which killed my back because I had to get into this weird position for the view i wanted -__-" Tis why still life can be harmful...

[Ryn]

According to Ryn they LOVE still life.

Just to clarify, they want you to work from life. This doesn't necessarily mean still lifes, per se. Just don't heavily reference photos, because they can tell.

[My57]

Its scary that they can tell D:

[anonymoose.]

Aren't sketchbooks allowed to be submitted as part of your 5 personal artworks? For animation, at least, I believe they are as long as the contents are relevant (ie. Hand, feet, people and environment studies, thumbnails, brainstorming, etc.) They apparently love all of that process work stuffs as well. :)
I'm going to Sheridan Monday the 18th for life drawing! :D how exciting! My friend is sneaking me in and it'll be the first time I'll be doing life drawing since...oh, August, D:
So if anyone's going to be there as well, come say hi and give me crits and fishfood!! :D

[RyerOrdStar]

Sketchbooks are not allowed, they are required and counts as (1) piece.

[REDiceT]

@ Ryer: Is this true??? Sketchbooks are REQUIRED? (For... what? D: ) I didn't see anything about that in the sample portfolio, though I could be wrong...? If that's the case... yikes. That's one more thing to put on my to-do list....

Besides that, thanks for the ideas guys! I just have a few more questions... (Sorry, I'm just full of them!)

Are contour drawings and gesture drawings considered "separate"?

Also, does anyone know if it's okay to include paper that's larger than standard in our portfolio? (For life drawing sketches for example)

... On that note, anyone know how they put their portfolio together? (Did you guys buy a binder or something?)

[My57]

I know that the illustration sample portfolio wants to have a page of your sketchbook. Something about wanting to see your thought process and such.

Oh and I can help you with the portfolio building. I had a friend who went to waterloo for their architecture and he had to build one.

So go to your art store and buy a portfolio binder. Not to hard to find, 8.5 by 11 is what they want I believe if you look at the sample (for illustration) .

The drawing test counts for 40% of the assessment score. All work must be ORIGINAL (work from observation, NOT from photographs). Paper should be white, 8.5 x 11 inches, and all drawings should be black and white. Submit only photocopies of the drawings, as they will be retained for our review process

So to keep your portfolio consistent keep all your works the same size as your drawing test things. Do not do black and white for your Original work. Black and white only for the drawing test thingy that they want.

Try going to a print store or something and see if you can get your artwork scanned in and resized to fit (without stretching) and put the prints on the best damn glossy paper you can find/afford. So just go to a print store or w.e. and don't cheap out on quality to much.

Dunno, but thats about it. I got my portfolio binder at Curry's for 10 dolla's so you can start there I suppose. If you can find a better price thats the same size then go ahead.

[RyerOrdStar]

From the requirements PDF:

Portfolio of Original Work
The Portfolio counts for 60% of the assessment score. Choose up to 20 pieces of your work. Original artwork rather than photocopies is desirable. (Except applicants living more than 80 kilometres from Sheridan. See below.) Please note that we cannot evaluate slides, CD's, T-shirts or 3D sculptures (multiple photographs of 3D work are acceptable and counted as one piece). Science fiction, fantasy, cartoons, comics, anime or images of the horrific in any form are not helpful in determining your skills for the program and therefore will not be evaluated. The portfolio will be scored as follows (10% for each topic).
1) Drawing skills (direct observation, representation, personal expression)
2) Process work for a project included in the portfolio (to show how you develop your ideas)
3) Media exploration (investigation and expressive handling of media)
4) Breadth of content (range of subject matter and visual approach)
5) Sketchbook (evidence of visual curiosity, research and reference)

[REDiceT]

Ohh illustration huh? Okay, whew, then I don't think animation requires it... (but correct me if I am wrong, haha.)

Thanks for answering my questions My! Ten bucks doesn't sound too bad for a portfolio binder. :>

@ Ryer: Is this for illustration majors? :O

EDIT: Sorry, sorry! One more question!

The animation portfolio requires three life drawings in "motion." The examples it lists are "walking, running, pitching or batting a baseball"... how do I depict this? Do they want those rough gesture drawings for this, or do they actually want us to draw the "motion" of the actions?? Like this? http://ushio18.blogspot.com/2009_09_01_archive.html (near the bottom of the first post)

And does anyone know if requesting the nude model to make such actions is okay/considered rude? (There are other people in the class that I am attending as well... I'm not sure if they would find me selfish to request such a thing, or if this was normal?)

Sorry, I only went once to the figure drawing classes, so I don't know the norms. D: (I am going back there next week!)

[My57]

I think they just want the figure to be holding a pose doing something that conveys the look of motion, ya know?

I think it would be find to ask for the model to do a motion is fine. I'm sure no one will think your selfish and they might wanna challenge themselves by drawing something more difficult.

I think sheridan would be fine with it being nude. I would probably give them nude life drawings but I don't have a class anymore and my nude drawings are to old now and I can do better.

[REDiceT]

@ My: Hey thanks for answering again! I think I got an idea of how to do them now haha!

Great news! I finally got the letter from Sheridan!

Bad news: I don't have the ID or PW to log into the website to get the required documents!

Strange how they did not include the ID or PW in the letter... let alone misspelling their own website URL. ("access.sheridaninstutitue.ca"?)

I've checked all over the letter, the e-mail I've registered in, ontariocolleges.ca... heck, I tried to log in with my student ID and the PW I used with ontariocolleges.ca...

It says exactly: "Log-in using the account information sent to you in earlier correspondence."

What's this supposed to mean? Where did they send my ID and PW? D:

This is such a headache... :(

[Explicitly]

Pardon me if this has been asked before, but I will be handing in my -animation- portfolio (not mailing it) and I'm wondering if they prefer photocopied work so if all fits in say a small portfolio case just large enough to fit sheets of 8.5x11 inch paper. Illustration portfolios want photocopies, or so I've heard, but in regards to animation I'm not sure.

My biggest piece is 18" x 24". I have a few pieces around that size, such as my room drawings and life drawings. Would they prefer it to be photocopied? Or could I just as well get a large portfolio case? From what I can see, the requirements give no indication as to what they would prefer. I imagine a small case is easier for them to handle and evaluate, I'm just not sure if they'd rather that over a large portfolio case with the original work.

[My57]

Hmmm wish I can help you but I just signed up for my course a week ago or so and I still need my English U credit (getting it next semester). So they won't be sending me a letter yet.

as for the code... Did you check on the envelope its self? It may be there.

https://access.sheridaninstitute.ca/http://portal-am.sheridaninstitute.ca/amserver/UI/Login?gw=access.sheridaninstitute.ca&org=o%3Dsheridanc.on.ca&goto=http%3A%2F%2Fportal-p.sheridaninstitute.ca%3A80%2Fportal%2Fdt

I copied and pasted that website you typed out and google gave me that. ^


- AHHHH my browser screwed up! Sorry. I triple posted by accident T_T



Send in photo copied work. You will never get your original stuff back, and if you do your lucky.

[My57]

Hmmm wish I can help you but I just signed up for my course a week ago or so and I still need my English U credit (getting it next semester). So they won't be sending me a letter yet.

as for the code... Did you check on the envelope its self? It may be there.

https://access.sheridaninstitute.ca/http://portal-am.sheridaninstitute.ca/amserver/UI/Login?gw=access.sheridaninstitute.ca&org=o%3Dsheridanc.on.ca&goto=http%3A%2F%2Fportal-p.sheridaninstitute.ca%3A80%2Fportal%2Fdt

I copied and pasted that website you typed out and google gave me that. ^

[My57]

Hmmm wish I can help you but I just signed up for my course a week ago or so and I still need my English U credit (getting it next semester). So they won't be sending me a letter yet.

as for the code... Did you check on the envelope its self? It may be there.

https://access.sheridaninstitute.ca/http://portal-am.sheridaninstitute.ca/amserver/UI/Login?gw=access.sheridaninstitute.ca&org=o%3Dsheridanc.on.ca&goto=http%3A%2F%2Fportal-p.sheridaninstitute.ca%3A80%2Fportal%2Fdt

I copied and pasted that website you typed out and google gave me that. ^

[REDiceT]

@ Explicitly: I think they prefer the original if you are handing it in rather than mailing. :0 At least that's what I've been told. D:

@ My: Ohh okay. :( Yeahs I've checked the envelope too, but no sign of ID or PW. (It'd be pretty weird to stick on that kind of private info on the envelope though.) Looked inside and out!

And yeahs, I got the address correct, it's just that they made a really strange typo lol. Hmm, makes one question what the heck's going on over there. xD

[Ryn]

So to keep your portfolio consistent keep all your works the same size as your drawing test things. Do not do black and white for your Original work. Black and white only for the drawing test thingy that they want.


You don't have to make all your portfolio pieces 8.5 x 11 just because the drawing tests are. Just don't bring in 10 x 10' canvases or anything ridiculous like that. Take a photo of anything over 11x17.
You can certainly make graphite/ink/other black and white pieces part of your actual portfolio pieces. I did several graphite pieces for my portfolio.

[REDiceT]

I disregard my previous post! My ID and PW came in a SECOND letter they've sent! I got the evaluation sheet, Alex and Adam character sheet, and the story board panels as well!

Though now I have a new question: when is the deadline to accepting the admission offers? Not that I have gotten any yet, but in case I don't get into Sheridan (and I pray to God that I do get in) my back up is U of T. :(

[Rezuri]

Does anybody know if there are pet-friendly, 1-bedroom apartments near the Trafalgar campus? Actually, anything within a 30-minute commute (by public transportation) would also be good if it meant a cheaper apartment. Something $700 or under? :-)

I have a cat and for that reason I can't apply to live in the dorms (I don't want to leave her with someone else while I'm away to school). Any suggestions would be really appreciated! I live in Nova Scotia and have never been to Ontario, so I don't even know where to begin looking.

[SirGreenSock]

As far as I know, both the apartments above Rabba and the ones on White Oaks allow pets.

[MAxIMUmT]

[QUOTE=REDiceT;2602571]@ My: Hey thanks for answering again! I think I got an idea of how to do them now haha!

Great news! I finally got the letter from Sheridan!

Bad news: I don't have the ID or PW to log into the website to get the required documents!

Strange how they did not include the ID or PW in the letter... let alone misspelling their own website URL. ("access.sheridaninstutitue.ca"?)

I've checked all over the letter, the e-mail I've registered in, ontariocolleges.ca... heck, I tried to log in with my student ID and the PW I used with ontariocolleges.ca...

It says exactly: "Log-in using the account information sent to you in earlier correspondence."

What's this supposed to mean? Where did they send my ID and PW? D:

This is such a headache... :( Hey there this is what I figered out you should have gotten 2 letters from sheridan one of your letter has a box at the bottem that gives you a defult password and a user name wich is probaly your last name. thats all you need to log in with... i managed to log in i changed my passward user name and stuff but now i cant continue on the page theres no more links get back to me if you figer out what to do next and thanks for posting that it has a spelling error in the ulr id still be typing it in if i hadent found your thread

later

[hot.fish]

Hi :)
I lurk these forums but didn't sign up 'til now.

anywaaays, I've got a few questions about the portfolio for illustration.

For the Drawing Test, do the figures have to be naked?
I'm kinda screwed for life drawing because the only place that offers it in my town is only for ages 18+ and my high school doesn't have it either. (But if anyone knows any places around the Markham area, that would be extremely helpful)
Also, are we not allowed to use pencil for the entire drawing test or for only #2 ?

[kennygeeze]

Hi :)
I lurk these forums but didn't sign up 'til now.

anywaaays, I've got a few questions about the portfolio for illustration.

For the Drawing Test, do the figures have to be naked?
I'm kinda screwed for life drawing because the only place that offers it in my town is only for ages 18+ and my high school doesn't have it either. (But if anyone knows any places around the Markham area, that would be extremely helpful)
Also, are we not allowed to use pencil for the entire drawing test or for only #2 ?

If I remember the assignment you're talking about then I'm pretty sure the figures have to be in a 'public setting'... in which case they probably won't be naked... you'd have to reeealllly hunt around for that ;) Not a lot of nudity in a mall food court.

They actually 'card' people at the life-drawing class? Well, maybe do your best to sneak in. You may as well.
I got into lots of 19+ stuff when I was 18 because people don't bother doing math... try it out.

In response to your last question generally if the requirements don't mention a specific material then either use your best guess or use what you want.... use what would get you the best result.
The rest of the program generally works that way too....

[waidot]

Hi :)
I lurk these forums but didn't sign up 'til now.

anywaaays, I've got a few questions about the portfolio for illustration.

For the Drawing Test, do the figures have to be naked?
I'm kinda screwed for life drawing because the only place that offers it in my town is only for ages 18+ and my high school doesn't have it either. (But if anyone knows any places around the Markham area, that would be extremely helpful)
Also, are we not allowed to use pencil for the entire drawing test or for only #2 ?

Hi there, I live in Markham too, and the only place I've heard of that has nude figures is at Varley Art Gallery (that's what my high school art teacher told me), but I've never gone to that..

I've been to 2 life drawing sessions so far at OCAD on saturdays, you pay 10 bucks for a few hours of drawing a nude model, their website has more info. You just have to get downtown by 10-ish.

[Alex Chow]

Hi there, I live in Markham too, and the only place I've heard of that has nude figures is at Varley Art Gallery (that's what my high school art teacher told me), but I've never gone to that..


You can get lessons there but I'm not so sure there are open life drawing sessions. That said, when I was there 2 years ago, Neville Clarke was teaching and he is an incredible figure watercolourist. I highly recommend his classes if he's still there, especially if you're into illustration and long poses.

[Ryn]

I have a cat and for that reason I can't apply to live in the dorms (I don't want to leave her with someone else while I'm away to school). Any suggestions would be really appreciated! I live in Nova Scotia and have never been to Ontario, so I don't even know where to begin looking.

The apartments on 297 Queens Ave allow pets as well. Goodluck finding a 1 bedroom though, you'll get much cheaper and have much more choice if you settle for having roommates. With roommates, staying in one of the aforementioned apartment complexes you can easily get away with paying $400 monthly rent, all included.
Try places4students.com since you live far away. Hello, btw, fellow Nova Scotia-er! I came to Sheridan from Halifax, woop woop. :D

[REDiceT]

Hey there this is what I figered out you should have gotten 2 letters from sheridan one of your letter has a box at the bottem that gives you a defult password and a user name wich is probaly your last name. thats all you need to log in with... i managed to log in i changed my passward user name and stuff but now i cant continue on the page theres no more links get back to me if you figer out what to do next and thanks for posting that it has a spelling error in the ulr id still be typing it in if i hadent found your thread

later

Hi there! Glad you could find the website and log in!

Yes! I have gotten my ID and PW now! Thank-you! :)

I think after you log in, you should book your portfolio evaluation if you haven't already. (But if you are mailing your portfolio, don't worry about this. Just remember they are due February 26th.)

To book a session, just log in to the sheridan website, and click "myStudent Centre" and scroll down to the "Admission" heading and select the "Event Registration" link.

From there, I think you can figure it out yourself. (Since I already booked my appointment, I can't see the page where you select your booking anymore.)

Otherwise, I guess we wait until after they evaluate our portfolios.

I'm getting butterflies in my stomach already. :(

[SenEnd]

Hey guys I'm going to be in Toronto this Friday for next 4 days. I was wondering if I could get some information on the nightly life drawing so I could sneak in and pirate a bunch of sessions when I can :D

[hot.fish]

Actually the assignment didn't specify whether it was a public setting or not. It's just "one figure seated, one figure standing, one figure involved in an everyday activity." But yeah, I'm just going to assume it doesn't matter whether the figure is clothed since it wasn't specified.

Hi there, I live in Markham too, and the only place I've heard of that has nude figures is at Varley Art Gallery (that's what my high school art teacher told me), but I've never gone to that..



Yeahh, as I said you have to be 18+ to take the life drawing classes at the Varley Art Gallery. I even signed up for portfolio classes here but they got canceled due to a lack of students.. :x

Thanks for the info about OCAD's drawing lessons btw! I guess I have no other choice than to take it there

[Miso_soup]

Hi everyone, I have some questions...

Does anyone know if the judges grading our animation portfolios are students or teachers? 'Cause I heard a rumor that they might in fact be 4th year students.

And also, do you recommend first year students to purchase a laptop?
Or is it okay just to have a PC at home?

[Ryn]

Hi everyone, I have some questions...
Does anyone know if the judges grading our animation portfolios are students or teachers? 'Cause I heard a rumor that they might in fact be 4th year students.


This is certainly a false rumor! Only teachers do evaluating. A few students a year usually help out, but their help consists of moving portfolios around, helping with paperwork, receiving portfolios from people as they're passed in, etc. Mostly grunt work so the teachers can be more efficient.


And also, do you recommend first year students to purchase a laptop?
Or is it okay just to have a PC at home?

I didn't have a computer at all for my first two years. If you have the spare cash they are always great, but you can certainly do without them and just use computers at school. From what I've gathered, computers are more frequently used for work in illustration than animation.

Hope that helps.

[Visona]

Sorry if this has been asked before but what is the maximum size allowed? I'm applying to animation in sept 2010 and not all of my works are the same size. Smallest size is 8.5 x11 and largest is 14"x17" i don't know how i'm supposed to put it all in one binder. Wait does it even have to be all in one binder? Also for you portfolio requirements, which would you say is placed a higher value upon? For personal artwork: what they like to see there?

btw is anyone here currently enrolled in sheridan's animation program there? If so how are you finding the workload? How much 3-D and other digital work do you get to do?
Thanks to anyone who can provide answers.

[Miso_soup]

This is certainly a false rumor! Only teachers do evaluating. A few students a year usually help out, but their help consists of moving portfolios around, helping with paperwork, receiving portfolios from people as they're passed in, etc. Mostly grunt work so the teachers can be more efficient.



I didn't have a computer at all for my first two years. If you have the spare cash they are always great, but you can certainly do without them and just use computers at school. From what I've gathered, computers are more frequently used for work in illustration than animation.

Hope that helps.


Thanks for clearing that up! But would using the faculty's computers for work mean spending longer hours at school? Or do we have the option of using class time to work on the computers?

[Storm Serenade]

Hey, guys, does anybody have illustration portfolio package? I've applied, already, but haven't yet received it, and want to get started on it asap. Thanks in advance!

[yuvi]

sorry if this has been asked before. Most of my personal art pieces for illustration portfolio are 14x17 inch. Should i re-size them smaller and get them printed out?
My portfolio case is actually huge so it will be able to fit them all.

honestly, i don't want to spend the extra $$ for printing.

--oh yes, about the portfolio presentation, I don't have a portfolio BINDER, but i do have a Portfolio CASE. Which makes it easier to hold large sized art pieces. Do they prefer binders?

[Ryn]

Thanks for clearing that up! But would using the faculty's computers for work mean spending longer hours at school? Or do we have the option of using class time to work on the computers?

Basically, yeah, you'll be spending some extra time after your classes to do computer work in that case. But for some classes you work in a lab so you can do your computer work then.
It can be a bit of a bitch sometimes, but I did it for 2 years and it wasn't so bad.

sorry if this has been asked before. Most of my personal art pieces for illustration portfolio are 14x17 inch. Should i re-size them smaller and get them printed out?
My portfolio case is actually huge so it will be able to fit them all.

honestly, i don't want to spend the extra $$ for printing.

--oh yes, about the portfolio presentation, I don't have a portfolio BINDER, but i do have a Portfolio CASE. Which makes it easier to hold large sized art pieces. Do they prefer binders?

They shouldn't mind a portfolio folder but they'll prefer it if it isn't ridiculously huge.

[hot.fish]

Oh, one more question (sorry ! D: )
If we're applying to two programs (illust & animation in my case), do we hand in two different portfolios with all completely different works? Or are we allowed to use the same stuff for both portfolios?
.. or do we just hand in one portfolio?

[Ryn]

You'll have to do two different portfolios, because the animation portfolio guidelines are very strict.

However, the illustration portfolio requirements are more of a suggestion. (Though drawing test pieces are to be followed exactly as given). If you have a portfolio you made for a different school, it can be suitable for an Sheridan illustration application. At least this was the case when I applied to illustration 3 years ago. I had made a portfolio based on Ringling's portfolio requirements and Sheridan accepted it no problem. I know this isn't quite what you're asking about but I figured I'd throw it out there if anyone else is in this situation.

[Rezuri]

Can someone tell me how to get from Toronto to Sheridan via Go Train/Bus?

I booked a tour of Sheridan for the 24th, but I have no idea of what rout to pick on the GO site, or how early I have to leave from Union Station in order to get to Oakville (my tour starts at 12).

[Ryn]

Take the Lakeshore West from Union. Get the schedule times off the GO Transit website.

[RyerOrdStar]

The trip is 40 minutes long (give or take) and the trains leave Union at XX:43, so you should be there at XX:30 and you'll be fine. So for 12 you should take the 10:43 train. Then keep your GO train ticket and take the 1 bus in Oakville for $0.65. Or walk up Trafalgar (sometimes the buses aren't reliable).

[amadarien]

Hello everyone,

Very helpful thread. I was hoping to get some advice/info from some of you people who have attended or currently attend Sheridan.

I've been in a sort of lull the last few years. Working to, well, live mostly. I went to NBCC Miramichi right out of HS back in 02 and finished fundamentals and year 1 of animation. Animation wound up not being my thing and I just worked a regular job and continued to work on my own stuff. The last few year and a bit I've really cracked down and improved a lot. However, I find myself with no networks, a wobbly portfolio and basically no contacts at all.

I have been considering trying to go back to school next fall semester but definately not for animation. Sheridan has always appealed to me but since I live in NB I have been extremely hesitant to go due to money (RL debt, student loans and bills add up) but I am thinking of getting another Student loan and taking the plunge. Which brings me to the advice I seek... I am considering taking sheridans fundamental course. I WANT in the Illustration course but my traditional painting is my WEAKEST point. MY digital painting is alright and improving but put me in front of a canvas and I am lost.

Any suggestions from people who may have been there? I am 25 and I feel so old to be considering this but I can't picture myself doing anything BUT art. IF anyone wants an indication of my skill level I have a few pieces on rawb.cgsociety.org.

Thanks,

[hot.fish]

You'll have to do two different portfolios, because the animation portfolio guidelines are very strict.

However, the illustration portfolio requirements are more of a suggestion. (Though drawing test pieces are to be followed exactly as given). If you have a portfolio you made for a different school, it can be suitable for an Sheridan illustration application. At least this was the case when I applied to illustration 3 years ago. I had made a portfolio based on Ringling's portfolio requirements and Sheridan accepted it no problem. I know this isn't quite what you're asking about but I figured I'd throw it out there if anyone else is in this situation.

Thanks for the info ! Would be I allowed to use any of the same pieces in my animation portfolio for my illustration portfolio though?

[kennygeeze]

Hello everyone,

Very helpful thread. I was hoping to get some advice/info from some of you people who have attended or currently attend Sheridan.

I've been in a sort of lull the last few years. Working to, well, live mostly. I went to NBCC Miramichi right out of HS back in 02 and finished fundamentals and year 1 of animation. Animation wound up not being my thing and I just worked a regular job and continued to work on my own stuff. The last few year and a bit I've really cracked down and improved a lot. However, I find myself with no networks, a wobbly portfolio and basically no contacts at all.

I have been considering trying to go back to school next fall semester but definately not for animation. Sheridan has always appealed to me but since I live in NB I have been extremely hesitant to go due to money (RL debt, student loans and bills add up) but I am thinking of getting another Student loan and taking the plunge. Which brings me to the advice I seek... I am considering taking sheridans fundamental course. I WANT in the Illustration course but my traditional painting is my WEAKEST point. MY digital painting is alright and improving but put me in front of a canvas and I am lost.

Any suggestions from people who may have been there? I am 25 and I feel so old to be considering this but I can't picture myself doing anything BUT art. IF anyone wants an indication of my skill level I have a few pieces on rawb.cgsociety.org.

Thanks,

I knew very little about painting before I got into illustration. My strength was drawing and that was what my portfolio consisted of. That was back in 2004.
First year is great for picking up a lot of traditional skills like painting and my second year painting class really opened my eyes on that whole subject. I was able to get ten hours with a really great painting tutor as well for less than $30.
25 isn't that old. It's probably a good age to do school since you might be less likely to be distracted by all the social drama college has to offer.

[kennygeeze]

Thanks for the info ! Would be I allowed to use any of the same pieces in my animation portfolio for my illustration portfolio though?

It's not the same as trying to pass off the same assignment for two different classes. It's not wrong. You could use the same portfolio to apply to 50 other art schools and all the other art programs at sheridan too if you wanted.
A portfolio is just like an mp3 playlist of your work... the same drawing might appear in all of your portfolios if that drawing was appropriate for all portfolios.

[RickyS]

I have two questions about the mail-in portfolio (for animation):

1. Does the back of the artwork have to be visible or can I double them up back-to-back? It says on the requirements to print your name and Sheridan ID# on the back of every piece of artwork submitted, but is it important for the reviewers to see this or is it just in case a piece of art gets lost? I got my portfolio binder from the Sheridan store, so it should be fine, but clarification would be good.

2. My second question is about the Personal Work. Everyone says a sketchbook is important to include, but I can't include my real sketchbook with the mail-in portfolio because they want photocopies only and will not return it (plus they want 8.5x11 and my sketchbook is larger). So instead of including my actual sketchbook, should I just send in one example page, or should I send in a few sample pages to represent my sketchbook?

[Ryn]

2. My second question is about the Personal Work. Everyone says a sketchbook is important to include, but I can't include my real sketchbook with the mail-in portfolio because they want photocopies only and will not return it (plus they want 8.5x11 and my sketchbook is larger). So instead of including my actual sketchbook, should I just send in one example page, or should I send in a few sample pages to represent my sketchbook?

They want to see an entire sketchbook, so photocopy/scan a good amount. I was a mail in so I had to do this, I photocopied 20 pages or so and just stapled it together.

[amadarien]

I knew very little about painting before I got into illustration. My strength was drawing and that was what my portfolio consisted of. That was back in 2004.
First year is great for picking up a lot of traditional skills like painting and my second year painting class really opened my eyes on that whole subject. I was able to get ten hours with a really great painting tutor as well for less than $30.
25 isn't that old. It's probably a good age to do school since you might be less likely to be distracted by all the social drama college has to offer.

Thanks a lot, Kenny. I apprecaite your responding to me. That bolsters my confidence a bit in applying to Illustration directly. Now I have to make sure it's open and that I can get in. Lol.

[xshay12000x]

is a sketchbook part of the requirement for animation? i thought we can put whatever we want in those 5 personal works? D=

[RickyS]

They want to see an entire sketchbook, so photocopy/scan a good amount. I was a mail in so I had to do this, I photocopied 20 pages or so and just stapled it together.
Thanks for the answer! I was originally going to send in 1 page, but I guess I'll have to add some more.

is a sketchbook part of the requirement for animation? i thought we can put whatever we want in those 5 personal works? D=
Yeah, I also thought we could put in whatever we wanted, but everyone including an instructor I talked to during the open house back in (Nov?) said the sketchbook is important. I guess it would be a good idea to include it just in case (but I'm not 100% sure because this is my first time applying).


I find it strange how for the Personal Work section you only get scored in Creativity and Overall Impact/Presentation. Compared to the other categories like storyboarding (which you get scored in everything!), it almost seems as if the personal artwork doesn't count for very much. However it says you get scored on the average of input from faculty, so I'm kind of scared that the personal work will actually make or break your portfolio...

[RyerOrdStar]

For animation they don't really care about personal work, for illustration too. Especially for animation, storyboarding and character and anatomy are much more important to them. (Since you'll be doing that pretty much the entire 4 years)

They want to see you know the fundamentals. You will have time in the 4 years to create personal work, and personal work often also hides people's inability to grasp the fundamentals. That's why a drawing of a shoe helps them out a lot more than a highly rendered surrealistic painting.

[amadarien]

Hey guys,

Another question. I was wondering if we can do digital paintings for the portfolio submission. I know you send photocopies and whatnot for traditional mediums but will they accept prints as well?

Thanks!

[yuvi]

hi again. Does anyone have a good print store recommendation for printing pencil sketches [for the test]? [staples? Grand&toy?]
A place that is able to scan and print close to original quality because my scanner can't seem to pick up the most of my pencil lines. It is kind of ruining the looseness of the sketch overall.

Thank you in advance.

[laurabaura]

I'm applying to the Animation program at Sheridan for the '10 year. Just working on my portfolio submission atm.

What I'm most concerned with is that everyone says that they can tell if you've drawn from a photograph. All my work is from life, but I hate showing structure lines in completed work.

I've looked at some portfolios that are online and many of them have scratchy outlines and structure lines still showing. For myself I feel that it looks sloppy, and aren't they grading on line quality?

My concern boils down to this. If I erase my structure lines will they think I drew it from a photograph? or if I *don't* clean up the image, will they dock me points on line quality? :P

[RickyS]

I'm applying to the Animation program at Sheridan for the '10 year. Just working on my portfolio submission atm.

What I'm most concerned with is that everyone says that they can tell if you've drawn from a photograph. All my work is from life, but I hate showing structure lines in completed work.

I've looked at some portfolios that are online and many of them have scratchy outlines and structure lines still showing. For myself I feel that it looks sloppy, and aren't they grading on line quality?

My concern boils down to this. If I erase my structure lines will they think I drew it from a photograph? or if I *don't* clean up the image, will they dock me points on line quality? :P

It's my first time applying, but I talked to an instructor about line quality and she said they WANT to see STRUCTURE and they don't really like seeing clean-up drawings. Plus line quality counts for just 1 score, but structure can show persepctive, form and volume a lot better which makes the drawings look more 3D (which is what they like). Sometimes clean lines can remove this feeling and makes things look flat.

Also this is what it says on the requirements sheet for the life drawing section:
"We are more interested in you demonstrating a knowledge of structure than the ability to use shading on your drawings."
They are stressing structure here, so it's probably the most important thing to make sure you have in your drawings.

But just because you use structure lines doesn't mean you can't have clean lines. I've actually seen some professional structural drawings with clean lines and others messy, so I guess it depends on how you work. For example, if you use your entire arm while drawing instead of just your fingers, you will get cleaner lines (but it takes A LONG time to get used to).

If you want to see awesome structure drawings, check out Glen Vilppu! Most of his drawings are structural or gestural, but his line quality is still freakin' amazing, so you should look him up. He also has a few books about drawing for animation which I recommend to everyone interested.

So I would personally not worry about line quality as long as it doesn't take away from the overall image (like 50 lines where there should just be 1) and as long as you are drawing from life you shouldn't have to worry about them thinking you drew from a photograph.

With that said I'm also not sure how they can tell if you are drawing from photographs because if you're good enough and know structure well, I don't see how you couldn't make photo referenced drawings look like real life drawings. Plus if someone sucked enough and didn't know what they were doing, their life drawings could look like they were photo referenced (kind of like my first life drawings, haha). And then there are those insane people who can make their drawings from imagination look like life drawings, but they must have some secret skills...

[Ryn]

I'm applying to the Animation program at Sheridan for the '10 year. Just working on my portfolio submission atm.

What I'm most concerned with is that everyone says that they can tell if you've drawn from a photograph. All my work is from life, but I hate showing structure lines in completed work.

I've looked at some portfolios that are online and many of them have scratchy outlines and structure lines still showing. For myself I feel that it looks sloppy, and aren't they grading on line quality?

My concern boils down to this. If I erase my structure lines will they think I drew it from a photograph? or if I *don't* clean up the image, will they dock me points on line quality? :P

Most of the giveaway for something heavily photo referenced is the depth, not the line quality. A picture copied from a 2d picture will be very flat.
Don't change they way you draw to accommodate the way you think they might perceive something. That would be akin to writing an essay with simple words because you're concerned your teacher will suspect plagiarism. If you're worried about the 'they can tell if you copied photos' thing, simple - don't copy photos. That's as far as you need to go in addressing that subject.

[laurabaura]

Thanks Ricky and Ryn!

I'm just a major planner and an over thinker! :) I guess I'll just stay true to me. I've seen some portfolios online where there's alot of structure in their still lifes. So I suppose I'll pick and choose for which pieces I'll leave structure lines. :)

[RickyS]

You're welcome laurabaura.


I have one more question, this time regarding labels. I'm not sure if it matters, but what sort of things should you include as part of the labels? I'm planning on printing out my labels (on the computer) and just putting something simple like:
1. Observational Life Drawing #1
1. Observational Life Drawing #2
1. Observational Life Drawing #3
2. Animal Life Drawing #1
etc
etc

For the observational life drawings should I write down which ones are in motion and which are still (it should be obvious, but just in case?)

How did other people do their labels?

[laurabaura]

I personally am just writing the same as you, "observational drawing #1" "room perspective" ect...
Don't forget to include your application # on the back of every image.

[RickyS]

Okay good enough. :)

Yeah I wrote my name and ID on the back of every page, but the pages are facing back-to-back so they won't be able to see it. I guess it's just in case something falls out and gets separated from the binder...

Yay! I get to mail my portfolio tomorrow, so I'm almost finished 100% (took forever!) Now I can finally go to bed before midnight. Good luck to everyone who's still working.

[laurabaura]

Wow, done so early! I'm glad I'm taking mine in person so I have the extra month-ish. I'm working full time, plus taking some ASL classes, and trying to do this portfolio. Finding time to sleep has been interesting :S good work getting it finished!

[friedikins]

Hi! I've been lurking here for some time, and I want to ask something...I'm sorry if this has been asked before. Do we need to put originals for Illustration portfolio? So, if I make it on a big paper, say, newsprint pad, I need to buy a bigger portfolio case then?

[Visona]

for animation, do the animal drawings have to be of LIVING animals, i was thinking of going to the museum and draw stuffed ones. they still real and the proportions are correct, just that they are dead

[RickyS]

for animation, do the animal drawings have to be of LIVING animals, i was thinking of going to the museum and draw stuffed ones. they still real and the proportions are correct, just that they are dead

I'm not 100% sure if the animals have to be living, but there is this animation portfolio workshop which helps students build portfolios for Sheridan and it looks like they do some of their animal life drawings from museums (you can see the blog post here (http://apwcharacterdesign.blogspot.com/2009/01/apw-classes-at-new-rom.html)). I don't know much about the workshop, but the work the students produce looks awesome, so it's a good guide to follow. I personally don't see the problem with drawing fake animals from life since it's still from life, but it's still probably better to wait for someone else who knows the answer.

One things for sure stuffed animals are a lot easier to draw because at least they can stay still for a few seconds...

[Gerard Sternik]

Hi.

As long as we've been running the Animation Portfolio Workshop, we've had our students produce both types of drawings for the animal drawing requirement of the Sheridan portfolio...and they (our students) have done well using both live animals and stuffed ones, usually from the collection of the ROM.

I'm glad you liked the drawings from our blog....
We'll be posting new student work on the blogs over the next number of weeks, as portfolio's are completed and submitted.

Stay tuned!

Gerard Sternik

Director

Animation Portfolio Workshop

http://www.portfolioworkshop.com/
http://apwcharacterdesign.blogspot.com/
http://apwlifedrawing.blogspot.com/
http://www.youtube.com/user/APWnetwork

[Cherry_Cheesecake100]

Whoo, got my portfolios sent off yesterday! Now I'm sick with nervousness, but I won't know the results for a month and a half! Uguu~ I'm going to have bad dreams for awhile.
Good luck to everyone else who's applying!

[Ryn]

I'm going to have bad dreams for awhile.

lol! When I sent out my application I had dreams about the apocalypse every single night. The day I got my acceptance letter, they stopped. It's pretty funny in hindsight that I was that worried!

Best of luck to you, try and enjoy yourself until you hear the verdict!!

[Cherry_Cheesecake100]

Glad I'm not the only one! Last night I dreamt I drove over a kid and squished him in half. I spent most of the night bawling my eyes out and apologizing to the dream kid. I hope I learn to relax here in a few days.

[Max Power]

Hi Everybody!

New guy here, and I suppose some background info would help you better understand my questions.

Graduated high school in 2007, spent 3 years wondering the next steps. Fast forward to late October 2009, got into an accident. Been stuck in the the house since. During that time I considered my options for the future, and right now I'm pretty sure I want to go back to school. I'm 21 now, graduated with ENG4C (65%) and 2 M courses (both Art). I'm considering either Sheridan Illustration, or Humber Industrial, leaning heavily to the former, so here are my question.

Question the First: Is it possible for me to even consider applying this year in my situation?

2: Do I need to bone up on credits? The prerequisites ask for ENG4U and 4 U or M courses. I have College level and 2 M courses.

3: Could I possibly be considered a Mature Student? or am I relegated to high school graduate since I did graduate?

4: This is just me being clueless about college/uni. Application for OSAP is after college app right?

I think that's all I can think of right now. I believe portfolio submission due date is soon? Because I don't even have anything prepared for that. Anyway thanks for reading, I'm off to bed. Hope you guys can guide a fellow hopeful. I'll post a sketchbook soon.

[Visona]

does sheridan send ur acknowlegement letter via traditional mail or email? I applied a few days before the deadline (feb1st) and i didn't get anything from them, which worries me because i already got accepted to art fundementals, yet animation is taking a long time to get to me. What date do the portfolios evaluations usually start? Cause I'm planning to go there in person

[Demonique768]

You usually find out n April 1st whether you got in or not, That is if you check online, the letter gets to you mid April or sometime after. But if you want to know if they received your portfolio you might want to call them just incase. :)

[SekuDanba]

I applied for their Art Fundametals course, but I am thinking about taking their BFA - Illustration Program and wanted to know any good reviews about it...I might need some time to decide.

As for the Art Fundamentals Course, it looks fun, and I can take what I learn from that and apply it to another program at another college/university.

Any replies are appreciated.

[Visona]

You usually find out n April 1st whether you got in or not, That is if you check online, the letter gets to you mid April or sometime after. But if you want to know if they received your portfolio you might want to call them just incase. :)

oh no i didn't send my portfolio yet im still making it. All i did so far was apply, what i want to know is when do they send out the info packages (storyboard characters) as well as your portfolio evaluation deadline.

[waidot]

Thanks for the info about OCAD's drawing lessons btw! I guess I have no other choice than to take it there

No problem! Did you get the chance to go to any of their sessions yet? Everytime I go, everyone's very serious and hardworking, which helps me focus, haha. I went yesterday!

[xshay12000x]

hi everyone i have some questions regarding mailing sheridan portfolio
i counted and there should be about 20 pages of 8.5"x11" paper
should i put them all in a presentation book?
and also can i print the photos on glossy photo paper? or just plain? (since i am not sending my originals)
thanks in advance!

[Demonique768]

Do normal paper. Glossy distracts I think, It wont make your drawing look any better.

[REDiceT]

Hi guys, long time no see~

Evaluations start this Monday! Anyone going on that date? (Because I am... :< )

I still have a few concerns before submitting my portfolio!

Should just scale my life drawings (about 18 x 24 inches) down to standard paper size via photocopying... or taking a photo of it and printing it out?

And I decided to submit my sketchbook for my personal five... but I don't know how I should go about doing that. :/ Do they want like a page sample of my sketchbook or like the whole thing?

I know my questions are annoying but you guys have been a lot of help! And I think these are gonna be the final of my questions heh heh.

[liquidtransience]

Hope everyone gets into their programs of choice! I remember the stress all too well..