Portfolio guidance
When Universities (for example, the University of Reading) say that they'd be interested in seeing examples of creative writing in portfolios, what exactly do they mean?
Because for my Fine Art A-level, I've had to complete a related study on a topic related to art, and I think it could be interesting to show my passions (as it's about architecture), however, it's quite long. Please, can someone give me some clarity on what they mean by this?
Because for my Fine Art A-level, I've had to complete a related study on a topic related to art, and I think it could be interesting to show my passions (as it's about architecture), however, it's quite long. Please, can someone give me some clarity on what they mean by this?
Reply 1
izzymili
OP
2
Original post
by izzymiliWhen Universities (for example, the University of Reading) say that they'd be interested in seeing examples of creative writing in portfolios, what exactly do they mean?
Because for my Fine Art A-level, I've had to complete a related study on a topic related to art, and I think it could be interesting to show my passions (as it's about architecture), however, it's quite long. Please, can someone give me some clarity on what they mean by this?
Because for my Fine Art A-level, I've had to complete a related study on a topic related to art, and I think it could be interesting to show my passions (as it's about architecture), however, it's quite long. Please, can someone give me some clarity on what they mean by this?
For clarification, this is for Architecture
Reply 2
When universities (including Reading) mention creative writing in a portfolio, they’re usually looking for original, self-directed written work that shows how you think creatively and communicate ideas not necessarily something super polished or published.
This could include:
What matters most is that it shows your voice, imagination, and interests, rather than academic essay technique.
In terms of your Fine Art related study:
An architecture-focused written study could be relevant if it has a strong creative or reflective element (for example, exploring why you’re drawn to certain architectural styles, how buildings influence emotion, or how architecture inspires your artwork). However, universities generally don’t expect or want very long pieces. If it’s lengthy, you’d be better off:
At Reading specifically, admissions tutors are usually looking for quality over quantity as a few pages that clearly show creativity, curiosity and personal engagement are far better than a long academic-style document.
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to email the admissions or course team and ask what format and length they prefer. they’re very used to these questions and happy to advise.
"[email protected]" <[email protected]> and or [email protected]
Hope that helps, and feel free to ask if you want advice on what to include or how to trim things down 😊
Ronnie Narang
BSc Business and Management (Digital Business & Data Analytics)
This could include:
•
Short stories, flash fiction or novel extracts
•
Poetry
•
Creative essays or reflective pieces
•
Scriptwriting, spoken word, or experimental writing
In terms of your Fine Art related study:
An architecture-focused written study could be relevant if it has a strong creative or reflective element (for example, exploring why you’re drawn to certain architectural styles, how buildings influence emotion, or how architecture inspires your artwork). However, universities generally don’t expect or want very long pieces. If it’s lengthy, you’d be better off:
•
Selecting a short extract, or
•
Summarising the study and pairing it with a more creative written piece
If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to email the admissions or course team and ask what format and length they prefer. they’re very used to these questions and happy to advise.
"[email protected]" <[email protected]> and or [email protected]
Hope that helps, and feel free to ask if you want advice on what to include or how to trim things down 😊
Ronnie Narang
BSc Business and Management (Digital Business & Data Analytics)
(edited 1 month ago)
Reply 3
Original post
by izzymiliWhen Universities (for example, the University of Reading) say that they'd be interested in seeing examples of creative writing in portfolios, what exactly do they mean?
Because for my Fine Art A-level, I've had to complete a related study on a topic related to art, and I think it could be interesting to show my passions (as it's about architecture), however, it's quite long. Please, can someone give me some clarity on what they mean by this?
Because for my Fine Art A-level, I've had to complete a related study on a topic related to art, and I think it could be interesting to show my passions (as it's about architecture), however, it's quite long. Please, can someone give me some clarity on what they mean by this?
Hi Izzy,
We have lots of advice around creative portfolio's that may be of help to you.
We have Fine Art specific advice, but more generally you can find details of creative courses: https://www.staffs.ac.uk/admissions/portfolio-reviews
Wishing you the best of luck with your application to university. If you have any more questions, or would like more clarity, we're happy to help.
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- Graphic design 2025
- Loughborough Uni Graphics Portfolio
- Architecture Universities/Portfolios
- Advice on portfolio for fashion design at MMU
- Portfolio
- Edinburgh Illustration Portfolio
- Portfolio
- Portfolio and uni choices
- Cardiff University Portfolio for Architecture
- advice for architecture portfolio UCL??
- Portfolio
- Uwl adult nursing msc rpl
- portfolio
- Architecture portfolio
- Undergrad Architecture Portfolio - Glasgow School of Art
- MA Fashion UAL 2026 CSM
- Graphic Design portfolio for Sheffield Hallam?
- Applying for architecture 2026
- Edinburgh 2026
- University of Hertfordshire MA Animation portfolio requirements
Latest
Trending
Last reply 3 months ago
Graduate diploma in Art at RCA or Goldsmiths - is it worth it?Last reply 7 months ago
RCA Offer Holder - Every programme accept more than 100 students?Last reply 7 months ago
Art Foundation Diploma 2025 Personal Statememt help!! (UAL, Kingston, Oxford Brookes)
How The Student Room is moderated
To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.
