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Hello, everyone! My name is Xi Kang, but you can also call me Natalia. I am a graduated student from GZFLS IB Diploma Programme in 2023. As I remember, I was interested in Art since I was a kid, and it’s accompanied me throughout the whole growing-up process. So, it was only natural for me to want to pursue my interest in visual arts not only as a hobby, but to consider it as my future profession, since this field holds a great appeal for me. Engaging with art allows me to connect with my inner self and express myself in an intuitive manner, which is why I am drawn to it.
Usually Art and Design Schools, Universities and Colleges require a practical Art Portfolio as a part of the application process. Could you share if there are any specific requirements for the portfolio in the major you choose?
For digital portfolio most of the schools required 15-20 pages of your best works, which demonstrates your potential, personality, creativity, and level of technical skills. And there is no specific limitation on the theme, topic or medium. So basically I can draw whatever I like. Of course it will be good if your portfolio will be appropriate for the degree you are applying for. For example, for most of the schools I applied, I chose illustration. For Illustration and Animation it’s about telling stories visually. The portfolio can include imaginative pieces that demonstrate your use of color and composition, narrative story-driven illustrations (digital or traditional), book covers, and a concept painting of a personal moment or experience. Most of the schools ask to include figure drawings from a live model and observational drawings.
Installation by Xi Kang
Letter to My Grandfather, 2022
Film, rice paper, string, bamboo
40 x 40 x 210 cm
Segment of college portfolio, as well as part of Natalia’s IBDP art exhibition, 2023
A strong aspect of your works is the detailed exploration of concepts, the deep meaning behind the works, and the high level of technical skills. What inspires you and what do you believe contributed to your ability in these areas?
Indeed I like to dig complex concepts. Usually my inspiration comes from other artists works (in terms of interesting concepts, most of them are contemporary artists), novels and movies etc. In other words, everything I’ve read or experienced can lead to the produce of my own artwork. As for the technical skills, I think it comes from the very fundamental skills (such as the knowledge of human anatomy, light and shade, form and structure, composition…). Although the knowledge seems very basic, it take large amounts of practice to improve.
2Dimentional work by Xi Kang
Grandfather’s Film, 2022
Suminagashi (water marbling), collage
540 x 780 mm
Segment of college portfolio, as well as part of IBDP art exhibition, 2023
Suminagashi (water marbling) process
As you studied IBDP Art course and prepare your university portfolio, what was the biggest challenge you faced?
One of the major difficulties is to keep refining the work. I had to keep working on the same work for many times. Although sometimes I really feel like the refining process is endless, it actually improves the quality of my ideas, skills and techniques and my overall development as an artist.
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2Dimentional work by Xi Kang
The Stranger, 2022
Color pencil, dyed wool, clay on paper
165 x 60 cm
Segment of college portfolio, as well as part of IBDP art exhibition, 2023
Xi Kang
Fortune-Changer Ⅰ （2022）acrylic, quartz sand on mirror
40 x 40 cm
What suggestions can you give for our high school Art students, who want to attain excellent grades in IBDP Arts course and be admitted to their dream university?
1. In terms of college applications, be aware that every art school has different requirements and expectations. Consider and record the exact admissions requirements of your dream school first, then make adjustments to fit other schools.
2. Make timetable and do time management. This helps you to handle both IB course and school applications better. Work on your art project systematically and regularly. I started my planning and portfolio preparation from grade 10.
3. To get good results in IB Visual Arts course, be familiar with the mark scheme and assessment criteria, systematically document the process either in the sketchbook or use electronic means. In addition, it may be necessary to devote extra time outside of regular class hours to complete the work in a good quality.
Fragment Natalia's IBDP exhibition
Original Mrs.Olga
Translated by Mrs. Brownie Wang
Sincerely,
IB Visual Arts Department
