Art making involves more than the ability to render an image. It is a complex intellectual and creative process of designing, conceptualizing, making, and analyzing. In the foundation classes of the 2009 Pre-College Summer Studios students are immersed in this process through work in perspective, point of view, composition, and structure. Students practice these concepts through studio work, lectures, field trips, activities, and group critiques.

Additionally, students choose a specialized studio- Fine Art, Design and Illustration, Graphic Novel or Digital Photography. Concentrating on the field of their choice, students have class time, studio time and “breakout sessions” that provide an intensive focus on each discipline.

Students leave the Pre-College Summer Studios with a portfolio of finished work and digital documentation. The program concludes with a public gallery exhibition of student work and a reception on the First Thursday in August at the PNCA campus. First Thursday is a city-wide celebration of art centered in Portland’s primary arts district, The Pearl, where PNCA is located.

Download 2009 Registration Form
Download 2009 Scholarship Application

Year Round Offerings

The Pre-College academic offerings include a rotating schedule of courses for students ages 14-18. Many of these selections are offered for one college credit and allow high school students become familiar with PNCA’s college instruction and atmosphere. Current classes.