Partners: Genesee, Saginaw, and Oakland Intermediate School Districts
Educators: Matthew Osmon, Visual Arts Instructor, Mott Middle College High School; Erin Mohrman, Visual Arts Instructor, Mott Middle College High School; Philip Ruehle, Visual Arts Instructor, Mott Middle College High School
Location: Flint, MI
Kelly Grant, 12th Grade
Self Portrait, 2014
Graphite
Morgan Hamilton, 11th Grade
Owl Study, 2014
Pen & Ink
Kai Joshua, 10th Grade
Still Life Study, 2014
Graphite and charcoal
The Flint Institute of Arts Pre-College Portfolio Development Program is a three-year scholarship program that nurtures the budding careers of gifted high school visual arts students. Started in January 2009, four groups of students have completed the program with 83% of alumni currently enrolled in college courses. The program enhances student abilities in the visual arts through classes, career counseling, and exposure to a range of studio practices. Students receive advanced instruction in studio coursework and research exercises to encourage personal growth and development. The program not only focuses on artistic abilities and professional vocabulary, but also strives to advance leadership skills, support self-esteem, and develop a social network. By the end of the program, students produce a well-rounded visual arts portfolio, as seen through these works, intended for college applications, scholarships, and internships.