Portfolio Course in Berlin

Check-in | Each block begins with an introduction for new participants. Current thematic, practical, and organizational topics are discussed.

Individual and group meetings | The Portfolio Course includes regular individual and group meetings dedicated to your artistic work, portfolio development, and personal direction.

Discourse | Participants reflect on and discuss their own works, the works of others, and relevant artistic positions.

Workshop with guest lecturer | Workshops introduce approaches in experimental drawing, painting, sculptural processes, creative strategies, performance, material exploration, and other artistic methods. They are suitable for participants at different levels, from beginners to professionals.

Block seminar with a course instructor | Each block includes a multi-day (online) seminar led by a course instructor. The seminar focuses on a specific topic and creates space for exchange with participants. The seminar supports participants in reflecting on their own work in relation to wider artistic discourses.

Visits | Twice per block, the BAI organizes visits to studios, galleries, project spaces, exhibitions, museums, institutions, collections, or foundations. Whenever possible, these visits include conversations with artists, gallerists, project space operators, curators, or collectors.

Lecture with guest lecturer | Once per block, we invite a guest speaker to present a lecture, followed by group crits at the participants’ studio workplaces. The review focuses on their current artistic practice.

Coaching | Sessions provide training, consulting, and support in portfolio preparation, documentation, presentation, visualization, mediation, and self-organization. Participants receive feedback on how to present their work clearly and professionally.

Seminar Area and Reading Lounge | In addition to the personal workplaces, the BAI provides a seminar space for lectures, talks, and discussions, as well as a small library.

Artistic practice | The structure of the Portfolio Course allows time for independent work. This includes studio practice, research, experimentation, material acquisition, idea development, documentation, and revision.

Work conditions | The spatial structure of the BAI allows participants to work in small groups while also providing space for concentration and focused individual practice.

Workplace | Each participant receives a personal workplace in a shared BAI studio, available day and night. The bright studios are between 45 and 55 square meters and approximately 3.5 meters high. They are equipped with working tables and chairs, overhead lighting, and light protection for the windows. Participants also receive a chair and storage rack.

Materials and equipment | The BAI works with an interdisciplinary approach. Participants are free to choose the media and materials they want to work with. We provide some basic materials, but participants should bring the tools and specific materials needed for their own practice. Most participants purchase additional materials in Berlin. According to individual needs, we provide a list of recommended suppliers. Please note that the BAI does not provide technical equipment.

Kitchenette | is available for shared use

Certificate | The BERLIN ART INSTITUTE acknowledges your participation with a certificate. For legal reasons, state-approved degrees may not be issued.