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Our Mission

We are a portfolio-focused studio specializing in admissions preparation for art high schools, art and design colleges, graduate programs, and Ivy League supplemental portfolios and essays.

Our mission goes beyond teaching technical art skills. We work closely with each student to develop strategic, school-specific portfolios and written materials that clearly communicate artistic vision, strengths, and readiness for highly competitive programs.

Through individualized instruction, small class sizes, and deep admissions insight, we guide students in building cohesive portfolios and compelling essays that meet the exact expectations of top art schools and universities, from specialized art high schools to elite undergraduate and graduate programs.

ART HIGH SCHOOL PORTFOLIO PREPARATION

 Registration is NOW OPEN!

Our Art High School Portfolio Preparation Program is designed for students applying to specialized visual arts high schools in New York City and other competitive programs.

Through structured instruction and individualized mentorship, students develop strong foundational drawing skills while creating portfolio work aligned with each school's audition requirements and admissions expectations.

Students receive school-specific guidance, portfolio development, and ongoing critique designed to help them prepare strategically for the admissions process.

Students Commonly Apply To

• Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts
• Frank Sinatra School of the Arts
• High School of Art and Design
• Edward R. Murrow High School
• Interlochen Arts Academy
• New World School of the Arts
• and other leading visual arts programs

Proven Admissions Results

To date, our art high school applicants have achieved a 100% acceptance record, reflecting the strength of our training, foundation-based curriculum, and individualized preparation.

Year-Round Enrollment

Students may begin at any time throughout the year. Program schedules are individualized based on each student's goals, timeline, and application requirements.

Both intensive and long-term preparation options are available.

Art Class Scene

COLLEGE &TRANSFER PORTFOLIO PREPARATION

Registration is Now Open!

Our College & Transfer Portfolio Preparation Program is designed for students applying to art and design colleges, universities, and competitive transfer programs.

Through individualized mentorship and structured portfolio development, students create a cohesive body of work that reflects technical skill, creative growth, and readiness for undergraduate admissions.

 

Each portfolio is developed according to the student's intended major, strengths, and target schools. Preparation emphasizes concept development, artistic direction, and portfolio presentation aligned with admissions and scholarship expectations.

Students Commonly Apply To

• Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)
• Parsons School of Design
• Pratt Institute
• School of Visual Arts (SVA)
• School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
• Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Cornell University
• New York University (NYU)
• Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
• and other leading art and design programs

Admissions & Scholarship Outcomes

Manhattan Art students have earned admission to many of the world's leading art and design institutions and have received substantial merit-based scholarship awards.

Year-Round Enrollment

Programs are customized based on each student's goals, application timeline, and portfolio requirements.

Both intensive and long-term preparation options are available.

Artist Painting Canvas

ESSAY & SUPPLEMENTAL PREPARATION

Personal Statements • Supplements • Artist Statements

Our Essay & Supplemental Preparation Program supports students applying to art colleges, universities, and Ivy League institutions that require written materials alongside portfolios.

Strong applications require more than artwork alone. Admissions committees evaluate how effectively students communicate their creative identity, academic interests, and future goals through writing.

 

Students receive individualized guidance in developing personal statements, supplemental essays, artist statements, and portfolio-related written materials.

Who This Program Is For

• Art & Design College Applicants
• Ivy League Applicants
• Students Submitting Supplemental Portfolios
• Transfer Applicants
• Graduate School Applicants

Individualized Writing Support

All essay preparation is conducted through private instruction to ensure each student's writing reflects their own voice, experiences, and academic direction.

Students receive structured feedback, revision guidance, and school-specific support throughout the writing process.

Year-Round Enrollment

Students may begin at any time throughout the year.

Preparation plans are customized based on application deadlines and admissions requirements.

Tutoring Session
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"I’ve been going Manhattan Art since my sophomore year of high school and let me say this, going through this program was 100% worth it. At the end of the day all the staff truly cares about you and your future as an artist. They really help you refine your skill and learn many new techniques. I got into all my schools (including all my reach schools) due to my portfolio that I made at Manhattan Art. All my love and support goes out to the staff the people who founded Manhattan Art."

Accepted Schools with scholarships: RISD, PARSONS, SVA, PRATT, SCAD, MICA, SAIC, FIT

Giana Decicco

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Expert Portfolio Guide

How to Create the Best Art Portfolio

Manhattan Art

+ NY Studio: 115 West 30th Street, Suite #1204, New York, NY 10001

+ NJ Studio: 1638 Parker Ave, 2nd FL, Fort Lee, NJ 07024

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