Young visual artists learn creative processes and techniques from established artists.
Emerging visual artists attend this intensive two-year program to build on and develop artistic, conceptual and creative skills, as well as attain the discipline and confidence necessary to investigate their own imagery and self-expression.
With the guidance of teaching artists/mentors, Visual Arts students gain hands-on experience exploring different mediums and techniques in the following studio practices:
Animation and Motion Design | Architecture and 3D Modeling | Ceramics | Drawing | Graphic Design | Metal Work | Painting | Photography | Printmaking | Sculpture
In the Residential High School program, young artists learn to be constructively critical of their own and others' artwork while gaining the tools necessary to be competitive in a creative environment. They also gain experience preparing portfolios, exhibiting artwork in regional exhibitions, and entering local and national competitions. During their senior year, students choose an art concentration, allowing them to dive deep into their medium of choice.
When To Apply
Visual Arts students apply online and audition for the Residential High School program while in the 10th grade to attend in the 11th and 12th grades.
See additional application and audition information below.



Visual Arts graduates go on to attend...
Application
First Application Deadline: $50 application fee automatically waived if application form is submitted by November 30, 2020
Final Application & Mail-In Portfolio Deadline: January 6, 2021
- Components for Online Application
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Inquiry & Login Credentials
Application Form
Passport-Style ID Photo
Art Experience
Personal Essay *see details below*
Art Area Recommendation
Academic Recommendation
Official High School Transcript
Current Report Card
Current Attendance Record
Guidance/Registrar Form
Mail-In Portfolio *see details below*
- Personal Essay
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Finished essays will be uploaded to the application.
There is a direct correlation between an understanding of the humanities and an appreciation of the visual arts. Please select a well-known artwork that is important to you. In your essay, write about how your experience of that work was enriched by your understanding of the artist and/or the social context in which the artist was working.
Your essay should be between 500-800 words. This is an opportunity to give the Admissions Committee a sense of the applicant as an individual. Use 12-point font, double-spaced, and include your name in the top right corner of the page.
Upload the essay in Word or PDF format. Do not upload using the PAGES app.
- Mail-In Portfolio
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The Mail-In Portfolio is part of the application and must be postmarked by January 6, 2021. Overnighting your artwork is not necessary; call or text Daphne, our visual arts liaison, at 864-546-0197 with any questions.
Mail the three (3) pieces of artwork to:
SCGSAH - Office of Admissions
15 University Street
Greenville, SC 29601
Audition
The Visual Arts Residential High School Auditions will be held virtually this year.
All applicants will submit images of their audition portfolio and sketchbook pages by January 22, 2021. See "Audition Requirements & Submission Guidelines" below for more details.
Selected applicants will be invited to a virtual audition made up of two parts; a virtual drawing workshop and an interview. The portfolios, sketchbook, research, and drawing workshop may be discussed during the interview. These will take place on various Saturdays during late January & early February.
- Audition Requirements & Submission Guidelines
- Resources for Documenting Artwork
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Use these resources to help you photograph your artwork for the Audition Presentation.
How to photograph your art at home
How to photograph your two-dimensional art with a smartphone
How to photograph your three-dimensional art with a smartphone
How to photograph your art with a digital camera
Use as a last resort: How to photograph your art with a laptop