Introduction
One of the most confusing parts of the IB Visual Arts process portfolio is the screen requirement. Since submissions are digital, students must upload their work as “screens,” but many aren’t sure how many are required or what counts as a screen. Submitting too few can cost marks, while submitting too many can make your portfolio overwhelming.
This guide will explain the IB Visual Arts portfolio screen requirements clearly for both SL and HL students, with tips on how to meet them effectively.
Official IB Screen Requirements
- Standard Level (SL): 9–18 screens
- Higher Level (HL): 13–25 screens
A “screen” is one digital page of your portfolio. It can include text, images, sketches, and photos. Screens should be carefully curated to show variety, experimentation, and reflection.
What Counts as a Screen?
A screen may include:
- Photos of artworks or experiments.
- Artist research with images and annotations.
- Process documentation (sketches, notes, progress photos).
- Reflections on what worked, what failed, and what’s next.
- Thematic exploration and cultural context.
Tip: Multiple images can go on one screen if organized clearly.
How to Meet Screen Requirements
For SL Students (9–18 screens):
- Focus on variety and experimentation.
- Show a balance between visual experiments and written reflections.
- Cover all assessment criteria without overcrowding.
For HL Students (13–25 screens):
- Include more depth — longer reflections, more artist studies, and expanded experimentation.
- Show development over time, from early ideas to refined outcomes.
- Demonstrate global awareness with research into multiple cultural influences.
Structuring Your Screens
- Chronological order: Show how your ideas grew.
- By theme: Group works exploring similar concepts.
- By media: Dedicate screens to different techniques (painting, photography, sculpture).
Choose whichever structure best tells your artistic story.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting fewer than the required minimum.
- Filling screens with unedited process photos without reflection.
- Writing too much text, making screens unreadable.
- Forgetting to include artist influences and cultural context.
- Overcrowding screens with too many unrelated images.
FAQs on Portfolio Screens
Q1: Do unfinished experiments count as screens?
Yes — as long as they include reflection and learning outcomes.
Q2: Can I use one screen for multiple experiments?
Yes, but organize clearly so examiners can follow.
Q3: Do examiners prefer fewer, stronger screens or more, weaker ones?
Stronger, clearer screens are always better than cluttered, unfocused ones.
Q4: Should reflections be handwritten or typed?
Either is fine, but they must be legible in digital format.
Q5: Do SL and HL portfolios use the same criteria?
Yes, but HL portfolios must show more depth, variety, and cultural awareness.
Conclusion
The IB Visual Arts portfolio screen requirements are simple: SL students need 9–18 screens, HL students need 13–25. The key is not just meeting the numbers but using your screens to demonstrate experimentation, research, reflection, and growth. With clear organization and purposeful content, your portfolio will meet examiner expectations and showcase your artistic journey effectively.
