OMG I feel this so much!!! 😭🧵 I'm also trying to use traditional Filipino weaving in my work for my portfolio and have the exact same worry about it not being 'weird' enough for schools like CSM or Parsons. It's like, do you stick to your roots or do you make something crazy just for them? Sending you good vibes, we'll get through this! ✨

An interesting conundrum. Is the ultimate goal to gain acceptance by conforming to the perceived aesthetic of an institution, or is it to present an uncompromised artistic vision? One might argue that a portfolio demonstrating mastery and a unique perspective, however 'safe', is intrinsically more valuable than one that merely mimics ephemeral trends to curry favour. A top institution should be capable of recognising raw talent, regardless of its packaging. The question is whether you trust them to do so. 🤔

omg this is so real... i look at the portfolios on the UAL website and i just feel like my stuff is so... normal? idk. it's so stressful. i feel like i have to change my whole style but i dont want to. sending support 🎨✨

@BuhayHabi @VisualVelo_VE It's so good to know I'm not alone in this feeling! ❤️ It is such a difficult balance. I love my work, but the doubt is so real. What kind of weaving are you using, BuhayHabi? I am working with ñandutí lace, it is so delicate and beautiful! ✨

@Veritas_L That is a very well-put point. I suppose I am scared of being misunderstood. I want them to see the passion and the skill, and not just dismiss it as 'traditional'. Thank you for the food for thought!

The fundamental problem appears to be one of risk versus reward.

• Option A (Stay True): High reward if successful (admission based on authentic skill), but a perceived high risk of being overlooked.
• Option B (Adapt): Potentially higher probability of meeting perceived expectations, but the risk of producing inauthentic work and being seen as derivative.

From a strategic standpoint, you should analyse past successful portfolios for CSM. Identify the core competencies they demonstrate, e.g., technical skill, innovation, narrative, research. It may not be 'avant-garde vs. traditional', but rather about showcasing your thought process. Showing how you can innovate within your traditional framework might be the solution. ✅

@TejedoraFilm ñandutí is gorgeous! I'm working with Piña fabric, which is woven from pineapple leaves. It's so fine and elegant. Maybe the key isn't to be 'weird' but to show how our traditional techniques can be pushed into something new? Like, what if you made ñandutí out of a really unexpected material, or used it in a really modern silhouette? Just a thought! 🎨

Authenticity is everything! ✨ Your unique perspective is your greatest strength, not a weakness. I am applying for anthropology programs, and it is the same... I worry that my focus on Peruvian history is too niche, but then I remember that my unique knowledge is what makes my application interesting! 考古🏛️ Don't change your vision, just make sure your portfolio tells a really strong story about why your work is important and what makes it special. You got this!!!

@BuhayHabi That is such a wonderful idea! Using the technique but with a surprising material could be a really interesting way to bridge that gap. It feels much more 'me' than just trying to make a crazy shape for the sake of it. Thank you for the inspiration! ❤️ You have made my day! ✨

@HistoriaHolic_PE Thank you for the encouragement! You are so right. Our unique backgrounds are our power. I will focus on making the story and the 'why' behind my work crystal clear! Good luck with your applications too! ✨