Welcome to the Film Department at ESA! We are the only film program in the TDSB, and we look forward to your portfolio submission. Auditions will take the form of an in-person portfolio presentation using the Visual Arts format during the week of Dec. 7, 2026. Applicants MUST include film examples in their portfolio.
Film/Visual Arts Portfolio
- Up to six (6) artworks, including the “Identity Composition” assigned task.
- The six (6) artworks can include finished or in-process works (storyboards, sketchbook pages, planning notes, concept development evidence, etc.).
- Open choice of materials (e.g., drawing, painting, photography, sculpture) and/or digital (computer-based) media.
- Of the six (6) artworks, only one (1) film/animation may be included (15-120 seconds).
- Present physical originals where reasonably portable.
- Appropriate alternatives may include reproductions, digital display, or other suitable representations of work that cannot reasonably be transported.
- For digital work, film, or animation, be prepared to provide a playable local file for on-site playback.
Identity Composition
- Choose 1-3 objects that reflect(s) something about you, or that are important to you.
- Create a composition that represents your object(s) using any style and any traditional or digital material(s).
Identity – Who a person is, or the qualities of a person or group that make them different from others. (source: www.cambridge.dictionary.org)
Composition – The organization of the elements of design in an artwork, following certain principles of design. Elements: line, shape and form and space, colour, texture and value. Principles: contrast, repetition and rhythm, variety, emphasis, proportion, balance, unity and harmony, and movement. (source: The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 1-8, The Arts)
Portfolio Success Criteria
- Is original and can only be recognized as my own creative product OR is referenced from a source that I have identified.
- Shows expressive use of the elements and principles of design.
- Showcases my personal ideas and has an imaginative approach.
- Successfully demonstrates the application of skills and techniques.
- Film/Animation (if applicable): Demonstrates narrative. This can include, storyboard, script, character design, photo essay, film screenshots.
- Film and/or animation can demonstrate successful editing and sound.
Sources
If any artwork was inspired by, adapted from, or based on an existing artwork, image, photograph, design, or other source, identify it. Include the artist/creator (if known), title of the work, and where you found it (for example, website, book, or individual).
You may provide a one-page source/reference sheet at the live event OR identify the required source information verbally during the live session.
Live Reflection
As part of your live demonstration, you will participate in a reflection discussion lasting 2 to no more than 3 minutes. Please be prepared to discuss the areas of reflection listed below without the aid of supporting notes. Specific questions will be provided during the live reflection.
- Creative process
- Artistic identity
Choose ONE portfolio artwork as the focus of your reflection discussion.
Live Reflection Success Criteria
- I explain how I created my chosen artwork by describing my ideas, choices, and process.
- I use specific details when reflecting on my creative interests and identity.
Authenticity
Present artwork you created independently, without the use of generative AI. Your live reflection must represent your own thinking.
More information:
If you have specific questions about the program, please contact the Department Head, Kevin Johnson: kevin.johnson@tdsb.on.ca