Why I Love Review Boards
Since SMFA students have review boards instead of letter grades in studio classes, I was, at first, unsure how to justify my work to professors and peers. However, over time, I realized review boards are less about judgment and more about growth, reflection, and preparation for life as an artist.
If "review board" sounds unfamiliar—don’t worry, I was in the same boat! At SMFA, review boards happen at the end of each semester when students present a body of work to a small group of faculty and peers, reflecting on their process, challenges, and growth. You also get constructive feedback and consider your next steps as an artist. The feedback I've received during review boards has shaped my work and my path at SMFA. From suggestions about classes to recommendations of artists and research to explore, these conversations have deepened my practice and guided me toward a curriculum that aligns with my artistic goals.
Review boards replace traditional grades with meaningful dialogue, assessing not just technical skills but also conceptual depth, creative risk-taking, and personal growth. One of the best things about this process is how it trains you to think critically about your own work. As artists, we’re constantly growing and evolving, and the ability to articulate your artistic intentions is a crucial skill—especially if you’re applying for residencies, pitching projects, or reflecting on your progress. Review boards encourage self-reflection, build connections with faculty and peers, and really help you develop a professional portfolio.
My first review board I was so nervous—I kept wondering, "Will I be able to explain my ideas clearly? Is my work 'good enough'?" But the review board turned out to be a conversation filled with thoughtful questions and encouraging dialogue that pushed me to see my work from new perspectives and inspired me to take creative risks in later projects. For me, review boards have been a key part of making SMFA feel like home. They foster a culture of support, growth, and artistic dialogue, shaping not just what I create but also how I see myself as an artist. When it comes to review boards, they will shape you as an artist in ways that grades never could.
