Creative Compass | Mentorships for Artists
Personalized portfolio mentorship for high school artists applying to art school — and the parents walking alongside them.
It's Not About Having the Most Talent… It's About Presenting the Right Portfolio
Most students don't get into their dream art school because of raw talent. They get in because their portfolio is intentional, well-rounded, and tells a compelling story. That's exactly what we build together in Creative Compass.
If Any of This Sounds Familiar… You're in the Right Place
- You don't know what colleges actually want to see
- Every school has different requirements — and figuring out what makes a portfolio stand out feels like guesswork without someone who's been through it before.
- Your teen is talented, but the portfolio isn't there yet
- You can see their potential — but translating that into a cohesive, compelling body of work that opens doors to RISD, SCAD, or Ringling? That's a different skill entirely.
- Your teen needs more than YouTube tutorials
- They need real feedback, real instruction, and someone who can see where the gaps are and guide them strategically — not just cheer from the sidelines.
- The process feels overwhelming for both of you.
- Deadlines, essays, auditions, requirements — it's a lot. And if you don't have an art background yourself, it can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded.
You're not alone in this — and your teen doesn't have to figure it out by themselves. That's exactly what Creative Compass is here for.
With Creative Compass, Your Teen Will:
- Build a portfolio that's well-rounded, personal, and meets specific college requirements
- Fill portfolio gaps strategically — no more guessing what's missing
- Develop technical skills across multiple mediums with step-by-step guided instruction
- Gain the confidence to present their work and tell their creative story
- Get support with essays, school selection, and the full application process
- Work with an instructor who has helped students get into RISD, SCAD, Ringling, and more
And as a parent — you'll finally feel informed, supported, and confident that your child is on the right path.
Students have been accepted to :
RISD · SCAD · Ringling College of Art & Design · Tufts University (SMFA) and programs across illustration, fine arts, graphic design & more
What you will receive each month
Portfolio Assessment & Strategic Planning
We start with an in-depth 30-minute portfolio critique via Zoom — fully recorded so you can revisit it anytime. I evaluate range of mediums, foundational skills, cohesiveness, and alignment with your target schools' requirements. From there, we create a clear, actionable plan with specific steps, timelines, and projects tailored to your student's goals. No more guessing — just a focused, manageable roadmap to a standout portfolio.
Two Monthly 1-on-1 Instruction Sessions
Two 1.5-hour personalized Zoom sessions every month, tailored entirely to your student's unique needs. We work side by side — building new artwork from scratch, refining existing pieces, and addressing specific gaps in their portfolio. We explore mediums, techniques, and subject matter that align with both their artistic voice and the requirements of their target schools. In-person sessions can be added on for students within a reasonable distance from Califon, NJ.
Monthly Office Hours & Ongoing Support
Once a month, I host dedicated office hours for students — a space to ask questions, get quick critiques, check in on progress, and hear from other students going through the same journey. I also help with essay writing, school selection, and any big decisions along the way. This isn't just instruction — it's full support for both student and parent throughout one of the most important applications of their life.
What Students & Parents Are Saying
Andrea has helped my child grow tremendously in such a short period. Not only has my daughter created a strong collection of artwork she has gained confidence and feels secure going into the next chapter of her journey. This experience gave me so much peace of mind!
Brenda L, Mother of Student
I have been learning with Andrea for many years and truly love her as a teacher. She has helped me improve my skills tremendously, and I’ve grown so much in various mediums. She explains things in a way that makes it easier for me to understand, guiding me step by step as I work on my drawings. At the same time, she encourages me to use my own perspective and imagination, allowing me to develop my unique artistic style.
Sahana, Art Student
Andrea’s instruction was key to my portfolio development. She gave me the fundamental skills I needed to be able to express myself well with drawing and painting. As a result, I was accepted to every art school to which I applied, and I was offered several scholarships. I wouldn’t be the professional I am today without her!
Abigail Rae L, Art Student
Student Portfolio Work
A glimpse at what our students have created on their way to art school.
Hear from Creative Compass Members
Divya A, Mother of Student
Andrea kept me enthusiastic about art for over nine years. She has helped me fine tune my artistic technique ever since I was eight years old. I was able to submit a strong portfolio when applying to college. She has been a very influential and kind role model for me in my childhood.
Brian H, Former Student
Lucia, Art Student
Here is a small collection of some examples of my artwork. For my full portfolio visit andreagianchiglia.com
What's in Your Monthly Package
Everything your student needs — in one focused, supportive program.
Planning and Critiquing
-Initial consultation -30 min portfolio review of best works
-A strategic game plan to accomplish goals on a timely manner
Lessons and development
-Two 1 hour Virtual live lessons to create new work step by step with me*
-In person can be added on if within a reasonable radius from Califon, NJ.
-Check-ins and support throughout the month
Support, office hours and more
-A one hour office hour opportunity for students to ask questions, watch or be critiqued on progress work and to share anything they like.
- An online community with others enrolled to bounce ideas and have peer support.
- A personalized recommendation letter
"Success is where preparation and opportunity meet." - Bobby Unser
Building a Portfolio That Opens Doors
ARE YOU READY?
- 1:1 instruction
- Group Office hours and Support
- Goal setting, plan creation, critiques
Questions? I've Got You.
What grade should be student be in to start?
Creative Compass is ideal for rising high school juniors and seniors preparing for college applications. However, if your student is earlier in high school and wants to get a head start on building skills, reach out and we can discuss the best approach.
What if my child already has some portfolio pieces?
That's great — we start with what they have. The initial portfolio critique helps us see what's working, what's missing, and exactly what to create next to strengthen the overall body of work.
Do sessions have to be virtual?
The core program is delivered via Zoom so students anywhere can join. In-person sessions can be added on for families within a reasonable distance from Califon, NJ.
Whats schools have your students been accepted into?
Students have been accepted to RISD, SCAD, Ringling College of Art and Design, Tufts University (SMFA), and a variety of other programs across illustration, fine arts, graphic design, and more — many with scholarships.
How many students do you take at once?
Spaces are intentionally limited to ensure every student gets the personalized attention they deserve. Once spots are filled, enrollment closes - so if you're interested, reaching out sooner is always better.
I'm a parent with no art background will I understand whats happening?
Absolutely — and you're exactly who this program is designed for. I keep parents in the loop every step of the way, explain everything in plain language, and offer support for the whole family throughout the process.
