Introduction
Annotations are one of the most powerful tools in your IB Visual Arts portfolio. While your experiments and artworks show your skills, annotations explain your intentions, challenges, and growth. Examiners use them to understand how you think as an artist. Strong annotations can turn simple experiments into evidence of risk-taking and reflection.
This guide will show you how to write clear, thoughtful annotations that strengthen your IB Visual Arts portfolio.
Why Annotations Matter
- Show intentionality in experiments.
- Provide reflection on successes and failures.
- Connect works to your theme and exhibition.
- Demonstrate critical thinking.
- Make your process examiner-friendly.
What to Include in Annotations
1. Intent
- Why did you start this experiment or artwork?
- Example: “I wanted to explore how layering text could change the meaning of a portrait.”
2. Process
- What techniques or materials did you use?
- Example: “I experimented with acrylic washes over charcoal drawing.”
3. Reflection
- What worked? What didn’t?
- Example: “The textures created depth, but the color balance was weak.”
4. Influence
- Which artist, culture, or context inspired the work?
- Example: “Inspired by Basquiat, I incorporated graffiti-like marks.”
5. Next Steps
- How will this experiment influence your next work?
- Example: “Next, I’ll test layering text digitally for more control.”
Annotation Starters
- “This experiment allowed me to…”
- “I struggled with…”
- “This work connects to my theme because…”
- “Inspired by ___, I tried…”
- “If I did this again, I would…”
Tips for Writing Strong Annotations
- Keep them short but insightful (3–5 sentences).
- Write in first person to show authenticity.
- Pair annotations with visual evidence (photos, sketches).
- Avoid vague language — be specific.
- Show growth by linking experiments to future work.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Writing annotations that only describe the artwork.
- Using vague comments like “I like this” or “It turned out well.”
- Skipping failed experiments instead of reflecting on them.
- Overloading screens with long paragraphs of text.
- Forgetting to connect annotations to theme or exhibition.
FAQs on Annotations
Q1: Do all portfolio pages need annotations?
Not every page, but consistent annotations strengthen your portfolio.
Q2: Should annotations be handwritten or typed?
Both are acceptable — just ensure they are legible when digitized.
Q3: How long should annotations be?
Usually 3–5 sentences per experiment or page.
Q4: Do annotations affect my final grade?
Yes — they show examiners reflection, critical thinking, and growth.
Q5: Should annotations be formal or casual?
Use a professional but personal tone — reflective, not overly academic.
Conclusion
Strong annotations in your IB Visual Arts portfolio demonstrate intent, reflection, and growth. By explaining your purpose, process, influences, and next steps, you make your portfolio examiner-ready and show that you are a thoughtful, reflective artist. Annotations are not just notes — they are your voice in the portfolio, guiding examiners through your journey.
