---
title: "Art Exam & Portfolio Preparation for College Admissions - mytribe"
description: "Struggling with your art exam or portfolio? Get expert guidance for ICSE & drawing grade exams, and build a standout art college portfolio. Master memory drawing & more at Shefali's Art Classes. Book a trial!"
canonical: https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation
last_updated: 2026-02-16
---

# Art Exam & Portfolio Preparation in Mumbai

By [Shefali Raj](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses) · I help you prepare for Maharashtra art exams with real mock tests, clear section plans, practical tips, and guide you to build a strong art portfolio for college admissions.

## Locations

At studio in Vile Parle West, Mumbai

### Visit at

- Studio in Vile Parle West, Mumbai (Easily accessible from Juhu Beach, Andheri West, Lokhandwala Complex, Santacruz West, Vile Parle Railway Station)

## Pricing guide (estimates)

These are indicative prices based on provider's past work. Enquire now to find out final quote.

### High-Performance Board Exam Coaching (ICSE / IGCSE / SSC)

Weekly coaching targeting 95+ marks in 10th-grade boards using the 35-20-35 minute exam strategy and strict time-management drills.

Typically ₹10-12K per month (estimate)

#### Curriculum Focus
*   **Nature Study & Object Drawing:** Rigorous training in light, shadow, and perspective specifically for the Nature paper.
*   **Memory Drawing:** Formulaic approach to render 4+ human figures in dynamic action within strict time limits.

#### The 99-Mark Strategy
*   **Timed Simulations:** Monthly mock tests mimicking 3-hour board conditions.
*   **Time Management:** Drill-based training on the specific 35-20-35 minute breakdown for drawing vs coloring.
*   **Correction:** Personal correction on every sheet with feedback on weak zones like hands, feet, or draping.

#### Infrastructure
*   Use of studio donkey benches and easels.
*   Provision of common class supplies including water containers, rags, and basic paper for drills. Students bring their own exam-grade art kits.

### Govt. Grade Exam Crash Course (Elementary & Intermediate)

A 3-month seasonal course covering Object Drawing, Memory Drawing, Design, and Geometry specifically for the Maharashtra State Grade Exams.

Typically ₹15-18K per course (estimate)

#### Syllabus Coverage (4 Papers)
*   **Object Drawing:** Still life with man-made objects and natural elements.
*   **Memory Drawing:** Creating street or festival scenes with human figures from imagination.
*   **Design:** 2D Design basics using geometry and color theory suited for the exam format.
*   **Plane Geometry & Lettering:** Technical coaching for the geometry paper.

#### Exam Logistics
*   **Rapid Rendering:** Techniques to color large backgrounds quickly using watercolors.
*   **Past Papers:** Practice sessions solving papers from previous years.

#### Materials
*   Includes practice paper bundles.
*   Includes use of class geometry boxes and shared coloring materials during Mock Test phases.

### Architecture & Design Portfolio Mentorship

Intensive preparation for NID, NIFT, and Parsons admissions covering life drawing, charcoal portraiture, and curation of 10-15 final portfolio pieces.

Typically ₹17-19K per month (estimate)

#### Advanced Skill Development
*   **Charcoal & Portraiture:** Specialized training in charcoal powder and soft chalk techniques for hyper-realistic portraits.
*   **Life Drawing:** Anatomy sketches and perspective drawings required for NATA and JEE Paper 2 aptitude tests.
*   **Mixed Media:** Guidance on combining newspapers, acrylics, and pen work for unique visual textures.

#### Portfolio Curation
*   **Selection & Edit:** Critical review to select the best 10-15 pieces for the final digital or physical portfolio.
*   **Photography:** Guidance on how to photograph artworks correctly for digital uploads.
*   **Concept Ideation:** Mentorship on developing a cohesive theme for the portfolio.

#### Studio Access
*   Recommended frequency of 3 sessions per week.
*   Access to studio reference library and advanced materials like fixatives and textured papers.

## About Art Exam & Portfolio Preparation

I see art exams and portfolio prep as a big step in your creative safar (journey), not just a stressful hurdle. My aim is to make this process feel less like a test and more like a chance to show what makes your art special.

### Exam Prep That Feels Real

If you’re gearing up for Maharashtra art grade exams, I’ve got your back. With decades of experience, I know the ins and outs - from object drawing to memory drawing. Memory drawing can be tough, but chinta mat karo (don’t worry). We’ll do mock tests, break down scenes, and I’ll share all those little tricks that actually work. You’ll get a clear plan for tackling each section, so you don’t get stuck or run out of time.

### Portfolio That Tells Your Story

Your portfolio isn’t just a bunch of drawings. It’s your pehchaan (identity). We’ll build it around what you love - sketching, painting, mixed media, whatever sparks your interest. I help you experiment with different mediums, so your portfolio stands out for art college admission.

### Beyond the Syllabus

We don’t just stick to textbooks. I encourage entering art competitions, national and international. Winning or even participating boosts your confidence and gives your portfolio that extra edge.

The real win? When you feel proud of what you’ve created. That’s the tapassya ka phal (fruit of my hard work) for me.

## Highlights

Browse through Shefali Raj's best work.

### [Featured](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation/featured)

- [Video: It fills my heart with joy to hear Sana share her experience. She scored an incredible 99 in her art exams, and seeing her grow from a small kid in my class to this confident young artist is the greatest reward for me.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/697937d0-ee9d-4795-a272-2b0771d80464)
- [Video: Come, let me give you a small tour of our happy place. You can see students of all ages exploring what they love, from portrait sketching to texture painting. My main motto is that every child should enjoy their art safar and feel confident in what they create.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/aec0a908-bc80-4b9a-b73f-d30217a13183)
- [Video: Zaisha’s journey with me from senior KG to her 10th grade has been so special. Hearing her talk about her achievements and scoring a 98 in her ICSE art exam makes me feel so proud. It is a blessing to be her teacher.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9ff2c15d-d97b-478e-9501-114ffe60b026)
- ![This beautiful, vibrant painting was created by one of my dear students. I believe art is a meditative process, and this piece shows the joy and focus that goes into every single brushstroke. It's a wonderful example of finding your own style for a strong portfolio.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/2b49d7bc-7873-4040-b0bf-2448616d1a25)
- [Video: The Maharashtra board exams can feel like a big challenge, but we can prepare for them calmly. Here are a few of my tips for object drawing and memory drawing, focusing on how to manage your time and compose your figures. We practice these things in mock tests so you feel ready.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b301b655-6981-4356-9894-b6ed434f7ee8)
- [Video: For me, painting is like meditation. This is a glimpse into my own process of creating a watercolor portrait, from the first pencil sketch to layering the colors. I find that my own practice helps me guide my students better.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/1b1b2e8b-4235-47a7-9f1e-516dc8801f03)
- [Video: I am always so proud when my students get recognition for their hard work. This shows some of the many awards they have won in national and international competitions, like the Nandalal Bose Gold Medal and the Bal Ratna Award.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/12113d55-0775-433d-a3e8-22e9145bd0b1)
- ![This is a moment of pure happiness. Here I am with my student Aahana, celebrating her wonderful achievement in the ICSE 10th grade art exam. Seeing my students succeed is the true tapassya ka phal.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/ac0785ff-2801-41f7-a922-06ad0d5cd04d)

### [Our Students' Success Stories](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation/our-students-success-stories)

- [Video: Listen to what my 10th graders have to say. In the middle of all the study pressure, art becomes their quiet space to relax and find themselves. It shows that art is not just for exams, but for life.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/feb65201-d581-4cf3-89eb-e216b57580dc)
- [Video: This is Aahana, who scored a fantastic 96 in her ICSE board exam for art. Even though she joined a little late, her dedication was amazing, and it was a joy to support her on this journey.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d9fa12de-7a4b-4d05-bdb3-3d76a4231596)
- ![Here I am with my student Zaisha, who has been with me for so many years. This trophy is a symbol of her hard work and her brilliant score of 98 in the ICSE art exam.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b644f5b1-7d18-4c98-9e57-22b5188339fb)
- ![A proud moment with my student Sana, celebrating her outstanding score of 99 in the art exam. Her smile and her achievement mean the world to me.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8abe3dc7-7712-4e08-9e5f-782b20f98bb6)

### [Building Your Unique Portfolio](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation/building-your-unique-portfolio)

- [Video: Look at the incredible focus and detail Prisha puts into her charcoal portrait. We work on techniques like shading and blending to bring a face to life, which is a key skill for a strong art portfolio. I am so lucky to be her teacher.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9bdc0684-af7e-4b16-9f5c-c35633a0228b)
- ![A student proudly holding her finished portrait. Using a palette knife and bold colors, she has created a piece full of emotion and strength. This is what we aim for, an artwork that speaks for you.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/60a0544d-6b50-4e61-8d77-b144b7d5de7b)
- ![Here, a young student is learning to create a portrait using a reference image. The process of observing, sketching, and applying color is a journey in itself. It is about enjoying every moment of creation.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/d230300a-e735-4425-931c-f3721e0498dd)
- [Video: This is 12 year old Mahikaa, who has such a love for drawing portraits. Here you can see her progress as she practices with different mediums to find her style. A teacher's role is to see this potential and guide it.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a00e30b0-dae7-492e-a635-709c9aeb9151)
- [Video: Art is always evolving, and so are the tools we use. I was so amazed to see my student Mahikaa create this wonderful one minute portrait sketch on her mobile phone. Her talent shines through, no matter the medium.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/59097210-2cbb-4c7d-ae97-3c036132de00)
- [Video: We also learn by studying the masters. Here, my student Devyam is recreating Van Gogh's famous "Starry Night." This kind of art appreciation helps students understand different styles like impressionism.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/4d72b3ee-9cb6-4fbf-9b02-317348b47156)
- [Video: This is the beautiful process of creation in our class. You can see students working on pencil sketching, colorful paintings, and detailed brushwork. Art is not a product, it is a journey of discovering yourself.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a42e3c01-f76e-4963-aa57-ccf5558e13c7)
- [Video: I am so blessed to have such talented students. This video shows a variety of works in progress, from a watercolor portrait of a Rajasthani man to a detailed Kathakali drawing. Each piece is unique and beautiful.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b27b4dd1-2746-48b2-8ea0-224ef6728f35)
- [Video: Watercolor is a very therapeutic medium, and creating portraits with it is one of my favorite things to teach. This video shows the process of building layers of color, wet into wet, to create soft and expressive skin tones.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8e3decf8-ab74-4bdf-bbd4-4552a863d0f1)
- [Video: Every day, my students teach me something new. Here you can see them learning, experimenting, and finding their own creative magic, from a detailed still life sketch to a colorful monochrome portrait.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f0875143-954c-4351-b3c9-a9aaa62412d4)

### [Mastering Exam Techniques](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation/mastering-exam-techniques)

- [Video: The Maharashtra board exams are around the corner, so here are a few tips for the students. I find that memory drawing can be difficult, so I advise my students to practice drawing at least four figures and to plan their time carefully. We do mock tests like this in class to prepare.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/b301b655-6981-4356-9894-b6ed434f7ee8)

### [Awards and Recognition](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation/awards-and-recognition)

- [Video: This is a sweet memory from 2011, when our art class won the International Rose award. Ten of our students were selected from all over India in a competition by the Czech Republic. It was a great honor to have the consulate come and felicitate our students.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/17cf258d-8879-44b7-8cb1-b079ac7e0a32)
- ![It was an honor to be invited as a judge for an art competition organized by the Lions Club of Juhu. Here I am with some of the wonderful children from more than 30 BMC schools who took part. Their energy and creativity were just amazing.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/9d4bf633-84f6-458c-b4c0-3719611bc172)
- ![A group photo with all the young artists and organizers at the Lions Club of Juhu art competition. It was a beautiful afternoon celebrating art and community, surrounded by palm trees and happy faces.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/a0a01fc6-ea69-4b07-b89e-b2c640cb6bde)
- ![Here we are at the prize distribution ceremony for the inter school art competition. Seeing the excitement on the children's faces as they receive their awards is always a heartwarming experience.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/8b0cba06-3048-4959-9c25-8873131f13a2)
- ![As judges, we had the lovely task of looking through all the creative artworks submitted by the children. Each piece told a unique story, and it was so impressive to see the effort taken by everyone.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/810a082f-f784-41e2-800b-a6b7e243713f)
- ![A happy moment with the other judges and organizers from the Lions Club of Juhu. It is always inspiring to be part of events that encourage art and creativity in our community.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/e5f61242-3bf5-49ac-9288-1cab3a7b06c4)
- ![Here we are, carefully looking at one of the beautiful paintings. Judging is not just about picking a winner, but about appreciating the effort and imagination of every single child.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3bc1f5c9-bb2d-4aa2-bdda-812525aa5c05)

### [A Look Inside Our Classroom](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation/a-look-inside-our-classroom)

- [Video: I was so touched when one of my young students interviewed me about the role of an artist in society. I explained that today, an artist can have a career in over 200 fields, from architecture to fashion design. It is a world full of possibilities.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/3ffbf338-79e7-40da-b54f-3901944545e7)

### [My Art, My Meditation](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-exam-portfolio-preparation/my-art-my-meditation)

- [Video: I love the timeless combination of black, white, and a little bit of red. This video shows me working on a monochrome drawing, adding just a pop of color to bring it to life. It is a simple palette that holds so much power.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/007558bf-9a49-49f0-95f8-a455a9daa4ba)
- ![A little dose of art for myself. I believe in practicing regularly, as it takes me to a meditative state where I lose all track of time. Portrait is my favorite subject, and the time spent creating is always precious.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/f949f029-c1c1-47de-a0b4-7ec554c80704)
- [Video: On Sundays, I love to fill my free time with painting. It helps my mind relax and brings such vibrant colors to my day. This is a throwback to a watercolor portrait I enjoyed working on.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/c8adb1af-ab62-440f-981d-2dc3d138068c)
- [Video: Learning to draw a portrait is a very interesting process. This video shows how I use sketching and charcoal to build up the features of a face. Every face has unique lines and emotions to capture.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/202101b0-9a07-46e2-8fa1-b67f09897ca7)
- [Video: To create a good charcoal artwork, you need the right tools. Here I am showing the use of willow charcoal, a charcoal pencil, and a paper stump for blending. These simple tools help create beautiful and soft shading.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/03bdb2bb-58fa-4f56-9e18-3389332d3854)
- ![Being creative is not just a hobby for me, it is a way of life. I started teaching art in 1988, and my own art studio has become a place where imagination can take flight. It is a blessing to have my profession also be my passion.](https://assets.mytribe.in/insecure/raw:1/plain/s3://mytribe-assets-production/6a38f97c-6328-44cf-b764-d3b4f9a15904)

## Meet your expert

[Shefali Raj](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses)

### My story

Hi, I’m Shefali. Been teaching art since 1988 - feels like yesterday, honestly. Art for me is not about perfect lines, it’s about finding yourself. Kids are my world, they keep me grounded. Jay, one of my students, changed my life - meri zindagi mein ek sundar sa phool khila (a beautiful flower bloomed in my life). I’ve seen art bring courage to kids fighting cancer, and Sonam, who came back after 24 years, still fills me with gratitude. Art heals, art gives hope.

### My work

- **Art classes & workshops for all ages**: I run regular batches, creative art workshops, sketching classes for beginners, and canvas painting for adults.
- **Exam & portfolio guidance**: I help with ICSE, Elementary & Intermediate exam prep, plus portfolio guidance for students.
- **Corporate & celebration art parties**: I organise fun art parties for birthdays or any celebration, and corporate workshops too.
- **My teaching style**: No pressure, just exploring, laughing, and finding your own voice. Art is therapy here.
- **Classroom vibe**: We start with chit-chat, then everyone gets lost in their colors. It’s a space to breathe and relax.

## More services from Shefali Raj

- [Therapeutic Art Sessions](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/therapeutic-art-sessions) · ₹600-1,500 per session (estimate)
- [Art Classes and Courses](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-classes-and-courses) · ₹400-1,200 per session (estimate)
- [Corporate Art Workshops](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/corporate-art-workshops) · ₹800-2,500 per participant (estimate)
- [Art Parties & Group Events](https://mytribe.in/shefalisartclasses/art-parties-group-events) · ₹600-1,500 per person per event (estimate)

## Book

To book Shefali Raj, message mytribe on WhatsApp: [Chat on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/916360004054?text=Hi%2C%20I'm%20looking%20for%20Art%20Exam%20%26%20Portfolio%20Preparation%20by%20Shefali%20Raj.)