The Creative Approach Behind Successful Careers
PNCA students graduate with incredible portfolios that set them apart in the arts and design fields. The direct impact of mentorship, internships, and a focus on career outcomes leads to exciting opportunities with top brands like Nike and Adobe and participation in leading arts exhibitions like the Whitney Biennial or the Venice Biennale. Our students are shaping the future of art and design in successful careers.
Subin Yang’s Story
Subin Yang BFA’17 is an illustrator whose vibrant, mission-driven work has shaped campaigns for Google and Instagram. At PNCA, she honed her unique style and found mentorship that inspired her career blending art with social impact, including collaborations with Amnesty International and Chobani.
![Subin Yang's work - Animation](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/subin-yang-animation.gif?class=clusterli)
![Subin Yang's work](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/subin-yang-met-family-gala.jpg?class=clusterli)
![Subin Yang's work - Animation](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/subin-yang-animation.gif?class=clusterli)
![Subin Yang's work](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/subin-yang-met-family-gala.jpg?class=clusterli)
Transformative Internships and Immersive Study Abroad Experiences
At PNCA, many of our students dive into real-world internships during their junior and senior years, and also take part in our exciting study abroad programs. These transformative experiences and opportunities, combined with a supportive community and faculty, equip our students with the skills to thrive in the professional world.
Crimson's Story
Crimson Ravarra BFA’24 approached PNCA with openness and enthusiasm, taking on every opportunity to be challenged creatively. During their summer internship at the Portland Institute of Contemporary Art they were able to contribute to the renowned Time-Based Arts Festival; and their experience was expanded yet again with a semester in the United Kingdom at the University for the Creative Arts in Farnham.
![Crimson in studio](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/2024-04-wu-student-features-dzc_6461.jpg?class=clusterli)
![crimson working in gallery](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/2024-04-wu-student-features-dzc_6581.jpg?class=clusterpi)
![Crimson in studio](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/2024-04-wu-student-features-dzc_6461.jpg?class=clusterli)
![crimson working in gallery](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/stories/2024-04-wu-student-features-dzc_6581.jpg?class=clusterpi)
Thriving in a Creative Community
At the creative heart of Portland, PNCA is a center for communities of artists, designers, and scholars. Our students are supported by incredible mentors and faculty, and have the opportunity to expand their perspective with visiting artists. PNCA presents more free public programs and exhibitions in a given year than any other arts institution in the city. From our Symposium to our Visiting Artist Lecture and Exhibition series, PNCA is setting the tone in Portland.
First Thursdays
PNCA hosts First Thursday Art Walks in the North Park Blocks, celebrating Portland’s vibrant creative culture. These events bring together local artists, businesses, and craftspeople through engaging public programming. By serving as a hub for cultural exchange, PNCA reinforces its role as a cornerstone of artistic and community engagement in Portland.
![First Thursday guests at PNCA campus](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/pnca-general-images/pnca-ft-may-2024-031.webp?class=clusterli)
![A PNCA student at First Thursday](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/pnca-general-images/pnca-ft-may-2024-081.webp?class=clusterpi)
![First Thursday guests at PNCA campus](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/pnca-general-images/pnca-ft-may-2024-031.webp?class=clusterli)
![A PNCA student at First Thursday](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/pnca-general-images/pnca-ft-may-2024-081.webp?class=clusterpi)
Our programs
Explore PNCA
![student in the printmaking studio](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/pnca-general-images/20220330_pnca_0248.jpg?class=clusterli)
A visit is the best way to immerse yourself in our vibrant campus and city. Come by for a campus tour, and an admissions counselor will help review your portfolio ahead of your application.
![pnca main campus](https://willamette.b-cdn.net/pnca-general-images/pnca-focus-week-sp22-lifestyle-080.jpg?class=2columnmedia)