Hi all!

I am in the process of applying to a few first-professional MLA degree programs across the country and I am preparing my portfolio. My background is in Urban Economic & Retail Planning with most course work being in the social and economic realms of planning. By this I mean that I haven't had much coursework in design. I have taken drawing and painting classes, along with a few architectural design courses at Syracuse University, however the majority of my portfolio material will be that which is not directly related to the field of landscape architecture itself -self portraits, still life paintings, model making etc.. I want to be able to prove that I have the artistic skills necessary to pursue this degree however, I am having trouble connecting that which I have created with what my purpose in studying LA is... I am looking at the field from a public-purpose perspective. I want to design parks and public use spaces to regain a sense of community in places that have lost it. 

any suggestions???

Thanks!