Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2024: A Creative Opportunity for Trainers Worldwide
Calling all aspiring Pokémon artists! The Pokémon Company has just unveiled an exciting opportunity for talented illustrators to leave their mark on the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG). The Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2024 is back and bigger than ever, with a broader international scope that now includes Australia, alongside Canada, Japan, New Zealand, the US, and the UK. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing your Pokémon-themed artwork on an official card, this is your chance to shine. The last Illustration Contest was for only US and Canada, you can view that contest here and the winners cards here!
Important Dates
- Entry Period: October 12, 2023, (6:00 a.m. Pacific Time) – January 31, 2024, (5:59 a.m. Pacific Time)
- Winners Announcement: September 2024
About the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2024
The Pokémon Trading Card Game, developed by Creatures Inc., has captured the hearts of fans worldwide for over two decades. Now, the TCG offers artists a chance to contribute their unique creations to the Pokémon universe. This illustrious contest has evolved over the years, with previous iterations showcasing fantastic artwork and uncovering hidden talents.
Theme: Magical Pokémon Moments
This year’s theme, “Magical Pokémon Moments,” invites artists to capture the enchantment of the Pokémon world. Participants can choose from two divisions: Standard Card Illustration and ex Card Illustration. Artists can depict a Pokémon enjoying a moment in its day or create an illustration that showcases the Pokémon looking cool and dynamic.
Eligibility and Prizes
- Participants must be of legal age in their respective countries.
- Legal residents of Japan, UK, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand must be at least 18 years old to participate.
- Legal residents of the US must be at least 18 years old to participate. However, residents of Alabama or Nebraska must be at least 19 years old, and residents of Mississippi must be at least 21 years old.
- Prizes include a Grand Prize of $5,000, Best Standard Card Illustration and Best ex Card Illustration prizes of $3,000 each, and more.
Artwork Specifications
- Artists must follow the theme and create Pokémon illustrations with backgrounds.
- Alphanumeric text or text expressions should not be used in the background.
- Generally, one Pokémon should be the main subject per illustration, although additional Pokémon are allowed as long as the primary subject is clear.
- Each artist can submit up to three illustrations, whether Standard Card or ex Card illustrations, featuring the same or different Pokémon.
- Choose from one of the ten Pokemon below to be in your Artwork.
Technical Specifications
- Standard Card Illustrations: 1106 pixels wide x 696 pixels high, JPEG or PNG (RGB), under 3 MB.
- ex Card Illustrations: 1413 pixels wide x 1924 pixels high, JPEG or PNG (RGB), under 3 MB.
- For ex card illustrations, artists must provide two versions: one embedded into the card template and one as the standalone illustration.
How to Enter
Interested artists should carefully read the Art Submission Guidelines and Privacy Policy before submitting their work through the entry form. View the official site here.
Judges
A panel of judges, including Tsunekazu Ishihara, President of The Pokémon Company, and other esteemed members from The Pokémon Company and Creatures Inc., will review all submissions.
Selection Process
The judges will evaluate entries based on the following criteria:
- Interpretation and clarity of the theme (40%)
- Creativity and originality (30%)
- Overall design (30%)
- Appropriateness for the Pokémon brand
This illustrious contest promises to unearth new talents and bring captivating Pokémon moments to life through incredible artwork. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey, the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2024 offers a fantastic opportunity to be part of Pokémon history. So, pick up your digital or traditional art tools, and let your imagination run wild as you dive into the enchanting world of Pokémon! Good luck, Trainers!
