The Pokémon TCG Illustration Contest 2024 is under way, and talented artists are preparing their incredible artwork for submission. This latest competition is yet another opportunity for artists to showcase their love of Pokémon and their amazing talents. Previous contests have also been memorable, as you can see in this gallery of former winners.
To talk a little bit about the contest, two special members from Creatures Inc. sat down for a conversation. Pokémon TCG art director Satoru Nagaya and illustration director Haru Saito shared their tips on how to create magical Pokémon art.
Haru Saito (left) and Satoru Nagaya of Creatures Inc. know what it takes to make amazing Pokémon TCG illustrations.
Ms. Saito notes that there are two divisions for this competition—standard card illustrations and ex card illustrations. For the ex division, it’s really important to capture the Pokémon’s “ex-ness” with art springing forth from the art box. But that can be a little tricky. Here’s an example using Lucario ex comparing two approaches, one preferred over the other.
The card on the left is the one that made it into stores. The one on the right was specially prepared to show what not to do. The art covers the attack name, making the card hard to read. The art is clearly dynamic, but it’s important that the visuals don’t interfere with gameplay!
Artists should also keep in mind the theme of this year’s competition, “Magical Pokémon Moments.” The goal is not simply to put together a piece depicting one of the 10 potential Pokémon, but to think about what that Pokémon is doing at a special moment in time.
Mr. Nagaya also notes that submissions shouldn’t include Shiny Pokémon. Plus, the art shouldn’t include text or numbers in the background. If artists want to include other Pokémon in their creation, it should remain clear who the main subject is. And there are plenty more guidelines available on the official site to keep in mind as artists start laying out their work.
Thanks to Ms. Saito and Mr. Nagaya for their guidance as artists prepare their amazing illustrations. If you’re interested in submitting your artwork, be sure to visit the Pokémon TCG Illustration Contest 2024 official website. Remember that you can submit up to three pieces of art total for consideration.
Good luck to all competitors!
