The Pokémon Company announced the Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2022, a celebration of the franchise's 25th anniversary.
An expansion of the Pokémon Card Game Illustration Grand Prix, an annual competition held in Japan, this latest contest tasks budding artists with designing a scene inspired by "a moment in a Pokémon’s daily life." Artists can choose from eight Pokémon: Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Arcanine, Greninja, Charizard, Galarian Rapidash, Scizor and Cramorant. While previous contests were limited to Japanese applicants, 2021 marks the first time that creators from the United States can submit their work to The Pokémon Company.
There are a few specifications artists will need to stick to if they want to submit their work. Illustrations should only include one Pokémon and creators will need to design the background of the card too. Entries are limited to three per person; participants can design multiple Pokémon or stick to a single pocket monster.
Of course, it wouldn't be a contest without some highly-sought after prizes. First place is awarded with a cash prize of $5,000 USD and will have their art turned into a special promo card. The Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest 2022 will also pick two First Runner-Ups, one from Japan and one from the United States. Both participants will receive $3,000 USD and will also have their work made into a promo card.
The prizes don't stop there. Two Second Runner-Ups (Japan and United States respectively) will net themselves $1,000 while 15 talented designers will be given a Judges' Award, receiving $500 in the process.
Artists looking to submit their creations can do so from Oct. 13 but will need to get them in before the contest closes on Jan. 31, 2022. The winners will be announced on the official Pokémon Trading Card Game Illustration Contest website in June 2022.
If you're a budding illustrator who just so happens to be a fan of all things Pikachu, then you may want to check out the latest set of the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Evolving Skies introduced a host of beautifully drawn Eeveelutions while also marking the grand return of Dragon Types.
If you'd rather look to the future for inspiration, then you'll want to check out the upcoming Fusion Strike expansion. The set will introduce a new mechanic, the titular Fusion Strike Battle Style, while also featuring the expected collection of Pokémon V and VMAX cards. Fusion Strike launches on Nov. 12.
Source: The Pokémon Company