I love guys.

There, I said it. I love them, I love them, I love them.

For many of you it may seem like a simple fan girl obsession, and it probably is. There are a lot of artists here on DA that specialize, or would like to specialize, in the greatness that is the male figure.

So let’s show a little love and appreciation.

Why men? Because, to be very honest, the male figure is an underappreciated subject in the world of art at times.

Let’s start a MOVEMENT.

Strip away the horror clichés and begin the year with something fresh and new.

For the next month, push yourself to create a male persona that will personify your hopes and dreams, as an artist, for the year of 2008.

Make this persona your representation of the New Year and all it holds!

If you find that you draw an abundance of feminine men, then branch out and make this persona the epitome of testosterone-based power.

If you have a problem with animals, jump out of the box for the New Year and dream up an anthro.

If you feel that realism is choking you, try cartoons. If you’re a cartoonist who feels stuck, then give realism a shot.

But, by all means, stray from the norm and try to create something that you feel will inspire you and drive you to improve on at least one aspect that you feel you need work on. Make this one of your muses for 2007.

Who Can Participate?

Anyone is free to participate. Anime artists, comic artists, vector artists, anthro artists, cartoonists, painters, etc.

Will I win something?

No, this is not a contest. There are no prizes to be given other than the inspiration you may very well get from the experience.

Then why participate at all?

Because every now and then you should consider doing art for art’s sake. Don’t think about it too hard.

Can I use an existing character?

Of course not. This is a movement for creation. Using a character you already have would defeat the purpose.

Where should I submit my deviation?

deviantART related -> Devious Fun

What about artwork I do of my concept after that? Should I do something really complicated to show of my skill?

Anything aside from an initial concept can be put into whatever category the deviation fits in. Also, you don't have to go all out with your first concept. It might just complicate it and complications tend to make things much less fun.

Do I have to have it done before the beginning of the year?

No, there is no time-limit on this. Like I said, this is not a contest. It's just for fun so don't put any unneeded pressure on yourself.

I noticed that it’s called ‘Bishonenfest 2008’. Does this mean that my character has to be styled after anime?

No, you don’t have to do anything anime-styled if you don’t want to. If you’re an anime-artist, I highly suggest you don’t do anime. It’s only named Bishonenfest because I didn’t think ‘Testosteronefest’ sounded very catchy.