he 20th anniversary T-Shirt Contest and Art Contests

A-Kon 20 theme this year is None, No Theme, just let you imagination role on this. It's our 20th Anniversary and we just couldn't think of a suitable theme, so we're going to be lazy laid-back and let you pick it. Small disclaimer, no Nudity, nothing inappropriate for a Family Convention (think about a four year old wearing the design), No blood, no violence. We will reserve to reject any entrant based on what is appropriate.

For the T-Shirt Contest Deadline is April 1, 2009 (I know, kinda short notice). Prizes; 2 3-Day Passes, 2 Hotel Room nights, and more. See the Art guidlines linked on this page for further information.


The Web Banner contest starts now. Banners must be either 100x100 or 480x60 .gif or .jpg format. All entrants are to be sent to mike. Deadline is March 17th. Winner(s) to receive 3-Day pass for A-Kon 20.



Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What do you mean I cannot use a girl with a gun?
A. The example says a girl shooting a weapon… We usually do have girls with guns, and many anime fans think girls with guns are fun and we have used them in the past. We could use some art like this, for some specific themes, but not all. However, shooting a gun, holding it in a threatening manner (and this is always open to wide interpretation), or even just pointing the weapon at a target may be viewed in poor taste at this volatile time in America’s schools.

Q. Can A-Kon® reimburse me monetarily for my artwork?
A. Unfortunately, our budget limits us to using volunteer work and we strive to showcase fan artists. Only the winners receive any kind of monetary (or similar) compensation. (Even if we have to use professionally commissioned artwork we usually barter deals with the artists in question). You will get a free copy of how your artwork is used (need more than one? Just ask.) However, using the artwork in your own portfolio or adding the experience to a resume can be of great assistance to your career in the art field. Also, numerous professionals will see your artwork, and this exposure can be very valuable. Sometimes we even have portfolio assessments by pro companies at A-Kon® and THEY will see you did work for us, which is impressive to them.

Q. I have a great idea for a piece of art, but I am not sure if it will work. Before I put all the effort into it, can I discuss it with you first?
A. Believe it or not, the answer is YES! Send all inquiries to Michael Battle at mike@A-Kon.com. Most artists usually sketch out their idea, so we suggest that if you do have this type of question, please scan in a sketch and send it along. Any gif or jpg format is fine. We will try to give you feedback ASAP. There is still no guarantee that we use it. Most likely we will say, “lease just do it, and then we will decide.” The faster you do it, then the faster we can review it.

Q. I am a graphic designer that focuses on layout. I use other people’s artwork and place it effectively in a picture to convey a message or emotion. Can I still participate?
A. Absolutely YES! Either try something using someone else’s work or contact us directly. Another way is to team up with an artist who is good with designing and drawing a character but not well experienced with layout. As a team, both of you will get credit and receive shared benefits. Some people are really good with font design, and we need someone like that for other work. If you want to offer your services but do not have any idea what we might need, please send Michael Battle mike@A-Kon.com an email. If you have a portfolio, we would like to take a look at it, but ONLY after you make the initial inquiry.

Q. Is there a real deadline for the artwork?
A. Yes. T-shirts have a deadline of April 1, 2008. Fyer art will have different deadlines, but most must be in by February 1, 2009 to allow time for minor modifications, printing and distribution. However, we will not wait until those times to do the art. As soon as we get something that works, we will use that on the posters and flyers.

Q. I submitted a T-shirt design last year, and it was not chosen. Can I resubmit the same one again?
A. Yes and no. If it was not chosen as one of the finalists from last year, but you want to resubmit it, please consider first whether it meets all of our guidelines. If you are not sure, send Michael (mike@A-Kon.com) a query letter with a gif version (small file, please) and ask us for guidance.


Q. What if you like my character but not my background?
A. We might ask you to make changes. We might have a layout designer use part of your art in another poster. Remember, work with us, and you will benefit.
Q. Can I submit the art to another publication while I submit it to you?
A. We suggest you do not do this. Ask any professional why. If you do, then you should tell the publisher that it was submitted to A-Kon® and you must tell us. Nobody wants to get into a copyright war.

Q. Can I submit the art to another publication after you use it?
A. Yes. A-Kon® retains no rights to characters beyond use in our promotions and on T-shirts. It is more prudent of you to wait until after the con is over to submit it for other publication.

Q. My art did appear in another publication, but can I use it for A-Kon®?
A. The answer is yes, as long as you retained the rights. Please let us know which publication, and what proof that you retained the rights. AND it cannot be something commissioned for someone else’s specific purpose as that piece then truly belongs to THEM as you did it FOR them and they paid you for it.

Q. I know that a famous group/artist/personality will be at the con, and they have some control over artwork. Either it is their own, or they run the company that owns it or has the rights to it. Can I use it?
A. This is done on a case-by-case basis. If it is not already listed on the web site as a confirmed guest, please drop us an email with your sketch idea. Regardless, please tell us that you are using their art, where you found it, and whether you obtained written permission. If we want to use it, we have to know this.

Q. Will I receive credit for my contribution?
A. Yes.

Q. I do not use electronic media, but instead use oil paint. Can I still submit the artwork?
A. Unfortunately, we are not equipped to convert paintings or anything else to electronic media. However, if it is a standard size, (up to 8.5 x 14), and can be scanned, we can accept it. However, the scanning process always makes a slightly lower quality picture. Please keep that in mind. Paintings and other media can be converted to an electronic picture; but this is outside of our resources.

Q. How do I submit my art?
A. If the file to be sent is under 8 Megs then send all art electronically to Michael Battle at mike@A-Kon.com. If it exceeds this or must be sent by mail, please contact us via email first for the address or another method.

A-Kon® is the oldest continually running, anime-based convention in N. America. Celebrating it’s 20th year in 2009, A-Kon® hosts anime fans and guests, and offers other items of interest ranging from gaming, to independent film, all in the quest to provide the best experience for the fans and bring the most engaging, and educational, entertainment to the anime community. Attendance for A-Kon 19 was 40k attendees. A-Kon will be Friday thru Sunday, May 29th thru 31st 2009, in Downtown Dallas at the Sherton Dallas Hotel and Convention Center.