I went to Japan last Christmas and it was an amazing experience. Sushi trains, wagyu and ramen, the Shinkansen, city views skylines, Shinto shrines, temples, Fuji and more. The experience and the country left an amazing impression on me, but one thing stood clear in my mind above all else: Pokemon. Every city was marked with a visit to a new Pokemon Center, each sporting unique art installations and location-specific products. Everyone embraces Pokemon in Japan; it transcends TV and video games, akin to cultural identity. A lifelong nostalgic interest in Pokemon, which started with my first adventure in Hoenn (Sapphire), was reignited.
I enjoy the videogames, as this is where it all started, but on this trip, the cards really captured my imagination. Wandering around Akihabara, I was amazed by stores displaying cards with amazing designs in rows of tens, twenties, and more, tiered all the way up to the ceiling. So many unique iterations and incredible concepts. It felt like an art gallery with all my favourite mascots.
When I first arrived, Terrastal Festival was available everywhere. By the time I left, it was only available in resellers for triple the cost. It just didn't make sense. Soon after I returned home, through research I became more aware of the "dynamics" around Pokemon cards – scalpers, price hikes and widespread lack of availability. It just wasn't much fun.
So I set out to make my own take through art, just for fun. I had 6 "cards" (canvas each 30x40cm) to make a pokemon scene. The idea was that each scene can stand alone like a Pokemon card, but together make a much bigger picture inspired by the beautiful country of Japan.
One year later I finally finished. You can see the rough step by step in the video. I must stress, I am not a professional artist; there are mistakes and I am sure you can spot them. But it was a fun journey and I hope to do more.
by Candid-College