"My Heritage" - Reclaim your story

Overview

"My Heritage" is a 2025 edition of Aime's Dinosaur Trance, aiming to showcase 25 unique African stories told through the vibrant medium of comic art. More than just a book, this project is a movement to preserve and celebrate our roots while fostering a new generation of storytellers. This groundbreaking comic book anthology will feature 25 comic book artists and 25 fashion designers, each illustrating the theme of heritage in their own creative style. This project seeks to celebrate and preserve cultural narratives through the power of visual storytelling and fashion.

Why It Matters

Heritage is the foundation of identity, and this anthology provides a platform for artists to document and share their cultural stories with the world. Created by Africans for Africa and beyond, this project is dedicated to preserving and promoting heritage through the timeless art of storytelling. It aims to inspire young creators' imagination, promote literacy, and introduce African storytelling to a global audience, ensuring that these narratives are not only safeguarded but also evolve through new creative expressions.

Eligibility

• The call is open to digital artists of all ages and skill levels.
• Participants must reside and be from the continent of Africa.
• Participants may submit multiple entries.

Submission Requirements

To be considered for inclusion in the "My Heritage" comic book anthology, please submit the following to this form by JUNE-30-2025

1. Concept Brief (Maximum 1 Page):
   • Synopsis: A summary of your three-page comic story, outlining the characters, and plot.
   • Character Designs: Sketches or illustrations of the main characters in your story.
   • Style and Approach: A description of your artistic style and how it will contribute to your story.
   • Contact Information: Include your name, email address, country of residence, and any relevant social media links.
2. Artwork Format:
   • Illustrations
   • Comic Books
3. Technical Specifications:
   • Static Visual Work: PNG or PDF (maximum 25MB).
   • All visual documentation must be well-lit and clear.
   • All required materials are listed in this submission requirement.
   • Stories must be designed to fit within a three-page format.
   • Final artwork must be submitted in a high-resolution digital format.
   • Specific technical guidelines will be provided to selected artists.
4. AI Usage Guidelines:
   • AI tools may be used to assist in the creative process, but cannot be the sole creator. Works that are 100% AI-generated will not be accepted.
   • All AI assistance must be explicitly disclosed in the artist statement.
   • This disclosure should include which elements were created with AI assistance, which AI tools were used, and how AI was incorporated.
   • Failure to disclose AI usage will result in disqualification.
5. Fan Art:
   • We welcome creative interpretations of existing works that "reimagine" the source material within the "Heritage" theme.
   • You may put a "Heritage" spin on familiar characters or stories, challenge common tropes, or create new stories inspired by heritage-themed media.
   • Please note your inspirations in your artist statement and ensure your work adds new creative elements.

Awards and Prizes

Twenty five (25) Finalists: Monetary reward for each of the 25 selected stories.

Additional Benefits:

• Feature and Citizen visa to Imagi-Nation
• Each participant will receive a Trashion Hoodie
• Selected work will be exhibited at Digiart Fest and global Comic conventions

Judging Criteria

Panel Composition

• Five judges representing diverse geographic regions
• Expertise in art, communications, and Indigenous knowledge

Intellectual Property Rights

• Artists retain IP rights
• Stride administrators and Aime/Imagi-Nation may reproduce/display artwork with credit
• Artist name will always accompany artwork usage
• Signed agreement required upon submission(applicable to the selected selected artists and designers.)

Submission Process

Submit all materials using this link

Important Notes:

• All entries will be compiled and reviewed after the submission deadline
• Selected artists will receive further technical guidelines for final artwork submission
• Ensure that all contact information is accurate
• For additional information or questions, contact: info@smstudio.ug

By adhering to these guidelines, you will provide us with a clear understanding of your artistic vision and technical capabilities. We look forward to receiving your submissions!