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Call for Artists

Project Brief and Artists Application for “Heart's Deception”

We believe art is a cornerstone of the TTRPG experience, working with the narrative and layout to help to elevate adventures from fun dungeon crawls into genuine works of art. Art has the power to create immersive worlds, evoke deep emotions, and leave lasting impressions. We believe that evocative and compelling illustrations are essential to bringing our stories to life and elevating them to the level of true art. We are seeking passionate and visionary artists who aspire to create something extraordinary, helping us turn “Heart's Deception”, and all our adventures, into a work that captivates and inspires.

Project Overview

“Heart's Deception” is an adventure deeply rooted in the arts of subterfuge and revelation. Designed to engross players in a rich narrative that intricately blends investigation with robust action sequences, this adventure is set in the wintry seascape of Bracken Bay. As adventurers peel away the layers of a maritime mystery steeped in betrayal and the supernatural, they must employ stealth, wit, and strategic combat. Ultimately, the quest probes the moral complexities of justice and redemption, providing players with a profound opportunity to shape the fate of Bracken Bay and its haunted inhabitants through their choices and cunning.

Purpose of the Brief

The purpose of this brief is to guide artists in creating illustrations that capture the essence of “Heart's Deception.” The artwork should enhance the storytelling experience by bringing to life the characters, creatures, settings, and pivotal scenes of the adventure. Through detailed visual representations, we aim to immerse players in the eerie, suspenseful, and morally complex world of Bracken Bay.

Next Steps

Artists who are shortlisted will be provided with contact information and invited to discuss the project in detail. This will include a call to answer any questions and to ensure alignment on the vision and expectations for the illustrations.

We look forward to reviewing your proposals and seeing how your unique artistic style can bring "Heart's Deception" to life.

Project Details

“Heart's Deception” is an adventure set in the atmospheric, wintry seascape of Bracken Bay, designed for Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition. This adventure immerses players in a narrative-rich environment that blends investigation, stealth, and strategic combat. Players will unravel a maritime mystery involving betrayal and the supernatural, with a focus on the moral complexities of justice and redemption. The story involves key characters like Maris Seawave and the ghostly vessel, the Dawn Star, providing a backdrop for rich role-playing opportunities and thrilling encounters.

Objectives and Goals

  • Enhance Storytelling: Create illustrations that bring the characters, settings, and pivotal scenes of “Heart's Deception” to life, enhancing the narrative experience for players.

  • Immersive Atmosphere: Develop artwork that captures the eerie, suspenseful, and morally complex world of Bracken Bay, emphasizing the themes of betrayal, justice, and the supernatural.

  • Visual Continuity: Ensure that all illustrations maintain a cohesive visual style that aligns with the dark fantasy and horror elements of the adventure.

  • Player Engagement: Use artwork to engage players more deeply, helping them visualize the world and become more invested in the story and its characters.

Target Audience

  • Dungeon Masters: Game masters looking for immersive and visually captivating adventures to run for their groups.

  • TTRPG Players: Enthusiasts of tabletop role-playing games.

  • Fantasy and Horror Fans: Individuals who appreciate dark fantasy, horror themes, and intricate storytelling.

  • Art Aficionados: Those who appreciate evocative and creative artwork that enhances their gaming experience.

  • Collectors: Collectors of TTRPG adventures and memorabilia, who seek high-quality and visually stunning additions to their collections.

Requirements

  • Total Illustrations: Approximately 15-20 illustrations.

  • Types of Illustrations:

    • Character Portraits: Detailed depictions of key characters like Maris Seawave and other significant NPCs.

    • Creature Designs: Visual representations of new creatures and supernatural entities encountered during the adventure.

    • Scene Depictions: Key scenes that capture pivotal moments, such as the ghostly apparition of the Dawn Star or dramatic confrontations.

    • Environmental Illustrations: Atmospheric illustrations of important locations like the Silvered Anchor Inn and the haunted shores of Bracken Bay.

    • Item Illustrations: Detailed illustrations of significant items and loot relevant to the adventure.

 

Style and Tone

  • Art Style: Dark fantasy with elements of horror and supernatural intrigue. The style should evoke a sense of mystery, tension, and eerie beauty.

  • Color Palette: Muted, atmospheric colors with highlights for magical and supernatural effects.

  • Visual Consistency: All illustrations should maintain a cohesive visual style, emphasizing the dark, mysterious, and suspenseful atmosphere of the adventure.

Specific Themes

  • Betrayal and Justice: Visuals should reflect the underlying themes of betrayal, moral complexity, and the pursuit of justice.

  • Supernatural Elements: Illustrations should capture the eerie and otherworldly aspects of the adventure, emphasizing ghostly apparitions and supernatural phenomena.

  • Maritime Mystery: Art should convey the maritime setting and the haunting legacy of the Dawn Star, with an emphasis on nautical elements.

Submission Guidelines

Please complete the following Call for Artists form. We are excited to learn how your unique artistic vision can bring “Heart's Deception” to life. Additional project and contractual details, including technical specifications, timeline, and contractual information, will be discussed with the shortlisted group of artists. Thank you for considering this opportunity, and we look forward to your submissions!

  • Portfolio: Include examples of character designs, environment art, and any relevant pieces that showcase your ability to convey emotion and atmosphere.

  • Cover Letter: Share why you’re interested in this project and how you can contribute to the visual storytelling of "Heart's Deception".

  • Rates: Provide information on your rates detailing your pricing.

Call for Artists

Thanks for applying!

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