KWF SDCC Sponsored Artist Frequently Asked Questions

When is San Diego Comic-Con?  

San Diego Comic Con International is Thursday, July 25th through Sunday, July 28th, 2024.   Preview night is Wednesday, July 24th.  Selected Sponsored Artist should plan on arriving in San Diego no later than the morning of July 24th, 2024. 


Where do I apply for the SDCC sponsorship program?  

You can apply for the SDCC sponsorship program here.  


What categories of art do you want to see?

We're looking for creatives in the popular visual arts including drawing, painting, digital, photography, sculpture, filmmaking, animation, illustration, and original concept art.


Can I submit "AI Assisted" or "AI-Generative" Artwork?

For SDCC 2024, we are NOT accepting AI generative art (Midjourney, crAIyon, DALL-E, et al), though the use of digital tools (e.g., ProCreate) is acceptable.


How long do I have to apply for Sponsorship?

We will be accepting applications from September 15th, 2023 through January 15th, 2024.

All applications must be received by 11:59pm Pacific Time, January 15th, 2024. 


When will we know who has been selected for Sponsorship?  

We plan to announce our selected Sponsored Artist on February 15th, 2024.  Please join our mailing list and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads to stay informed!


Who will be judging the submissions?  

A panel of judges including KWF Board of Directors members, consulting artists, and/or industry experts.  


Who at the KWF is administering this program?

Rene Lafargue is coordinating this program, he can be reached via email at rene (@) kevinworkmanfoundation.org.


What is the criteria being used for judging submissions?  

KWF is looking for promising, up-and-coming artists or creative professionals who use technology in novel ways to  
inspire or advance the fields of popular visual arts.   


Will the KWF pay for may travel expenses to get to the convention?  

We are evaluating the costs associated with paying travel expenses and may be able to assist with some travel costs pending sufficient Foundation budget resources available in early 2024.  The sponsored artist should plan to pay their own travel expenses.  

Is there a minimum age to be considered for sponsorship?   

Yes, applicants must be 18 years of age or older.
 
Are non-US residents eligible to apply?

Yes!  However, we are unable to provide assistance with travel logistics:  any passport, visa, or regulatory applications and permits are the sole responsibility of the Sponsored Artist and traveling companion (1), if any.

Do I need to bring my own materials (banner, prints, business cards, etc.)?  

Yes.  KWF will provide exhibit space, but you will need to provide your own promotional materials, merchandise, and standard 10'x10' "trade show booth" display gear.  The ability to accept and process credit/debit card transactions is highly recommended but not required.


Where is the Kevin Workman Foundation located at SDCC?

The KWF booth is located in the Exhibitor Hall, historically booth #934.  Look for Kevin Workman Foundation in the Comic-Con Directory.  The exact booth location assigned to us by CCI each year is subject to change and not within our control.


How much space will I have?

The KWF Sponsored Artist booth is 10'x10', and you will have most or all of that space.


How many badges will I get?  

KWF will provide 2 (Two)  4-day badges. 


Will I be able to sell my work?  

Yes.


Will I be able to create art in the booth?

Yes, and live commissions or demonstrations (drawing, painting, etc.,) are encouraged.


Are there any limitations to what kind of art I can display and sell?  

Our booth is subject to the rules and regulations of the San Diego Comic Con, including the Adult Material Display Rules.
Our preference is to not display "adult" material, but understand that this is somewhat subjective.


Will I be able to leave the booth, see the convention, and network with peers?  

Yes, we encourage you to make the most of the show.   We will keep an eye on your booth, but we will not be able to sell your art/products on your behalf.  


Will the KWF staff the booth when I am not there?   

If there is a member of the KWF staff scheduled to be in the booth during the time you are away and you coordinate with them in advance, we are always happy to help.  


What are my responsibilities as a KWF Sponsored Artist if I am selected?

Generally speaking -- very few.  While not an absolute requirement, we anticipate that any artist selected will be active on social media, including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), and Threads, and we would appreciate timely reciprocity (reactions, re-posts, replies, comments, etc.)  to our promotional posts / announcements on these platforms.  We will ask that you appear in promotional photographs before, during, and/or after Comic-Con, and we may request that you participate in short-form promotional "interview"-format videos, which may appear on our website, social media channels, and/or video channels (e.g., YouTube).

Have an unanswered Question?  Please contact us.