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Fostering Community Through Collaboration with Illegal Pete’s Collaborating with Illegal Pete’s for this event is a natural fit for bringing the community together in a fun and engaging way. By featuring their locally-loved chips and salsa, we not only provide guests with a delightful culinary experience but also connect the art show to the local culture of Denver. This partnership underscores the theme of the show, blending creativity with local flavors in a way that feels personal and unique. The highlight of this collaboration will be the custom dye-cut tortilla chips shaped like my character, Serling Curious, which adds a playful and thematic element to the event. This small yet creative touch brings the art show to life in unexpected ways, making it more interactive and memorable for attendees. It’s a reflection of how art can extend beyond the canvas and become an experience. Including Illegal Pete’s logo on the flyer and offering attendees a coupon for their restaurant locations will drive traffic to a beloved community hub, further solidifying the connection between local businesses and the creative scene. This collaboration not only enhances the event itself but also supports local business and strengthens ties within the Denver community.

WeeBees: Seeds of Wonder

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WeeBees: Seeds of Wonder – The Story UnfoldsWeeBees: Seeds of Wonder gives me the opportunity to dive deeper into the narrative of the WeeBees and bring it to life for audiences interacting with the game and those attending the art show. The whimsical world I depict is not just a backdrop—it exists inside the top hat of Serling Curious, an elusive mystic known for his mysterious travels and magical abilities.Legend has it that Serling traveled to Africa in search of rare magic seeds, hoping to conjure a new spell or trick that would astonish the world. However, no one knows exactly what spell he intended to cast. In an unexpected twist, the seeds he found created something far more extraordinary—a new world. Inside his hat, the seeds sprouted as they attracted gas molecules from the atmosphere, forming life in the shape of clouds and plants. Thus, the WeeBees were born, and the whimsical world within his hat took on a life of its own, stormy skies and all.The game WeeBees: Seeds of Wonder offers a glimpse into this unique world. As players explore the vibrant landscapes and characters that inhabit Serling’s creation, they will uncover the lore, magic, and wonder behind the WeeBees. This project allows me to share not just a story, but an experience that connects players to the imaginative, cloud-filled world that’s been living inside Serling Curious’s mysterious hat.

DSDII’m working with DSDI, a local non-profit organization, to project the game onto the wall or canvas using projection mapping. This collaboration adds a dynamic and immersive element to the show, allowing attendees to engage with the world of the WeeBees in an exciting way. Supporting DSDI through this project not only enhances the event but also strengthens their role as a positive force within Denver's creative community, helping them continue to uplift local artists and innovators.

DSDI

Images for InspoI've compiled some low fidelity illustrations and some pictures of creatives I admire. I've always been amazed by how the lore of some characters can transcend mediums. Since I am aiming to achieve what so many greats before me have done, I have included some images of them to remind myself of my objective and further inform the judges of my mission.

Images for mood board

Round 2 application checklist<ul data-task-list=""><li data-task-list-item="">Ensure you are US or Canada basedIf you are selected, we will ask for proof of US or Canada residence. Be prepared to show a valid government-issued ID.</li></ul>STEP 1:<ul data-task-list=""><li data-task-list-item="">Link to your Round 1 application</li><li data-task-list-item="">Fill out PROJECT DETAILSFill out your project details in 'Details and Budget' board. If you already shared your project description in Round 1, feel free to transfer it over.</li><li data-task-list-item="">Project mockups/sketchesInclude (but not limited to) visuals like sketches, mockups, or drafts that help illustrate your idea to the judges. The clearer, the better!</li><li data-task-list-item="">Propose budgetClearly show how the funds will be used to bring your project to life. The final grant amount will be determined by the Playbook team and judges based on your project needs and merit.</li></ul>STEP 2:<ul data-task-list=""><li data-task-list-item="">Planning &amp; weekly updatesFill out your weekly major milestones and actionable goals in the 'Plan and Timeline' board</li></ul>STEP 3:<ul data-task-list=""><li data-task-list-item="">Share and submit (due Oct 18th, 2024 11:59PM EST)Navigate to the main board and click ‘Share' to enable shared link. When you’re ready, drop your link in the Dropzone <a href="https://www.playbook.com/community/drop" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. Your shared link will only be seen by the Playbook team and judging panel. All submissions for Round 2 are private and secure.</li></ul>These are just the basics! Feel free to go above and beyonce - share extra details that really showcase your vision for the judges!

📚 Imagination Fund Project BriefProject name:WeeBees: Seeds of WonderProject description:Seeds of Wonder" is a platform game featuring the WeeBees, cloud-like beings with seeds for souls, navigating a world inside the mystic Serling Curious' hat. This project will be exhibited as an interactive art installation, combining gameplay with original paintings and drawings, showcasing the characters and world-building from the game in a fine art context.Creator(s) name:Derek Simon, professionally known asTotal requested amount$10,000Budget breakdownPlease view my itemized list showing how the funds will be used to complete my project<ul><li>Game Development (GameSalad Tier + Publishing Costs) Paid Tier (for publishing to iOS and Google Play): $300 (annual subscription)<ul><li>Game Publishing Fees (Google Play, iOS): $100 (Google Play: $25, iOS: $99)</li><li>Game Assets Creation (artwork, animation, sound design - an opportunity to collaborate and compensate producers in my network): $1,500<ul><li>Total: $1,900</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>Gallery/Event Space Rental Venue rental (3 days: Fri-Sun): $1,500<ul><li>Total: $1,500</li></ul></li><li>Marketing Social Media Ads (boosted posts): $400<ul><li>Flyers (design &amp; printing): $200<ul><li>Total: $600</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>Artworks (Materials &amp; Production)<ul><li>Canvas, paper, paints, brushes, printing materials for artworks: $1,200</li><li>Dye-cut tortilla chips for Serling Curious’ head: $150</li><li>Tortilla chips from Illegal Pete’s: $150 Total: $1,500 Interactive Art Component Projector rental: $400 Collaboration with <a href="https://www.dsdi.space/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">DSDI</a> (technical setup for interactive art): $700<ul><li>Total: $1,100</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>DJ<ul><li>DJ fee for the event: $300 Total: $300 Labor Costs (My Pay + Reimbursement for Materials)</li></ul></li><li>Artist fee<ul><li>My labor &amp; time for both game dev and art creation: $2,500</li><li>Reimbursement for art supplies and game-related materials: $1,000<ul><li>Total: $3,500</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>Link to your round 1 application:<a href="https://www.playbook.com/s/sky-welkin/imagination-fund-pitch-by-sky-welkin2" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">[insert link]</a>

📆 Project plan &amp; timelineWeek 1:Milestone: Finalize concept and begin basic game and art developmentGoal: Finalize the WeeBees platform game concept and basic game mechanics.Action item: Create a rough level outline for Level 1 using placeholder art.Action item: Begin learning GameSalad platforming features like jumping and running.Goal: Begin art production for key artwork pieces.Action item: Finalize 2-3 sketches for game-inspired artworks (paper and canvas).Action item: Begin experimenting with Serling Curious-themed tortilla chip designs.Goal: Begin event planning and collaboration setup.Action item: Secure gallery/event space and confirm contract.Action item: Initiate discussions with DSDI for the interactive projection setup.Week 2:Milestone: Begin production of game assets and artwork, and prepare marketing materialsGoal: Progress basic game mechanics and level design.Action item: Build basic platform mechanics (jumping, running) in GameSalad.Action item: Create and test simple level layouts with placeholder objects.Goal: Develop key art pieces and finalize initial designs.Action item: Work on 2-3 key art pieces tied to the game world.Action item: Finalize Serling Curious tortilla chip designs.Goal: Start marketing strategy and materials. Action item: Draft a social media posting schedule for event promotion. Action item: Begin designing flyers for the event and marketing materials.Week 3:Milestone: Complete the first playable demo of the game and finalize key artwork.Goal: Build a simple playable demo of Level 1 for testing. Action item: Complete Level 1 in GameSalad, focusing on basic obstacles and seed collection mechanics.Action item: Conduct play-testing to identify bugs and make necessary adjustments. Goal: Complete and finalize key artwork for the gallery event. Action item: Finish 2-3 main artwork pieces that tie into the game’s visual themes. Action item: Finalize designs for the custom tortilla chips with <a href="https://www.illegalpetes.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Illegal Pete’s</a> a staple in the Denver communityGoal: Prepare for event logistics and marketing.Action item: Confirm the DJ booking and finalize event timeline. Action item: Continue social media promotion and flyer distribution.Week 4:Milestone: Final touches on the game demo, artwork, and final event preparationsGoal: Finalize the game demo and event setup.Action item: Polish the Level 1 demo for presentation and make final gameplay adjustments.Action item: Finalize and test interactive projection setup with <a href="https://www.dsdi.space/home-denver-immersive-interactive-arts" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">DSDI</a> (local non-profit in the creative community).Goal: Finish artwork and prepare for the event.Action item: Complete any final touch-ups on artwork for the gallery display. Action item: Organize materials (art, chips, signage) for the event setup.Goal: Ramp up final marketing efforts and ensure event readiness.Action item: Boost social media ads for the final promotional push.Action item: Confirm all logistics with the gallery, DJ, and projection setup. I imagine this will depend on numerous variables such as availability and feasibility as I have never had the opportunity to projection map a game onto a wall or canvas before so am anticipating some trial and error.Definition of Done: By the end of Week 4, the project will have a completed and functional demo of Level 1, artwork ready for the gallery event, and final logistics in place for a successful show and presentation. I'll still need to hear back for confirmation of creative spaces rental availability to iron out a three day booking for my event and exhibit, and Illegal pete's (a staple in the Denver community) for their tortillas to create dyecut tortilla chips to serve at my event with salsa.During the 30 day #imagineWithPlaybook cohort, selected artists will asynchronously create together. Artists can be based anywhere- they will just be asked to submit weekly updates on their progress in-line with their proposed plan and timeline. Artists should have clear progress to show for this period, but the project can stretch on for longer afterwards.This timeline should outline the major milestones for your project during the 30-day #Imaginewithplaybook cohort. We understand plan can change, but a detailed timeline not only keeps you on track but also shows our judges that your project is feasible! As a reminder, the criterion for judging is: 1) Originality and creativity, 2)Personal growth, 3) Community impact, and 4) Presentation and feasibility. See more in <a href="https://www.playbook.com/blog/imagination-fund/?_gl=1*1hs7nmx*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3MjU0OTAyMDcuQ2owS0NRandpdUMyQmhEU0FSSXNBTE9WZkJJdFRoLUc0am80cXNmaGgxdUZ1YzZmN3RvcjB6YjhXazRPTjhWblp0M3g2MS1oM2dKRzdjNGFBcXI2RUFMd193Y0I.*_gcl_au*OTc5MzUxMjUyLjE3MjM0ODIyODM.*_ga*NjYxNzc4OTY0LjE3MTUyODg5Mzc.*_ga_MZJK5P4N2X*MTcyNzk3NjkxNy41NTguMS4xNzI3OTgyMjg2LjU3LjAuMA.." rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">submission guidelines</a>.

Project Plan & Timeline

Feasibility of WeeBees: Seeds of Wonder ProjectThe WeeBees: Seeds of Wonder project is both ambitious and feasible, grounded in clear goals, achievable milestones, and strong partnerships. With a clear timeline in place, the project’s components—game development, art production, and the interactive event—are structured to ensure consistent progress over the course of 30 days.My experience as an artist (10 years), combined with my growing familiarity with GameSalad for game development, ensures that I can produce a polished demo of Level 1 in a manageable timeframe. To support the technical aspects of the show, I am collaborating with DSDI (received a verbal confirmation already in the event I am selected), a trusted non-profit that specializes in projection mapping, ensuring that the event’s interactive component is executed smoothly. Additionally, my partnership with Illegal Pete’s adds a fun and thematic touch to the show while further enhancing community engagement.With these collaborations and a focused approach, I am confident that the project can be brought to life effectively within the time and budget constraints. The detailed planning ensures that each stage—game design, art creation, event setup—will be executed efficiently, making the project not only realistic but an exciting milestone for me as a creator.

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If your project is selected by our judges, use this board to organize and share your final deliverablesHint, the "Kanban view" is good for organizing your files by timeline.You can also Share or Publish this board for others to keep up with your progress!

My WhyThis project is driven by my deep passion for demonstrating the often-overlooked power of illustration, particularly from cartoonists and comic artists. These artists have made significant contributions to pop culture, shaping the way we see and understand stories and characters. Yet, their work is often excluded from the fine art and contemporary art settings, where they truly deserve recognition.As a Black artist, this project and art show represent not just a personal milestone, but a moment to challenge the norms of who gets to participate in these artistic conversations. Bringing the WeeBees platform game and interactive art show to life is a celebration of illustration as a form of artistic expression, one that can stand alongside the most revered forms of fine art. This project is about more than just creating a game or an exhibit—it’s about expanding the boundaries of what art can be.To be able to pursue and complete a project like this means opening doors not just for myself, but for other independent illustrators and cartoonists, especially those from minority backgrounds. I hope this work inspires others to dream big and see that their unique artistic voices can thrive in spaces that have historically been less inclusive. This show is a testament to the transformative power of art, and I want to help others see the value in it, just as I have.

Clarifying The Potential Impact<ul><li>Elevating Illustrative Art in Fine Art Spaces: One of the primary goals of this project is to elevate illustration and cartoon-inspired art into the fine art and contemporary art world. By merging a platform game with an interactive art exhibition, this project pushes the boundaries of what fine art can include, offering a fresh perspective on the artistic value of illustration. This fusion of traditional and digital art forms not only brings these often-overlooked mediums into the spotlight but also creates a dialogue about how various artistic expressions deserve equal recognition in contemporary art spaces.</li><li>Inspiring Other Minority Artists: As a Black artist, this project has the potential to inspire other minority artists, particularly indie illustrators and cartoonists, to dream big and aim for visibility in spaces where they are often underrepresented. By successfully bringing this project to life, I hope to demonstrate that artistic diversity—whether through medium, style, or cultural background—has an important place in the art world. The ripple effect of this could be immense, encouraging artists from marginalized communities to pursue projects that may have been previously considered too niche or unconventional for mainstream recognition.</li><li>Fostering Community Connections: This project actively engages with the local community through partnerships with both businesses and non-profit organizations. Collaborating with Illegal Pete’s will introduce a fun, thematic element to the show by featuring custom Serling Curious tortilla chips, creating a unique and memorable experience for attendees while also supporting a beloved local business. This collaboration strengthens community ties by incorporating the local culture into the event and driving traffic to their restaurant through promotional offers. Additionally, working with <a href="https://www.dsdi.space/home-denver-immersive-interactive-arts" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">DSDI</a>, a non-profit organization, to project the game onto the wall or canvas during the show is another key way this project fosters community connections. By compensating DSDI for their technical services, this partnership not only supports a local non-profit but also introduces their expertise to a broader audience. This collaboration underscores the project’s commitment to community growth, supporting local organizations, and creating interactive experiences that bring art to life in innovative ways.</li><li>Long-Term Growth and Expansion: This project is not a one-time event. The game demo I’m developing will eventually be expanded into a fully playable platform game that can be published on the Google Play Store and iOS. This allows the game and the characters to live on far beyond the art show, reaching a broader audience and potentially opening doors for future collaborations, licensing, or even educational opportunities. Additionally, the interactive art concept tested in this show could serve as a foundation for future art installations, traveling exhibitions, or other digital/physical hybrid events, broadening the scope of where and how this project can evolve.</li><li>Audience Engagement and Experience: The interactive nature of the project ensures a unique and memorable experience for attendees. By involving projections, playable game demos, and fun thematic elements like the Serling Curious tortilla chips, this show invites guests to participate rather than just observe. The emotional impact comes from the sense of curiosity and wonder that the show is designed to evoke—something that aligns perfectly with the characters and world of the WeeBees. The show aims to leave guests feeling inspired, connected to the artwork, and eager to see where the project will go next.</li></ul>

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🎉 I'm excited to have made it to Round 2 of the Imagination Fund! Please find the Details &amp; Budget, Plan, Timeline, and more below. Peace!

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application

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The story and my reasons that drive it.

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This board outlines the actionable plan and timeline of my project over the course of the 30 days #imagineWithPlaybook cohort.

Step 2: Plan & Timeline

Clarifying The Impact

This board outlines all the important details of my project – everything from the concept and vision to the budget breakdown. You’ll also find sketches and mockups that show how the idea will take shape.

Step 1: Details & Budget

Community Involvement

Welcome to the story of [Project Name] !This board is where it all happens –project planning, weekly updates, and progress snapshots. Follow along to see how this project comes to life with the Playbook Imagination Fund!

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Step 1: Details & Budget

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Step 2: Plan & Timeline

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Mood Board

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Final deliverables

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Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Step 1: Details & Budget

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Step 2: Plan & Timeline

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Mood Board

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application /Final deliverables