weebees_boxes.png

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>

🎉 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

Mood Board

The story and my reasons that drive it.

Personal Vision

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

Clarifying The Impact

Build your own visual library

Derek Simon - Imagination Fund Round 2 Application

Clarifying The Impact