• What will be the calendar size?

It will be 6.0x4.25 inches and coil bound, an easel style meant to fit on a desk. The actual illustration area will be slightly smaller than product dimensions to allow room for calendar text (numerical dates only, no holidays) and credit.

• Where will the proceeds go?

After overhead (manufacturing, shipping), all profits will be donated to a charity that will be decided upon by the participating artists.

• How many artists will be selected?

24, one for each calendar page + someone will be approached for a cover.

• Will there be invited artists?

We will send invitations to some artists we would like to see on board. They will have to go through the application process like anybody else.

• Will artists receive copies of the zine?

Of course! Shipping is on us.

• What kind of illustration are you looking for?

Anything to celebrate the changing seasons! The importance of seasonality in Japan's culture traces way back into its Shinto and farming roots.

The 24 solar terms are agricultural in origin, but Touken Ranbu being what it is, calendar entries can encompass anything that touches on what is in season (including but not limited to food, flowers, activities) for a given solar term.

• Who do I draw?

Any permutation of swords (historical groups, families, swords who have nothing to do with one another but you think they should be friends, etc) or even a single sword on their own is valid. Follow your heart!

• Are ships allowed?

Any kind of pairing is welcome, however, we ask that you keep the content PG/PG-13. Please don’t draw anything really spicy.

• What happens if I do get chosen?

If you are chosen, we will be in contact via email with further instructions including a template file. People who are not selected will still receive an email with our apologies.

• Is there an embargo period on my work?

Yes. If you are chosen to be included in the calendar, we ask that, with the exception of teasers, you do not post your work online until after the calendars are shipped. Pre-orders will be pushed to help raise as much money as possible for donation, so some exclusivity is needed to make this happen. You will receive an email indicating when the embargo is over, after which you regain rights to do with your piece what you please.

• Will there be extras?

We would love to have some artists help make art for merch (bookmarks, stickers, etc). The organizers will arrange for their printing, but if you're interested in creating, let us know.

• Will artists get paid?

Unfortunately, no, as this is a charity project.

• Do the organizers get paid?

No, for the reasons above. That said, a breakdown of revenue and costs/expenses, with associated receipts will be available for participating artists to view in the interest of transparency.

For any additional question, feel free to contact us at toukensekki@gmail.com or on our twitter (@toukensekki)