Kazuki Minami
| First Name: | Kazuki |
| Last Name: | Minami |
| Main Country: |  Japan |
| Main Language: | Japanese |
Biography
Kazuki Minami was awarded the grand prize for the Pokémon TCG Illustration Contest 2024 for their depiction of the adorable Pikachu unwinding with a yawn and stretch on a bright sunny day.
Artist’s comment:
I'm truly honored to receive this prize. As this was my first time taking part in this contest, I wasn't sure what to draw and how to draw it. That's when my dog came into my sight being cute—I was inspired to draw Pikachu in such a way that reminds me of my dog. So the prize belongs to my dog as much as it does to me, and we're both extremely happy and honored. Thank you.
Judge's Comments:
It's a situation that seems to capture a moment that you witness by chance, and the heartwarming, goofy, exquisite cuteness of the yawning Pikachu is very attractive. Of course, the background that is depicted in detail is wonderful, but even while plants and other objects are realistically drawn, the expression of light and touch make it feel as if Pikachu—the main character—is firmly present in the space.
I think it was difficult to draw the Pikachu that everyone knows for this contest's theme. I was impressed by the natural and unadorned depiction of Pikachu’s daily life as a living creature. The entire illustration is organized in Pikachu’s yellow tones, giving you an intuitive sense of the world in which Pikachu is the main character. The dazzle of being enveloped in the warm sun is very attractive.
This illustration beautifully captures Pikachu in a tender moment during warm morning light. It’s challenging to make simple scenes like a yawn engaging, but the artist has succeeded in creating a relatable and evocative setting. Placing Pikachu at the center of the frame emphasizes the charm of the moment, while the subtle stylization adds originality without straying from authenticity. The background is thoughtfully rendered, contributing warmth, emotion, and stylized realism to the piece. Overall, the illustration conveys a universal sense of tenderness that resonates with viewers.
Grand Prize - Kazuki Minami
Artist’s comment:
I'm truly honored to receive this prize. As this was my first time taking part in this contest, I wasn't sure what to draw and how to draw it. That's when my dog came into my sight being cute—I was inspired to draw Pikachu in such a way that reminds me of my dog. So the prize belongs to my dog as much as it does to me, and we're both extremely happy and honored. Thank you.
Judge's Comments:
It's a situation that seems to capture a moment that you witness by chance, and the heartwarming, goofy, exquisite cuteness of the yawning Pikachu is very attractive. Of course, the background that is depicted in detail is wonderful, but even while plants and other objects are realistically drawn, the expression of light and touch make it feel as if Pikachu—the main character—is firmly present in the space.
I think it was difficult to draw the Pikachu that everyone knows for this contest's theme. I was impressed by the natural and unadorned depiction of Pikachu’s daily life as a living creature. The entire illustration is organized in Pikachu’s yellow tones, giving you an intuitive sense of the world in which Pikachu is the main character. The dazzle of being enveloped in the warm sun is very attractive.
This illustration beautifully captures Pikachu in a tender moment during warm morning light. It’s challenging to make simple scenes like a yawn engaging, but the artist has succeeded in creating a relatable and evocative setting. Placing Pikachu at the center of the frame emphasizes the charm of the moment, while the subtle stylization adds originality without straying from authenticity. The background is thoughtfully rendered, contributing warmth, emotion, and stylized realism to the piece. Overall, the illustration conveys a universal sense of tenderness that resonates with viewers.
TCG Cards
Pokémon Portrayed
Pikachu
ピカチュウ-
Pikachu
Pikachu
Contributions
| Role | Media | Title |
|---|---|---|
|
TCG Artist
Pikachu |
Scarlet & Violet Promos | #214: Pikachu |
