1. Content Requirements

To ensure your submission fits our theme, please follow these specific creative constraints:

A. The "Kid-Animal" Core

• Characters: All submissions must feature anthropomorphic or sentient animal characters designed with a "kid-friendly" aesthetic. Think soft edges, expressive eyes, and playful designs.

• Inspiration: We highly encourage fan-works based on properties like Smiling Critters, Care Bears, or Animal Crossing, but they must be transformed through a fantasy lens.

B. The Fantasy Twist

• Setting & Role: Your characters shouldn't just be standing there—they should be part of a fantasy world. Give DogDay a paladin’s armor, turn CatNap into a shadowy sorcerer, or design an original rabbit rogue!

• Magic & Myth: We love seeing glowing runes, enchanted staves, mythical mounts, and elemental powers.

C. Specific Restrictions

• No "Grimdark": While fantasy can have conflict, we maintain a "Kid-Animal" rating. Avoid excessive gore, horror, or adult themes.

• Originality in Fan-Work: If submitting Smiling Critters fan-art, try to bring a unique stylistic or narrative perspective. Don't just trace show assets; reimagine them!

2. Technical Specifications

• Visual Art:

  • Formats: .PNG or .JPG

  • Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI (for print quality)

  • Size: A4 or Square (minimum 2000px on the shortest side)

• Written Stories/Lore:

  • Length: 500 – 2,500 words.

  • Format: .PDF or .DOCX

• Animation/Video:

  • Length: Under 60 seconds.

  • Format: .MP4 (H.264)
    
     

  • 3. How to Submit

  • Please send your finalized work to: julianestes@oxfordprep.org

  • 
    Subject Line Format: SUBMISSION: [Title of Work] - [Your Name/Alias] - [Category: Art/Writing/Video]

  • Include in the Body:

  • Your preferred name/social media handle for credits.

  • A brief 2-3 sentence description of the character's fantasy role.

  • Confirmation that you have read the guidelines.

  • 
    FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

  • Q: Can I submit OC (Original Characters) that aren't based on existing shows?
    A: Yes! As long as they fit the "Kid-Animal" aesthetic and "Fantasy" genre, we would love to see your original world-building.

  • Q: Is "Smiling Critters" content allowed if it has horror elements?
    A: We prefer to lean into the "Enchanted/Fantasy" side rather than the "Analog Horror" side. If you want to include spooky elements, keep them within the realm of "spooky fantasy" (like a haunted castle) rather than graphic horror.

  • Q: Can I submit a collaboration?
    A: Absolutely. Please list all creators in the submission email so everyone gets proper credit.

  • Q: Is there a deadline?
    A: We accept submissions on a rolling basis, but entries for our "Quarterly Quest" showcase must be in by the last day of each month.

  • Q: Does it have to be digital art?
    A: Not at all! High-quality scans of traditional paintings, clay models, or plushies are all welcome as long as they meet the resolution requirements!