Artists
How do artists participate?
Artists create the works for the first half of the event. They create new, unposted works of art to inspire the authors. After their first three new, unposted works, they can choose to offer more new works or some old goodies.
How many works can an artist offer to the event?
New artists are allowed to submit up to 6 pieces of art or collections (more on this later). The first three need to be new, the next three can be new or they can be older pieces. A returning artist who submitted during a previous year is allowed to submit up to 9 pieces (again, the first three are new pieces of art, and up to six additional either new or older pieces).
What ratings are allowed?
It's your art. You decide that. Art which is deemed NSFW (not safe for work) will be in a separate nsfw presentation document. NSFW does not necessarily mean only mature or explicit content--we know that some participants like to scroll through the gallery while at work, and we don't want anyone losing their job or having special meetings with HR to explain why they were looking at images of Elrond covered in blood (not his own; he is the goodest boy) or Aredhel's bare chest, each of which might possibly be rated below mature depending on one's country, culture, and personal opinions. We use the metric of 'if someone worked in a place where a toddler might see the screen, what would be not appropriate to have to explain?' and go from there.
What types are art are allowed?
Whatever you say is art is art.
Can I submit an unfinished piece?
Sure. Have you seen some of the works by the masters? It's like, a head and a hand, and someone pays a million bucks for it. We're not judging quality, ability, or anything else. However, keep in mind, the more polished your art, the more likely it will inspire an author.
Can I submit something I posted publicly somewhere else before the event?
You can, but only AFTER offering three new pieces.
For ALL Artists: Pieces 1 through 3 must be NEW.
For New Artists, pieces 4-6 can be New or Old
For Returning Artists, pieces 4-9 can be New or Old.
Beginning August 5, 2024, you can start (and are encouraged to!) post your new art in the places of your choosing -- then you don't have to wait so long to let the public see your beautiful creations!
Can I submit something I posted secretly somewhere else?
It depends. If you're in a Discord chat with three friends and you showed them, it's the equivalent of letting some friends sneak a peek at your sketchbook on the bus. If you're in a Discord chat that's private, but has 150 people in it, unless all 150 of the people there are your really good friends you'll have a harder time convincing the mod team that your art wasn't posted somewhere at least semi-public in advance--but these pieces would work for arts 4 and above!
Can I submit something I worked on before the sign-up period, but have not posted publicly?
Yes. It just has to adhere to the above. In the case of something where, say, a sketch was shared publicly, a significant amount of change needs to occur for it to be considered something different than whatever you shared. You probably know by looking at your work what this means, but here's an example. You publicly post a sketch of Gandalf without his hat. If you just drop a hat on his head and call it good, that's not a significant difference. But if you drop a hat on his head, all color, put a fancy quote underneath, and add Bilbo playing hopscotch with Tom Bombadil in the background while the Girbbit and Galadriel have a tea party with the three bears, while we may question your composition choices (jk, that won't happen, you do you), that is a significant enough difference that it can be submitted.
What if I miss the art sign-up deadline?
Artist sign-ups end on June 30th. If you forgot to sign up and it's after June 30th but before July 13th, contact us. We understand things happen. If it can be managed, we'll absolutely try to fit you in for at least one or two slots.
What if I miss the art submission deadline?
We have a hard stop on July 13th for the submissions. (That's July 13th in your part of the world. If you have technical difficulties on that day, contact us ASAP about it.) This is to make sure everything is ready to go for the next half. There are plans to do this yearly; you can either save it for next year, or just happily post your item independently.
I don't want (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.) in any written works created for my art.
PLEASE make sure you note these in your DNWs (Do Not Wants). You are responsible for listing common items that might come up, as well as uncommon specifics which will cause you to have a bad time if someone writes about them. Example: Let's say you hate turtles and reading about them causes you emotional distress. Don't assume writers know this. Make sure you put that into your DNWs.
I really, really want (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.) to be included in works created for my art.
Make sure you note these in your MHs (Must Haves) and Requests. Must Haves are items you do not want left out of the written works. Requests are things you would like to see, but if they are not there, it is not going to cause you emotional distress that they are not in the story. As an example, let's say your artwork features Maedhros and Fingon and baby Ereinion, and your headcanon is that Fingon is Ereinion's father.* You would like there to be an established relationship between Maedhros and Fingon, but if they're just cousins who are besties, that's fine, but you will fight anyone who says Ereinion isn't Fingon's son. Your MH would be 'Ereinion is Fingon's son'; your Request would be 'Established relationship between Maedhros and Fingon'.
Someone I don't like wrote for my artwork.
Because this event does not require artists and authors to interact, we are not going to police who is inspired by whom. By participating, you acknowledge that you might inspire someone you don't like. This isn't an elementary school playground, and we're not chasing anyone out of the sandbox. Instead of focusing on differences, consider your similarities -- namely, that there is something both of you enjoy (same character, pairing, location, etc.) Because artists ARE revealed in advance, we didn't have any issues with this in the past, and we hope to not have any issues with it now or in the future!
Is it guaranteed that every piece of art will inspire written work(s)?
No. We cannot guarantee that. However, we will do our best to have everything receive at least one written piece. Since this event started, we did manage to have something written for every art--we've got these mods who are like, pretty awesome writing on deadlines, and then we've got this participant who is fierce when it comes to writing even without meaning to be ;) so they will do their best to make sure everything gets homed! (2024 update: We have recruited the fierce participant to the mod team. Huzzah!)
Can I remove my work from the gallery?
No. Once you submit your work to the event, it is part of the event. Consider this mindfully before you submit your work.
Can I update my work in the gallery?
Works can be updated up to the end date for art submissions. You can also post further updated versions when you do your public posting.
Can I create more art during the remainder of the event.
Yes. If you are interested in creating more art related to one or more of the pieces, please mention this in your notes for that work! Your contact information will be included on the slide, so that authors who claim your work can get in touch with you if they choose.
Can I have interactions with the authors who are writing on my work?
Possibly. You can specify in your comments that you would be interested in having contact with authors. It will be up to the authors to contact you.
Can I collaborate with another artist?
Yes. However, the work counts as one submission for each of you, and, you must both be participating in this event.
Can I submit multiple pieces for the same prompt?
We ask that if you have a very specific prompt (especially those involving crossovers) that you group the pieces of art into a collection. This will still only count as one submission, but it allows better possibility that we will find authors to write for the prompt. Let's say someone submitted nine different pieces that were all Silmarillion/Dallas (the TV show from the 80s) crossovers, and the general idea was to transport the House of Finwe to Texas and have the same sort of intrigue(Who Shot Finwe? season finale!). Because art is allowed to be claimed up to three times, and we try to get all of the pieces claimed thrice, it would mean 27 separate Silmarillion/Dallas drabbles. Instead, we ask you spread the love around, and combine those arts into one group (which again, will only count as one prompt, so you'll still have either 5 or 8 additional submissions you can make). On the flip side, if the request is very general -- let's say three pieces of art that all feature Bilbo/Thorin, with only some very vague information or three with very different plot ideas, that's fine, they do not need to be grouped together.
*I just want to take a moment to mention that I wrote all of that before I created the baby Ereinion with papa Fingon art, so I guess, art imitates life? Or at least it imitates these rules! -Zhie
Artists create the works for the first half of the event. They create new, unposted works of art to inspire the authors. After their first three new, unposted works, they can choose to offer more new works or some old goodies.
How many works can an artist offer to the event?
New artists are allowed to submit up to 6 pieces of art or collections (more on this later). The first three need to be new, the next three can be new or they can be older pieces. A returning artist who submitted during a previous year is allowed to submit up to 9 pieces (again, the first three are new pieces of art, and up to six additional either new or older pieces).
What ratings are allowed?
It's your art. You decide that. Art which is deemed NSFW (not safe for work) will be in a separate nsfw presentation document. NSFW does not necessarily mean only mature or explicit content--we know that some participants like to scroll through the gallery while at work, and we don't want anyone losing their job or having special meetings with HR to explain why they were looking at images of Elrond covered in blood (not his own; he is the goodest boy) or Aredhel's bare chest, each of which might possibly be rated below mature depending on one's country, culture, and personal opinions. We use the metric of 'if someone worked in a place where a toddler might see the screen, what would be not appropriate to have to explain?' and go from there.
What types are art are allowed?
Whatever you say is art is art.
Can I submit an unfinished piece?
Sure. Have you seen some of the works by the masters? It's like, a head and a hand, and someone pays a million bucks for it. We're not judging quality, ability, or anything else. However, keep in mind, the more polished your art, the more likely it will inspire an author.
Can I submit something I posted publicly somewhere else before the event?
You can, but only AFTER offering three new pieces.
For ALL Artists: Pieces 1 through 3 must be NEW.
For New Artists, pieces 4-6 can be New or Old
For Returning Artists, pieces 4-9 can be New or Old.
Beginning August 5, 2024, you can start (and are encouraged to!) post your new art in the places of your choosing -- then you don't have to wait so long to let the public see your beautiful creations!
Can I submit something I posted secretly somewhere else?
It depends. If you're in a Discord chat with three friends and you showed them, it's the equivalent of letting some friends sneak a peek at your sketchbook on the bus. If you're in a Discord chat that's private, but has 150 people in it, unless all 150 of the people there are your really good friends you'll have a harder time convincing the mod team that your art wasn't posted somewhere at least semi-public in advance--but these pieces would work for arts 4 and above!
Can I submit something I worked on before the sign-up period, but have not posted publicly?
Yes. It just has to adhere to the above. In the case of something where, say, a sketch was shared publicly, a significant amount of change needs to occur for it to be considered something different than whatever you shared. You probably know by looking at your work what this means, but here's an example. You publicly post a sketch of Gandalf without his hat. If you just drop a hat on his head and call it good, that's not a significant difference. But if you drop a hat on his head, all color, put a fancy quote underneath, and add Bilbo playing hopscotch with Tom Bombadil in the background while the Girbbit and Galadriel have a tea party with the three bears, while we may question your composition choices (jk, that won't happen, you do you), that is a significant enough difference that it can be submitted.
What if I miss the art sign-up deadline?
Artist sign-ups end on June 30th. If you forgot to sign up and it's after June 30th but before July 13th, contact us. We understand things happen. If it can be managed, we'll absolutely try to fit you in for at least one or two slots.
What if I miss the art submission deadline?
We have a hard stop on July 13th for the submissions. (That's July 13th in your part of the world. If you have technical difficulties on that day, contact us ASAP about it.) This is to make sure everything is ready to go for the next half. There are plans to do this yearly; you can either save it for next year, or just happily post your item independently.
I don't want (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.) in any written works created for my art.
PLEASE make sure you note these in your DNWs (Do Not Wants). You are responsible for listing common items that might come up, as well as uncommon specifics which will cause you to have a bad time if someone writes about them. Example: Let's say you hate turtles and reading about them causes you emotional distress. Don't assume writers know this. Make sure you put that into your DNWs.
I really, really want (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.) to be included in works created for my art.
Make sure you note these in your MHs (Must Haves) and Requests. Must Haves are items you do not want left out of the written works. Requests are things you would like to see, but if they are not there, it is not going to cause you emotional distress that they are not in the story. As an example, let's say your artwork features Maedhros and Fingon and baby Ereinion, and your headcanon is that Fingon is Ereinion's father.* You would like there to be an established relationship between Maedhros and Fingon, but if they're just cousins who are besties, that's fine, but you will fight anyone who says Ereinion isn't Fingon's son. Your MH would be 'Ereinion is Fingon's son'; your Request would be 'Established relationship between Maedhros and Fingon'.
Someone I don't like wrote for my artwork.
Because this event does not require artists and authors to interact, we are not going to police who is inspired by whom. By participating, you acknowledge that you might inspire someone you don't like. This isn't an elementary school playground, and we're not chasing anyone out of the sandbox. Instead of focusing on differences, consider your similarities -- namely, that there is something both of you enjoy (same character, pairing, location, etc.) Because artists ARE revealed in advance, we didn't have any issues with this in the past, and we hope to not have any issues with it now or in the future!
Is it guaranteed that every piece of art will inspire written work(s)?
No. We cannot guarantee that. However, we will do our best to have everything receive at least one written piece. Since this event started, we did manage to have something written for every art--we've got these mods who are like, pretty awesome writing on deadlines, and then we've got this participant who is fierce when it comes to writing even without meaning to be ;) so they will do their best to make sure everything gets homed! (2024 update: We have recruited the fierce participant to the mod team. Huzzah!)
Can I remove my work from the gallery?
No. Once you submit your work to the event, it is part of the event. Consider this mindfully before you submit your work.
Can I update my work in the gallery?
Works can be updated up to the end date for art submissions. You can also post further updated versions when you do your public posting.
Can I create more art during the remainder of the event.
Yes. If you are interested in creating more art related to one or more of the pieces, please mention this in your notes for that work! Your contact information will be included on the slide, so that authors who claim your work can get in touch with you if they choose.
Can I have interactions with the authors who are writing on my work?
Possibly. You can specify in your comments that you would be interested in having contact with authors. It will be up to the authors to contact you.
Can I collaborate with another artist?
Yes. However, the work counts as one submission for each of you, and, you must both be participating in this event.
Can I submit multiple pieces for the same prompt?
We ask that if you have a very specific prompt (especially those involving crossovers) that you group the pieces of art into a collection. This will still only count as one submission, but it allows better possibility that we will find authors to write for the prompt. Let's say someone submitted nine different pieces that were all Silmarillion/Dallas (the TV show from the 80s) crossovers, and the general idea was to transport the House of Finwe to Texas and have the same sort of intrigue(Who Shot Finwe? season finale!). Because art is allowed to be claimed up to three times, and we try to get all of the pieces claimed thrice, it would mean 27 separate Silmarillion/Dallas drabbles. Instead, we ask you spread the love around, and combine those arts into one group (which again, will only count as one prompt, so you'll still have either 5 or 8 additional submissions you can make). On the flip side, if the request is very general -- let's say three pieces of art that all feature Bilbo/Thorin, with only some very vague information or three with very different plot ideas, that's fine, they do not need to be grouped together.
*I just want to take a moment to mention that I wrote all of that before I created the baby Ereinion with papa Fingon art, so I guess, art imitates life? Or at least it imitates these rules! -Zhie
Authors
How do authors participate?
You write a thing, or things, you word crafter, you. You can also write a thing you that you record, as a podfic, theatrical piece, or in the form of an interpretive dance with lyrics of at least one hundred words. We're very open on your interpretation.
How many works can an author offer to the event?
There are no limits. Now, before you start plotting out your next eighty projects, you can claim up to three items at a time, and must finish all of the items you claim BEFORE you submit your next round of claims.
What ratings are allowed?
If it's a rating you can think of, it's allowed. HOWEVER--artists will have the ratings they are comfortable seeing for works that are inspired by their art. You MUST respect these rating requests. For example, if someone has taken photos of their Thorin cosplay and asks for stories to remain G or PG only, do not write a PWP (Plot? What Plot?) NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Thorin/Smaug drabble. At least, don't do it for that piece.
What types of written works are allowed?
Are there words? Are there at least 100 of them? It counts.
What are the minimum limits for a written work?
100 words. It is recognized that some items, such as particular poetry styles, might dictate less words than this. It is suggested in these cases to write multiple items on the same art prompt (for example, 5.9 haikus would equal 100 words -- but maybe go with 6 haikus if you use that method) or to pair multiple things together (a haiku with a written out dialogue exchange).
Can I submit a podfic or music?
Yes! There are many options:
What are the maximum limits for a written work?
There is no ceiling on the number of words. The purpose is to give those who write shorter works an opportunity to participate in a low-stress event, but if you are a power writer, no one is going to stop you from writing that 50,000 words novel inspired by a picture of Feanor reembodied as a Pallas's cat. (And if that doesn't exist yet, you know someone will make that happen now...)**
Can I submit an unfinished piece?
Sure. In fact, it's right in the list of what is allowed. Tolkien had Unfinished Tales -- you can, too. The only minimum is the 100 words.
Can I submit something I posted publicly somewhere else?
No. You need to be inspired by a piece of art first.
Can I submit something I previously posted secretly somewhere else?
Please see the previously posted answer to the previous question. Works created should be inspired by the art in the gallery.
Can I submit something I worked on before the sign-up period, but have not posted publicly?
You're tenacious, aren't you? No. (But if you need suggestions on career path, might I suggest lawyer?)
Can I have interactions with the artists who inspired me?
Possibly. If they would like to have interactions, that information will be in their notes. It is the author's responsibility to do the contacting.
What if I miss the author sign-up deadline?
In order to facilitate the event, there is a firm deadline for signing up. As soon as you think you might be interested, it is suggested you sign up. There is no penalty if you later decide that nothing inspires you, or you find that you suddenly do not have the time to commit. However, there are two whole months to sign up, so we hope everyone who wants to is able to do so within that time. (We have had what we call 'Second Harvest' in the past, allowing additional author sign-ups due to the size of the gallery. However, this is not guaranteed, so it is highly suggested to sign up before the deadline.)
What if I miss the story submission deadline?
Written works submitted up to the deadline to the AO3 gallery will be the ones seen when the collection goes live, and will be the stories used to calculate the accomplishments. However, if you finish something later that was inspired by one of the works, you are welcome to add it to the collection on AO3. Keep in mind: If the late work is for a piece you claimed, it will be considered a default for the next year you participate. If it is an additional work, that's just gravy. (Example: You claims art pieces 320, 400, and 670. You post a piece for each before the deadline. Then you go back and post a second piece for #400. This is not a default. Alternatively, let's say you claim those same numbers, and only post for 320 and 670 on time. You post your piece for #400 two months after the deadline. This is still considered a default.)
Do I need to sign up to participate as an author?
I don't know how else you will gain access to the presentation gallery in advance of the end of the event, unless you get someone else to sneak you the link -- which they should not, because the link is only intended for participants until the galleries open at the end of the event. So, yes, please sign up even if you think you might want to write.
What happens if I give the link to a non-participant?
We ask Grima Wormtongue to show up at your house and give you 'the special treatment'. We're not sure what that means, and you probably do not want to find out. Oh, also we don't let you participate anymore. It's pretty much the only thing, short of being a repeat jerknugget, that can get you banned forthwith from the Kingdom of Rohan, and, from this event.
I don't want to write about (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.), but the artist wants that.
Sounds like this isn't the art you're looking for. Please move along.
I'm gonna do something else anyhow.
Wow. So, Grima says he'll come give 'the special treatment' to anyone who pulls this crap, too.
Oh, and the banning thing, too. Doing this falls under the 'jerknugget' category, even if you only do it once. The wishes of the artists must be respected. There is a difference between MH (Must Haves) and Requests. If it is an MH, it is non-negotiable. If it's just a request, it would just be nice. In our next segment, we'll cover DNWs (Do Not Wants).
I really, really want to write about (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.), but the artist doesn't want that.
Also a case of art that is not going to fit what you are looking to write about. It is important to respect the DNWs (Do Not Wants) of the artists who created the pieces. Chances are, they will be your first audience member, and also, they have some specifics they would like to have respected. If there is a DNW, please do not try to sneak it in (or write about it openly). There will be many options and hopefully something else in the gallery will speak to you.
Okay, but I really, really want to write about it so I'm just going to do that.
Grima will be over within the hour. Also, enjoy your ban.
Can I remove my work from the collection after I posted it?
We can't technically stop you from doing this, but we would really highly suggest if you think you are going to end up at a point of not wanting it there, please do not post in the first place. Hopefully this doesn't happen, but really, removing things ends up making for sad readers later. Please post things you want to have live there forever. (Obviously, you might go and edit things or add to them, and that's just fine. You can also orphan stories, so they'll still be there, just anonymously, so that it's not lost for the artists who inspired you.)
Can I update my work in the collection?
Of course. That's just fine.
Can I create more works after the event is over?
Sure. You can even post them in the collection. We just won't be able to keep going back to promote new things after the deadline, and you can only earn the accomplishments for items posted by the deadline.
Can I have interactions with the artist(s) who inspired me?
Possibly. Artists can specify in their comments that they would be interested in having contact with authors. It will be up to you to contact them.
Can I collaborate with another author?
Yes, however, during the claiming portion, you will both need to have claimed the same number, or, you will need to wait until after everything is back on the board again. Which is really another motivation to get everything claimed!
**Still waiting on that Feanor as a cat piece we suggested two years ago...
You write a thing, or things, you word crafter, you. You can also write a thing you that you record, as a podfic, theatrical piece, or in the form of an interpretive dance with lyrics of at least one hundred words. We're very open on your interpretation.
How many works can an author offer to the event?
There are no limits. Now, before you start plotting out your next eighty projects, you can claim up to three items at a time, and must finish all of the items you claim BEFORE you submit your next round of claims.
What ratings are allowed?
If it's a rating you can think of, it's allowed. HOWEVER--artists will have the ratings they are comfortable seeing for works that are inspired by their art. You MUST respect these rating requests. For example, if someone has taken photos of their Thorin cosplay and asks for stories to remain G or PG only, do not write a PWP (Plot? What Plot?) NSFW (Not Safe For Work) Thorin/Smaug drabble. At least, don't do it for that piece.
What types of written works are allowed?
Are there words? Are there at least 100 of them? It counts.
What are the minimum limits for a written work?
100 words. It is recognized that some items, such as particular poetry styles, might dictate less words than this. It is suggested in these cases to write multiple items on the same art prompt (for example, 5.9 haikus would equal 100 words -- but maybe go with 6 haikus if you use that method) or to pair multiple things together (a haiku with a written out dialogue exchange).
Can I submit a podfic or music?
Yes! There are many options:
- If you want to podfic something, and the art has been claimed by multiple people, talk to one of them, and see if they agree to let you podfic their story.
- Rather than write a fic, you sit down, with your mic and recording device and just tell the story.
- You write a fic, and then you record it.
- You write a fic, and someone else records it (with your permission).
- You record video of either telling the story or reading the story you wrote, or someone else wrote (with their permission).
- You are inspired to write a piece of music (with or without lyrics, or just the lyrics) for a piece of art.
- You do a little filking (using an already existent piece of music, but change the lyrics) for a piece of art that inspires you.
- For recorded works, such as podfics or music, the minimum is a piece that is at least 90 seconds in length.
What are the maximum limits for a written work?
There is no ceiling on the number of words. The purpose is to give those who write shorter works an opportunity to participate in a low-stress event, but if you are a power writer, no one is going to stop you from writing that 50,000 words novel inspired by a picture of Feanor reembodied as a Pallas's cat. (And if that doesn't exist yet, you know someone will make that happen now...)**
Can I submit an unfinished piece?
Sure. In fact, it's right in the list of what is allowed. Tolkien had Unfinished Tales -- you can, too. The only minimum is the 100 words.
Can I submit something I posted publicly somewhere else?
No. You need to be inspired by a piece of art first.
Can I submit something I previously posted secretly somewhere else?
Please see the previously posted answer to the previous question. Works created should be inspired by the art in the gallery.
Can I submit something I worked on before the sign-up period, but have not posted publicly?
You're tenacious, aren't you? No. (But if you need suggestions on career path, might I suggest lawyer?)
Can I have interactions with the artists who inspired me?
Possibly. If they would like to have interactions, that information will be in their notes. It is the author's responsibility to do the contacting.
What if I miss the author sign-up deadline?
In order to facilitate the event, there is a firm deadline for signing up. As soon as you think you might be interested, it is suggested you sign up. There is no penalty if you later decide that nothing inspires you, or you find that you suddenly do not have the time to commit. However, there are two whole months to sign up, so we hope everyone who wants to is able to do so within that time. (We have had what we call 'Second Harvest' in the past, allowing additional author sign-ups due to the size of the gallery. However, this is not guaranteed, so it is highly suggested to sign up before the deadline.)
What if I miss the story submission deadline?
Written works submitted up to the deadline to the AO3 gallery will be the ones seen when the collection goes live, and will be the stories used to calculate the accomplishments. However, if you finish something later that was inspired by one of the works, you are welcome to add it to the collection on AO3. Keep in mind: If the late work is for a piece you claimed, it will be considered a default for the next year you participate. If it is an additional work, that's just gravy. (Example: You claims art pieces 320, 400, and 670. You post a piece for each before the deadline. Then you go back and post a second piece for #400. This is not a default. Alternatively, let's say you claim those same numbers, and only post for 320 and 670 on time. You post your piece for #400 two months after the deadline. This is still considered a default.)
Do I need to sign up to participate as an author?
I don't know how else you will gain access to the presentation gallery in advance of the end of the event, unless you get someone else to sneak you the link -- which they should not, because the link is only intended for participants until the galleries open at the end of the event. So, yes, please sign up even if you think you might want to write.
What happens if I give the link to a non-participant?
We ask Grima Wormtongue to show up at your house and give you 'the special treatment'. We're not sure what that means, and you probably do not want to find out. Oh, also we don't let you participate anymore. It's pretty much the only thing, short of being a repeat jerknugget, that can get you banned forthwith from the Kingdom of Rohan, and, from this event.
I don't want to write about (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.), but the artist wants that.
Sounds like this isn't the art you're looking for. Please move along.
I'm gonna do something else anyhow.
Wow. So, Grima says he'll come give 'the special treatment' to anyone who pulls this crap, too.
Oh, and the banning thing, too. Doing this falls under the 'jerknugget' category, even if you only do it once. The wishes of the artists must be respected. There is a difference between MH (Must Haves) and Requests. If it is an MH, it is non-negotiable. If it's just a request, it would just be nice. In our next segment, we'll cover DNWs (Do Not Wants).
I really, really want to write about (insert character/pairing/theme/item/etc.), but the artist doesn't want that.
Also a case of art that is not going to fit what you are looking to write about. It is important to respect the DNWs (Do Not Wants) of the artists who created the pieces. Chances are, they will be your first audience member, and also, they have some specifics they would like to have respected. If there is a DNW, please do not try to sneak it in (or write about it openly). There will be many options and hopefully something else in the gallery will speak to you.
Okay, but I really, really want to write about it so I'm just going to do that.
Grima will be over within the hour. Also, enjoy your ban.
Can I remove my work from the collection after I posted it?
We can't technically stop you from doing this, but we would really highly suggest if you think you are going to end up at a point of not wanting it there, please do not post in the first place. Hopefully this doesn't happen, but really, removing things ends up making for sad readers later. Please post things you want to have live there forever. (Obviously, you might go and edit things or add to them, and that's just fine. You can also orphan stories, so they'll still be there, just anonymously, so that it's not lost for the artists who inspired you.)
Can I update my work in the collection?
Of course. That's just fine.
Can I create more works after the event is over?
Sure. You can even post them in the collection. We just won't be able to keep going back to promote new things after the deadline, and you can only earn the accomplishments for items posted by the deadline.
Can I have interactions with the artist(s) who inspired me?
Possibly. Artists can specify in their comments that they would be interested in having contact with authors. It will be up to you to contact them.
Can I collaborate with another author?
Yes, however, during the claiming portion, you will both need to have claimed the same number, or, you will need to wait until after everything is back on the board again. Which is really another motivation to get everything claimed!
**Still waiting on that Feanor as a cat piece we suggested two years ago...
Betas
How do Betas participate?
They help clean up the grammar, spelling, and other oopsiedoodles of the authors.
How do I become a Beta?
Join the Discord, and watch for requests in the 'Looking for Beta Reader' channel. No sign-up necessary.
They help clean up the grammar, spelling, and other oopsiedoodles of the authors.
How do I become a Beta?
Join the Discord, and watch for requests in the 'Looking for Beta Reader' channel. No sign-up necessary.
Cheer Squad
How do Cheer Squad members participate?
They say nice things and are supportive on our Discord server or in other places.
How do I become a Cheer Squad member?
Join the Discord and say nice things. You can also say nice things about the participants and event at places like Tumblr, Twitter, or any number of other places of your choice. No sign-up necessary.
They say nice things and are supportive on our Discord server or in other places.
How do I become a Cheer Squad member?
Join the Discord and say nice things. You can also say nice things about the participants and event at places like Tumblr, Twitter, or any number of other places of your choice. No sign-up necessary.
Staff
How do Staff members participate?
It's like herding cats. Also, we have good chat times.
Oh! For the event... we take care of the website, the promotion, organization of things, make icons... We have the fun of planning the party, but then we also have to occasionally kick someone out because they picked up the cake and threw it on the ground.
How do I become a Staff member?
Send a message to scribblesdrabbles (at) gmail . com and let us know what you would like to help with! Please use the subject "Staff Inquiry". While we don't currently have open positions, it's always possible there will be some in the future, or, you might have an idea we didn't think of yet.
It's like herding cats. Also, we have good chat times.
Oh! For the event... we take care of the website, the promotion, organization of things, make icons... We have the fun of planning the party, but then we also have to occasionally kick someone out because they picked up the cake and threw it on the ground.
How do I become a Staff member?
Send a message to scribblesdrabbles (at) gmail . com and let us know what you would like to help with! Please use the subject "Staff Inquiry". While we don't currently have open positions, it's always possible there will be some in the future, or, you might have an idea we didn't think of yet.
General Questions about Allowable Content
DO YOU ALLOW...
Crossovers?
Yes, as long as there is some element of a Tolkien work somewhere that constitutes as more than just a cameo appearance.
Acceptable: Gandalf is the new headmaster at Hogwarts. Pipeweed for everyone! Hijinks ensue.
Not Acceptable: Ron Weasley carries around a copy of The Silmarillion for his History of Elves class, but no additional interaction ever occurs.
Please note: When submitting art, if you have multiple pieces which are basically the same prompt, they should be submitted as a collection. Crossovers are by far the most difficult pieces to find authors for, and if someone submits, say, all nine pieces as the same prompt, that's 27 written pieces to try to get them claimed all three times. Many times, crossovers require the author to do substantial research on a book, movie, television series, etc., which they are not familiar with. Please be mindful of this and do not expect that the authors will know the other fandom--if there are DNWs or MHs related to that fandom, or important information, please include that for your submission.
NSFW?
Yes.
RPF?
Yes, but highly suggest if you are the author that you ask the artist if it's okay with them. If the artist did it, well, you'll kind of see that in advance if you are the author...
Self-insert or Reader-as-character?
Yes; see above.
Art and stories based on the books?
Yes.
Art and stories based on adaptations?
Yes. But we will cringe a little if you choose the 1966 animated Hobbit (not to be confused with the Rankin & Bass animated Hobbit, which is really quite nicely done.) We don't judge much, but we do judge that.
Art and stories based on licensed works (Lord of the Rings Online, for example)?
Yes.
Art and stories based on that Amazon show that's coming out?
(Technically it's already out now, but I'm proud of this answer, so I'm leaving it. Short answer is yes. -Zhie) Hey, Finrod had foresight, maybe you do, too...it's going to overlap a little, so, sure, go for it. I'm sure there are several people who want fan art and stories about an Elf named Adar who says 'Call me Daddy'.
Art and stories based on Tolkien's works that are not part of the Legendarium?
Yes. Girabbit approved.
Art and stories based on The Mewlips.
You've been to Oxonmoot, haven't you? Also yes.
Art and stories based on a Tolkien-themed tattoo you once saw?
'Here's the deal. If you can fit the word 'Tolkien' into your question, it's probably great! If you have questions, please ask!
Crossovers?
Yes, as long as there is some element of a Tolkien work somewhere that constitutes as more than just a cameo appearance.
Acceptable: Gandalf is the new headmaster at Hogwarts. Pipeweed for everyone! Hijinks ensue.
Not Acceptable: Ron Weasley carries around a copy of The Silmarillion for his History of Elves class, but no additional interaction ever occurs.
Please note: When submitting art, if you have multiple pieces which are basically the same prompt, they should be submitted as a collection. Crossovers are by far the most difficult pieces to find authors for, and if someone submits, say, all nine pieces as the same prompt, that's 27 written pieces to try to get them claimed all three times. Many times, crossovers require the author to do substantial research on a book, movie, television series, etc., which they are not familiar with. Please be mindful of this and do not expect that the authors will know the other fandom--if there are DNWs or MHs related to that fandom, or important information, please include that for your submission.
NSFW?
Yes.
RPF?
Yes, but highly suggest if you are the author that you ask the artist if it's okay with them. If the artist did it, well, you'll kind of see that in advance if you are the author...
Self-insert or Reader-as-character?
Yes; see above.
Art and stories based on the books?
Yes.
Art and stories based on adaptations?
Yes. But we will cringe a little if you choose the 1966 animated Hobbit (not to be confused with the Rankin & Bass animated Hobbit, which is really quite nicely done.) We don't judge much, but we do judge that.
Art and stories based on licensed works (Lord of the Rings Online, for example)?
Yes.
Art and stories based on that Amazon show that's coming out?
(Technically it's already out now, but I'm proud of this answer, so I'm leaving it. Short answer is yes. -Zhie) Hey, Finrod had foresight, maybe you do, too...it's going to overlap a little, so, sure, go for it. I'm sure there are several people who want fan art and stories about an Elf named Adar who says 'Call me Daddy'.
Art and stories based on Tolkien's works that are not part of the Legendarium?
Yes. Girabbit approved.
Art and stories based on The Mewlips.
You've been to Oxonmoot, haven't you? Also yes.
Art and stories based on a Tolkien-themed tattoo you once saw?
'Here's the deal. If you can fit the word 'Tolkien' into your question, it's probably great! If you have questions, please ask!