Shark Inspired Pirate Design Challenge

COMMUNITY CHALLENGE: SHARK INSPIRED PIRATE DEISGNS 

Challenge Brief:  This month, we're diving into uncharted waters...where your mission: design a character, creature, ship, or weapon inspired by sharks—built for a pirate-themed Roguelike world.

Think coral-crusted cannons, gill-faced captains, bio-luminescent shark-beasts patrolling sunken galleons—whatever swims into your imagination, as long as it bites.

🦈 Reminder:
Submissions must include iterations, callouts, and a final render—all on one page.

Design Directives:

• The shark theme must be unmistakable. This isn't just a name or a fin slapped on—bake it into the silhouette, attitude, and lore.

• Clear, readable shapes. Good design beats detail overload.

• Keep it playful and family-friendly. No gore or horror this time—channel your inner Pixar villain or Sea of Thieves energy.

Pro Tips: 

• Use silhouettes to test shape clarity early.

• Explore different shark species for unexpected traits—hammerhead rigging crew, whale shark tank, mako assassin, etc.

• World-build as you go: Is this a sunken Atlantis-style empire? A floating pirate confederacy? A cursed reef? Let it ripple through your design.

Submission Deadline: Please submit your entries by Friday, July 25 at 12PM EST / 9AM PST. After the deadline, the community will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite design.

Artist Inspiration: 

🐟 Featured artwork by Joey Ruberto – a ferocious blend of shark anatomy and seafaring menace. Study the movement, lighting, and natural integration of shark elements into creature design. That’s your benchmark.

Prizes: The winner, determined through community voting, will have the option to choose one of the following prizes:​

• Three free months of Digital Art Fundamentals​

• One free month of Skillbuilder​

• A Project Kit of your choice​

• A 30-minute consultation call with me​

• A full portfolio review from me​

✨ Plus, all monthly winners are entered into a drawing for a year-long scholarship to Concept Art Academy.​

This challenge is an excellent opportunity to push your creative boundaries and develop a piece that could enhance your portfolio. I look forward to seeing the innovative safe houses you design.