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WeLoveFine has a simple motto––”For fans by fans.” The WeLoveFine online shop features fan-created, officially licensed products that each truly express the passion fans have for their chosen fandom, whether it involves ponies, evil ex-boyfriends, or Spock.
Recently, WeLoveFine asked fans to submit their best Naruto T-shirt designs for the “Naruto Shippuden Design Contest.” From the hundreds of submissions, only the best designs by talented creators were chosen. The selection process was grueling, but Naruto creator Masashi Kishimoto, manga editor Joe Otsuki, and animation director Hayato Date helped with the decision. A Grand Prize, Masashi Kishimoto Award, Hayato Date Award, Joe Otsuki Judge Pick, Hot Topic Pick, Runner Up, and five honorable mentions were awarded. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the winning designs that really impressed us.
Caroline Nicole’s “Unified” design earned her the Grand Prize, a trip to Anime Expo 2013, and more. Caroline commented, “The first time I saw Naruto, I knew I wanted to be an artist.” She is currently working on a story which she hopes to share in the near future.
Brooke Hearon’s “Red Balloon” earned her the Masashi Kishimoto Award, $300, and some major bragging rights. Only 17 years old, this aspiring artist has a ton of potential as shown in this comedic, unique design.
Unbelievably, Brooke also won the Hayato Date Award for her “Red Sun” design, netting her an additional $300. We love the solemn coolness that this silhouetted design exudes.
This design titled “Naruto Bij Mode” by Ladygt G.Lenzi won the Joe Otsuki Award and $300. Ladygt is a 20-year-old swimming teacher with a passion for drawing, which definitely shows through in her fiery design.
Darren Montalbano’s “Iconic” design earned him an honorable mention and a cash prize of $50. Darren isn’t just a talented illustrator, he also has cosplayed at Comic Con for the past three years as Pain using a 100% hand-made costume. The simplified, modern design of “Iconic” is eye-catching and features many of the much-loved characters of Naruto.
If you’d like to view all the winning designs, read more about the creators, or purchase a T-shirt, visit the "Naruto Shippuden Design Contest" winners page. Which design is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
This is a Tokyo Otaku Mode original article.
