Sure thing. I'm glad the JKA is posting stuff like this now. I plan on going to the awards ceremony at the end of this month so hopefully I'll get a few photos I can post here as well.
It's that time of year again. Check the first post for an updated Japanese language entry form. The English one is for reference only.
Updated the deadline for this year's kendama painting contest entries. Get it out before June 8 JST (a day ahead, June 7 in most areas). Remember that they are accepting entries by email, see OP, so that will make it easier.
Bump. Good News! I've contacted the JKA and they've extended the deadline to Friday 15th (Thursday 14th in the US).
Here are some of the top 20 from the 2018 contest. There were over 3,000 entries. Check out more on the JKA Instagram account or on their Facebook page.
I'm kind of proud of that one. It is from one of our guys in the Philippines. The artist's name is Alex Santos (Instagram) and he's a pretty good artist I think, but then again I'm biased. Update: I passed along your comment and Alex (Santos) says "thank you."
Oh, thats awesome! I didn't realize you knew him, thanks for doing that. This one is really nice too, I like the effect of the sort of layered style
@htimSxelA His work has been shown in at least one gallery in the US from what I recall and he's still only 17-18(?). I think he's also considering painting custom kendama for sale but they'd likely be artwork kendama rather than the "destroy all damas" variety.
Reminder for those interested in this contest. The due day is this week Friday (Japan time). I'd suggest sending by Thursday if you're in the US.
Just remember that Japan is basically a day ahead of the US so you'll need to get in your entry by the 13th (US time) to be safe.
As are many events this year the painting contest has been pushed back. First post updated with new submission date and other info. 2020 UPDATE Stage 1 submission deadline August 31, Monday JST