STUDENT ART CONTEST: DRAW DARRELL 2027
Calling all student artists in Clallam and Jefferson counties: Create your own version of our Squatchcon Sasquatch mascot and win a cash scholarship and a spot in our student vendor program! Deadline October 31st
FIRST PRIZE: $500 Cash Scholarship
8 tickets for Squatchcon 2027 + acceptance as a student vendor
YOUR design will be used for our 2027 Darrell and Squatchcon promotion!
SECOND PRIZE: $250 Cash Scholarship
4 tickets for Squatchcon 2027 + acceptance as a student vendor
THIRD PRIZE: $50 Cash Scholarship
+ 4 tickets for Squatchcon 2027 + acceptance as a student vendor
Darrell is the happiest when he’s enjoying the beautiful wilderness of the Olympic Peninsula. We want to see you draw Darrell frolicking in the flowers, playing hide-and-seek in the trees, lounging by a lake, or playing in the natural world!
OUR THEME FOR SQUATCHCON 2027: KEEP HIDE AND SEEK FUN!
Our original Darrell mascot was drawn by local artist Cammry Lapka in 2022 for the first ever Squatchcon Comic & Arts Convention.
In 2024 we asked local students to draw their own version of Darrell. Kailah Blake reimagined Darrell as a cheerful landscape painter.
For our 5th Squatchcon, we asked students to imagine Darrell as a cute little 5-year-old! Evelyn Halverson designed the cheeky little Darrell above.
👣 INSTRUCTIONS
1. Create your own unique Darrell character sketch. Your character should be your own version of a friendly Sasquatch frolicking in nature, playing hide-and-seek, or otherwise enjoying their beautiful natural habitat. Please submit at least one version of your character with no background. Multiple sketches of your character are welcome - be sure to sign all of your artwork.
2. To submit to the contest, email a photo, scan, or png file with your sketches to info@squatchconpa.com (include your name, social media handles (if applicable) and phone number for contact). You may also post your entry directly on social media - be sure to tag us and use the hashtag #DrawDarrell to ensure your entry is counted.
3. We'll be sharing the entries on our page and asking the community to vote for their favorites. Be sure to tell your friends and family to vote for you!
4. Submissions close on October 31st, voting will occur the week of November 15th - 22nd and winners will be announced December 1st Winners will be contacted via phone, email, and direct message via this account. Be careful to not provide any personal information to potential scammers on social media.
👣 RULES:
1. Student must be between the ages of 12 and 21 and currently and enrolled in a local middle, high school, or college program including homeschool and alternative schooling programs. Applications accepted for students based in Clallam or Jefferson county.
2. Artwork must be completely original; no AI artwork or sketches of established Sasquatch characters will be considered. Please use this as an opportunity to stretch your creative muscles.
3. Students under the age of 18 must have consent from a parent or guardian to participate. Winners under 18 will be required to submit a consent form signed by themselves and their guardian.
👣 THE STORY OF DARRELL
Our original Darrell design was developed by local artist Cammry Lapka and named via social media poll of the community. Darrell is an art-loving, friendly, slightly nerdy Sasquatch who loves nothing more than connecting with community, sharing stories, and communing with nature.
At Squatchcon we see Sasquatch as a protector of the forest and a source of wisdom, inspiration, and wonder. We'd like your Sasquatch to reflect our values: be welcoming, be kind, be yourself. Sasquatch believes in you!
SQUATCHCON STUDENT VENDOR PROGRAM
The Student Vendor Program is the heart of Squatchcon. Since our first convention, Squatchcon has always featured student artists and first-time vendors. We are aware that young people growing up in small, rural communities often feel that they must leave their hometown in order to start their careers - particularly creative careers. At Squatchcon, we know that is not true.
We are dedicated to providing young artists experiences and connections that can help them get started on their goals right here in Clallam County. Accepted student vendors receive free table space to sell their work at the Squatchcon convention, as well as supplementary support throughout the event. We’ve worked with incredible regional organizations like Dark Horse Comics and local organizations like Juan de Fuca Foundation for the Arts to connect students with mentors who can guide their next steps.
Squatchcon is proud to be just the beginning for these talented entrepreneurs. We believe in them, and we hope Squatchcon helps them believe in themselves!
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE SQUATCHCON STUDENT VENDOR PROGRAM
Student vendors are asked to submit a short application describing their work and summarizing some of their goals for Squatchcon and for their artistic career. Students are also asked to submit examples of their work and commit to donating 10% of their net proceeds to a local charity of their choice.
Students are expected to commit to their full vending time and may be asked to attend workshops, panels, and other networking opportunities as part of their convention commitment. Parent/guardian consent is required for student vendors under the age of 18. Student vendors under the age of 13 must also have a parent or guardian present to assist them at the event.
Clallam County high school students are given priority; Jefferson County students are also encouraged to apply. Squatchcon considers applications from students aged 12-21 currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a local middle, high school, or college program, including homeschool and alternative schooling programs.
We are so grateful to the many individuals, professionals, and businesses who have stepped up to support the Squatchcon student vendor program. There are many ways to get involved: we are always looking for financial support, connections to local mentors, internship opportunities, and other enrichment experiences for our student vendors. Here’s how you can help:
Donate to Sponsor a Student Vendor: A $150 sponsorship supports table space and mentorship for two student artists. A $250 - $500 sponsorship allows us to put additional funds aside for student arts scholarship opportunities like this one. Email info@squatchconpa.com to become a sponsor.
Be a Mentor: We are always looking for individual professionals or organizations to lend their time, talents, and expertise in assistance. If you would like to join us at Squatchcon to share your experiences or if your organization has opportunities for students to get involved, we’d love to hear from you.
Spread the Word: Squatchcon is a growing organization! Help us continue to grow by spreading the word. Student vendor opportunities are available to all current middle and high-school students in Clallam or Jefferson county including students who are currently homeschooled.