September 17 - 18

PICTOPLASMA NYC

Location
New York, United States
Attendance
In-person Event

About PICTOPLASMA NYC

Now in its 12th NYC edition, Pictoplasma returns to the SVA Theatre for two days of artist talks, animation screenings, portfolio reviews and industry meetups.

Over two days, the event explores how characters act as narrative agents that shape emotion, identity and meaning — and how they become vessels for experiences that resonate far beyond their creators. New in 2026 is a dedicated industry focus exploring how characters operate across branding, campaigns and audience engagement. With a program that is both critically engaged and creatively energizing, Pictoplasma NYC connects professionals from illustration, animation, design and visual arts, and continues to challenge conventions in figurative expression.

nyc.pictoplasma.com/

Speakers

Brian Blomerth

Learn more about Brian Blomerth

The veteran of the underground music and arts scene, who graced numerous album covers, posters and his own clothing brand.

Frank Ape

Learn more about Frank Ape

Since 2011, this character-driven practice explores identity, emotion, and the relationship between the individual and the collective.

Gemma Correll

Learn more about Gemma Correll

The British illustrator and cartoonist talks about mental health in a relatable and humorous way, particularly in her recently published bestseller “Anxietyland.”

Karlotta Freier

Learn more about Karlotta Freier

Award-winning illustrator acclaimed for her attention to detail with special focus on atmospheric style for clients such as Hermès, Dior, Coldplay or The Balvenie.

Sawako Kabuki

Learn more about Sawako Kabuki

Japanese animator and illustrator known for her distinctive hand-drawn style, irreverent point of view, non-apologetic take on the female body, and a passion for butts.

Spencer Gabor

Learn more about Spencer Gabor

Brooklyn-based illustrator and animator who loves to build environments for expressive characters in colorful settings with wonky perspectives.

Samuel Jerome Mason

Learn more about Samuel Jerome Mason

Visual artist and director weaving narratives through tactile dream worlds across animation, live action, and mixed media

Kevin Walker

of BUCK

Learn more about Kevin Walker

Chief Creative Officer of BUCK, working with organizations big and small to shepherd brand-defining output with a focus on campaigns and branding

Derek Gieraltowski and Shandy Tsai

of Duolingo

Learn more about Derek Gieraltowski and Shandy Tsai

Duolingo’s Senior Animator Derek Gieraltowski and Senior Creative Producer Shandy Tsai are in charge of keeping the famous, iconic mascot of the world’s most popular online learning platform on track