This September, Pictoplasma—Berlin’s world-leading character design conference—returns to New York for its 11th Pictoplasma NYC edition, bringing together a global community of artists, designers, illustrators, and storytellers.
Over two days, the event offers a unique opportunity to explore how character creation is evolving in response to generative image technologies, shifting aesthetic norms, and new forms of visual communication.
With a program that is both critically engaged and creatively energizing, Pictoplasma NYC blends reflection and celebration—offering fresh perspectives, artistic inspiration, and meaningful connections across disciplines.
From keynote artist talks and curated animation screenings to portfolio reviews and industry meetups, the conference invites professionals from advertising, design, animation, publishing, and visual arts to join an international network of creatives pushing the boundaries of figurative expression.
What to Expect
– Keynote lectures by leading and emerging artists, including Julian Glander, Lauren Martin, Coolman Coffeedan, Laser Days, frannerd, and others
– Curated screenings of contemporary character-driven animation, featuring works of John Kelly, Cat Johnston, Zohar Dvir, Will Anderson, and all sorts of Ducks by AJ Jefferies
– Portfolio reviews and industry meetups, with Titmouse, Hello Hornet, Buck, Jacky Winter, BA Reps and others
– Community gatherings and creative exchange across disciplines
As the US counterpart to Berlin’s flagship event, Pictoplasma NYC has become a pivotal forum for contemporary character design—where innovation, storytelling, and craft come together. The conference continues to challenge design conventions and amplify new voices in visual culture.
Full program and registration details:
👉 nyc.pictoplasma.com
Location and Date:
11th PICTOPLASMA NYC
Conference on Contemporary Character Design and Art
September 25 + 26, 2025
SVA Theatre
333 West 23rd Street
New York, NY 10011