Hatsune Miku × GSC Illustration Contest 10th Results: Gothic & Horror Winner Confirmed for Figure Production

The results for the 10th theme selection of the "Hatsune Miku × Good Smile Illustration Contest," a collaboration between Good Smile Company (GSC) and Piapro, have been officially announced. The theme for this contest was "Gothic & Horror," and the Grand Prize-winning work has been confirmed to be made into a figure.

Grand Prize Work "Gothic & Horror": The Perfect Balance of Cute and Terrifying

The competition this time was exceptionally fierce. The judging panel noted that while many entries excelled in the "Gothic" style, the integration of "Horror" elements was somewhat conservative.

The Grand Prize-winning work successfully found an excellent balance between "cute" and "horror." The piece retains Hatsune Miku's cute characteristics while cleverly incorporating terrifying elements such as bandages, a ghostly sheet, and a sense of emptiness. It was unanimously praised by the judges as a masterpiece "most suitable for three-dimensional realization."

Officials simultaneously announced the "Decision to Make a Figure" news. Fans can look forward to the release of this Hatsune Miku figure, which is full of a sense of three-dimensional depth.

Key Points from the Comments by the Distinguished Judging Panel

Aki Takanori – GSC Representative Director and Chairman

Chairman Aki gave high praise from a figure production perspective: "I was initially wondering if 'cute horror' was suitable for three-dimensional realization, but then I discovered this perfect work!"

He specifically pointed out:

The hollow design at the bandage on the right foot
The holes in the draped sheet
These details show an excellent "sense of three-dimensional depth"

"The face is super cute! I believe this will become a wonderful figure."

Koyama Shigeto – Art Director / Character Designer

Mr. Koyama pointed out that many entrants focused too much on "Gothic" elements and neglected the "Horror" theme. He commented: "This Miku indeed incorporates horror elements, but it's controlled right at the edge of 'not making one feel disgusted,' perfectly landing within the realm of 'cute.' The sense of balance is excellent!"

He also raised an interesting point: "The illustration background is black, creating a cool contrast with the holes. Imagine if, when turned into a figure, looking through the holes reveals a white background—what effect would that have? If the artist considered even this point, that's even more outstanding!"

Yoneyama Mai – Illustrator / Animator

Ms. Yoneyama praised the work's fun aspect: "Horror elements can easily feel heavy, but this work is full of cuteness in both expression and pose, even making one chuckle."

She particularly liked the silhouette design: "Although it's a large ghostly silhouette, it creates many hollows. Details like the foot disappearing through the bandage gaps are fun to look at. I really want to see the physical figure!"

Shimazaki Mari – Illustrator

Ms. Shimazaki candidly stated: "Frankly, it's cute!" She felt that while the work incorporates horror elements, it is visually very comfortable.

She mentioned the color usage:

The holes in the ghost sheet don't look dirty; instead, they have a trendy feel.
The gap design in the foot bandages is brilliant.
The small amount of bloodstains used as an accent color works very well.

Wada Arco – Illustrator

Ms. Wada concluded: "The balance of cute, gothic, and horror is too good!" She enumerated the little easter eggs in the work: the bandaged foot echoing the hairstyle, the cloth that looks like a collection of ghosts, etc. "This is an illustration with extremely high completion and full of service spirit. The candle on the head is so cute ♥"

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When will the Grand Prize work be released as a physical figure? A: Currently, officials have only announced the "Decision to Make a Figure." Please follow Good Smile Company's future announcements for the specific release date.

Q: Is the theme different for each Hatsune Miku illustration contest? A: Yes, each contest has a different theme. The 10th contest's theme was "Gothic & Horror."

Q: Who can participate in this illustration contest? A: The contest is jointly hosted by Good Smile Company and Piapro. Please refer to the official announcement for detailed participation qualifications.

Conclusion

With the announcement of the 10th "Gothic & Horror" results, fans are full of anticipation for this Hatsune Miku figure that combines gothic aesthetics with ghostly elements. Please stay tuned to Good Smile Company's future news and get ready to welcome this cute ghost Miku with a candle on her head and wrapped in bandages!