Visual AP Guide

Hello guys!

We've taken the time to split up the AP Guide into several parts for the ease of new-comers and those who have been around the block. This first part is for Visual Arts such as Digital and Traditionally done images. Remember that some events have additional limitations on the maximum number of characters presented within! As always, if you have any questions, please head to the #AP-Questions channel in our Discord!

When judging AP value for an image you want to have the guide open in a separate window or tab, allowing you to reflect back on the official values or counts. The Shedu cats website will always have the most up to date current AP Values listed. This Guide will help you break down each image in your tracker, step by step, to help alleviate any confusion caused by the overall guide. 

    TOOLS:

• AP Visual GUIDE Or AP Judging Table - For Current Values

• Deviantart Image Page Open

• Personal Tracker Page Open

• Calculator

Once you have your tracker set up with all of your cat’s information, you will want to set up the image in its space. We do prefer JPEG, PNG, or Thumb formats where we can preview the art before opening it; but it is not a requirement for tracking. Google Sheets, Docs, and Deviantart Post(s) or Journal(s) are all preferred forms of submission for the overall tracker, but we do accept ART/LIT posted on most platforms such as, Instagram, Toyhouse, FA, etc. as long as it can be safely accessed via browser. 

||| IMPORTANT||| Stashed art on Deviantart must be submitted before being counted for AP. We do NOT accept unsubmitted art unless it is for the purpose of breaking up large images such as mass training images or non-comic large groupings.

Each Base count for a character should revolve around the physical visual depiction as well as the anatomy level and detail of that character.

With most visual art work, you have Head Shots, Half Body and Full Body Depictions of which can vary from Strongly Stylized forms, Simplified forms, Standard forms to Detailed forms. These Subjects then have varying stages and levels of progress; starting with a rough, basic sketch, all the way up to a Detailed Lineart.

Together these three aspects make up the base count for your character, and each character earning AP; each is to be judged in these general manners, based on the ability that you possess.

Composition of the Subject Animal

Start with the First Step, the composition determining the Form; Full-body, Half-body, or Headshot of the cat you are counting the AP for. 

• Headshot - Can be defined by: as minimal as the Cheekbones up for a view of the eyes and ears of the animal, and as maximal as the shoulders up for a full view of the head and Neck. 

• Half-body - There are several factors that come into consideration when it comes to half-body. The existing Guide has examples available but, as long as 50% of the cat is visible, it counts as Half Body. 

• Full-body - A complete depiction of the animal from head to tail. 

IMPORTANT! There are various angles and poses in which most of the body is not visible for the viewer. (When you look at the cat from the front and the beast is in the middle of the jump etc). However, such depictions will still be counted as full body unless there is a clear attempt to hide the cat's body. (For example, poor composition choices like putting bushes in front of the cat or placing the cat in the very corner of the image will result in reasonable demotion.)

Identifying Sketch VS Lineart

We have 2 types of line work that are identified in the AP guide: Sketch work and Lineart; both of which have a Simple Option and a Detailed Option.

Stages of progress for linework are:

• PAINTERLY: + 0.5 AP (little to no sketch or lines visible)

• ROUGH SKETCH: + 0.5 AP (broken and/or “hairy” lines; layered for definition; a rough skeleton left visible, inconsistent stroke opacity)  

• CLEAN SKETCH: + 1 AP (Not as “hairy” in the lines, more consistent stroke opacity, creates a silhouette when filled)

• STANDARD LINEART: + 1 AP (consistent opacity in the lines, no “hairy” lines at all, no unnecessarily broken/disconnected lines, should be of ARPG Import upload quality, creates a silhouette when filled)    

• DETAILED LINEART: + 2 AP (shows textures/details, inner definition, noticeable muscles and/or hair, defining details)

IMPORTANT! To preface this, we take into account the ability of the artist, what type of art they are presenting, as well as the Shedu Cat standard form that is described in each breed's information.

ANATOMY AND FORM

The AP System is not designed as a tool for judging the artistic or aesthetic value of your work. Its sole purpose is to award AP points for creative submissions. It does not imply any judgment of their artistic merit.

By definition, any evaluation of creative work is inherently subjective. To remain as objective as possible, we rely on clearly defined markers and aspects that can be assessed objectively—such as adherence to the Shedu reference (import image)  and the amount and level of detail depicted.

We also recognize that every artist in the group has their own individual style and level of drawing skill. Our goal is to maintain a balance between these two aspects - the skill and truthful depiction of the shedu\subject.

With this in mind, please note that the terminology used in the “Forms” section—Strongly Stylized, Simple, Standard, and Detailed/Advanced—is intended specifically to describe how accurately you depict your Shedu in your artwork. Shedu, as a fictional species, have distinct anatomical features and traits that differentiate them from other creatures.

We do accept artwork in styles that do not fully adhere to the reference; however, such pieces receive fewer points because they omit important defining details. In this context, “Standard” means that your depiction of a Shedu includes all key distinguishing features: a viewer can easily identify the Shedu type and would be able to verbally describe the fundamental traits and forms that define it.

Identifying the form seems to be where most people have trouble. You will have to look at the individual Artist’s gallery to find their Strongly Stylized, Simple, Standard, and Detailed form to compare with the piece of art you are trying to count the AP for. If you need help with this, you can DM any of the AP Admins or ask a question in the Shedu cats Discord for further assistance with the piece. We are always open to help you, as we know it can be a daunting task right out of the gate.

* If you feel that the typical AP guide is NOT a fair judge of your particular art style, we have created this form to aid in representation by providing the AP team with a true rubric upon which to compare to your art. 

IMPORTANT!!! Use of this template will require your AP submissions be routed through proper channels.

Active Handler of the Subject Cat

Only counts for Handlers (full body / 50% +) visible who are actively interacting with the Subject Cat.    

• + 0 AP Shadow formed (implied handler shapes)

• + .5 AP Simple Handler (simple colors/no or minimal detail)

• + 1 AP Standard Handler (correct form/simplified details)

• + 2 AP Detailed Handler (anatomically + visible details fingers/eyes/hair form present+ details)

IMPORTANT! If the handler of the subject cat has a completed Shedu Novice Diploma, you get a bonus for the handled cat but it MUST link back to that Handler’s SND comment. 

• +1 AP - Handler Holds a SND

This bonus does NOT stack even if multiple handlers have their SND's.
- Further, SND bonus is only applied to the cat(s) the handler is directly training

Example ; If Shedu A is being trained by handler A, and Shedu B is being trained by handler B, but only handler A holds a SND, then only Shedu A will gain this bonus!

Team activities (sports, shows, training, etc.) are the ONLY exception for this rule; cats present in a team can be handled by one handler.

General tack and attire can be defined as halter, bridle, saddle, etc. Other forms of tack can be seen as event costumes, decorations, mane and tail braiding, shave patterns in the coat (when in show), flowers braided into mane, etc.

• + .5 AP : Simple Shedu Tack or Attire

• + 1 AP : Standard  Shedu Tack or Attire

• + 2 AP : Detailed  Shedu Tack or Attire

The examples show only part of a Shedu Cat’s regular tack - halter, but it's viable for any and all types of tack or attire. If 'attire' upon a handler, it must be beyond the basic clothing of the handler, such as additional jewelry, armor, abnormal outfit, or otherwise not their normal look.

Photo Manipulated Backgrounds

Currently these Backgrounds are graded on a case to case bases.

ALL Photo Manipulated Backgrounds MUST link to their original Stock image.

Generally, those PM-BG's that have clearly had extensive editing / painting into them, can count as backgrounds and could earn up to 2 AP maximum. While those with little to no adjustment may possibly not earn any AP.

Spectators and Ambient Creatures

This bonus is broken into three sections depending on how detailed the Ambient Humans / Creatures are within the piece. This bonus does NOT Stack, and should be seen as an average level of detail across the entirety of the background characters viewed.

This Bonus is for NON-ARPG related creatures in the background.

CATERGORIES:

• + 0.5 AP - Simple Spectator and Ambient Creatures; Shapes and shadows of ambient spectators / creatures

• + 1 AP - Standard Spectator and Ambient Creatures; Clearly what they are intended to be with minor details

• + 2 AP - Detailed Spectator and Ambient Creatures; Heavy clear detailing on ambient spectators / creatures

• + 3 AP - Complex Spectator and Ambient Creatures; Recognizable characters or creatures with different features and details unique to that being.

Architecture / Structure Bonus

This bonus is dedicated to looking at the man made objects, vehicles, and/or buildings presented within the art piece, granting AP dependent upon detail. Structures can be something as simple as a man made fence in the background (Simple) to buildings and structures like a city scape with clear brand signs, vehicles, ect (Complex).

• + .5 AP - Simple Architecture; Shapes and shadows of structures

• + 1 AP - Standard Architecture; Clearly what they are intended to be with minor details

• + 2 AP - Detailed Architecture; Heavy clear detailing on man made structures

• + 3 AP - Complex Architecture; Recognizable Objects with different features and details unique to that being.

Shows

To gain the Show bonus the image depicting the Shedu Cat in Question must be entered in an active show. Further this includes ; Bi-Weekly Races, Group Sponsored Shows, Classic and Breeders SPC's, Prospective Beast Tests, and all Official Group Shows and those sponsored and approved by SheduCats Group. These pieces should clearly identify what event the characters are participating in, not just Shedus and Handlers mindlessly wandering around for explorations, or taking a nap during the middle of a show!

ADDITIONALLY : Some Shedu Shows give additional AP as prizes to the Shedus. This AP should ALWAYS be processed through the bank and the link used for this 'BOUND" AP should come from the Shedu being Graded's LOG.

• + 3 AP - Show Bonus  - * To Receive this Bonus the Show must be LINKED to the Submission Comment in the Show Journal*

IMPORTANT! THIS BONUS CANNOT STACK WITH EXPLORATIONS, ONLY ONE OF THESE OPTIONS IS VALID FOR THIS BONUS. 

Show Placement

For those who can validly link to an Official Group Show (or Show Sponsored and Approved by the SheduCats Group) Placement from the Shedu's LOG.

• + 3 AP - First Place - * To Receive this Bonus the Show must be LINKED to the Show Results Journal or Comment listing the depicted cat in its placement. 

• + 2 AP - Second Place - * To Receive this Bonus the Show must be LINKED to the Show Results Journal or Comment listing the depicted cat in its placement.

• + 1 AP - Third Place - * To Receive this Bonus the Show must be LINKED to the Show Results Journal or Comment listing the depicted cat in its placement.

Explorations

Explorations are Available to everyone for several Shedu locations please see Explorations Page for an in depth guide to exploring in the Shedu Universe. 

ADDITIONALLY : Some Shedu Explorations give additional AP as prizes to the Shedus. This AP should ALWAYS be processed through the bank and the link used for this 'BOUND" AP should come from the Shedu being Graded's LOG.

• + 3 AP - Exploration Bonus  - * To Receive this Bonus the Exploration LOG must be LINKED to the Submission Comment in the Exploration Journal*

IMPORTANT! THIS BONUS CANNOT STACK WITH EXPLORATIONS, ONLY ONE OF THESE OPTIONS IS VALID FOR THIS BONUS. 

Shedu Fundamental Trainings

This bonus is for art pieces that specifically have been turned in as Shedu Fundamental Training Pieces. These pieces should clearly identify what is happening for the SFT, and not just be handlers and their Shedus mindlessly wandering around. We must be able to clearly know that the Shedus are 'Training to Stand Tied" or "Training to walk on a lead"! 

• + 2 AP Shedu Fundamental Training * To Receive this Bonus the entry must be LINKED to the Submission Comment in the SFT Journal* 

Active Characters

There can be up to 10 TOTAL Active Characters. The Total of 10 DOES include Primary Subject and their Handler in the Total, moreover, the Primary cat and handler do NOT give an Extra +1 AP as an Active Creature. Meaning you cannot count your Primary Handler Twice! 

Bonus creatures such as additional handlers, cats, ARPG species and group cats relevant to the piece they are featured in only count if your entry is clearly of standard quality in cat, handler, and background (shading, tack, percentage of cat shown are an exception to this rule) however this is judged against your own gallery and must be at least of standard quality for your usual pieces.

Values with their Maximum Count: 

•  +1 AP Active Shedu / Per Creature 5 Max
  ( Shedus that are taking part in the activity/belongs to DA-members, not Shedu group ) - One Spot taken if your Primary Character is a Shedu

•  +1 AP Active Handler / Per Humanoid 5 Max
  ( Handlers that are taking part in the activity that has a DA-group accepted reference ) - One Spot taken if your Primary Character is a Handler / Is your Primary Handler

  • ** Team activities (sports, shows, training, etc.) are the ONLY exception for this rule; cats present in a team can be handled by one handler.

•  +1 AP Active Creature / Per Creature 5 Max
  ( Group / Elsevier Cats, Other and Non-ARPG species, companions, background creatures )

IMPORTANT! All 'Active' Characters MUST have legitimate uploaded reference sheets! These Sheets should be LINKED in the Deviation itself or a comment on the deviation to gain the Extra Character Bonus! 

You can not exceed the limits:

• You can not put 6 active creatures, 2 active handlers and 2 extra creatures. (6 is more than cap of 5)

• Or 7 extra creatures and 3 active characters.(7 is more than cap of 5)

• Just Remember No More than 5 Per 'type' and no more than 10 total!

Bonus handlers, cats and other Creatures must be relevant to the art you are drawing and not hastily forced into the image! Same goes for other ARPGS and Group cats featured!

Shedu Mascot Feature - + 0.5 AP

This bonus is for Art Pieces that specifically include one of the Official Shedu Mascots clearly within an image with at least 50% of their body showing.

Mascots can be drawn into pieces as physical beings, or as pictures, billboard art, banners, etc.

Monthly Prompts -

For those who can LINK a submitted Monthly Prompt entry to the corresponding valid log.  Not all prompts allow Literature entries.

Valid once per cat, per month; unless otherwise stated.

ADDITIONALLY: This AP should be validated through the BANK and applied to the Shedu cat's LOG!

• + 3- 5 AP Monthly Prompts * To Receive this Bonus the entry must be LINKED to the Submission Comment in the Monthly Prompt Journal*

IMPORTANT! AP amount is dependent upon the prompt itself.

Monthly Theme -

For those who can LINK a submitted Monthly Theme entry to the corresponding valid log.

Valid once per cat, per month; unless otherwise stated.

ADDITIONALLY: This AP should be validated through the BANK and applied to the Shedu cat's LOG!

• + 5 AP Monthly Theme* To Receive this Bonus the entry must be LINKED to the Submission Comment in the Monthly Theme Journal*

IMPORTANT! AP amount is dependent upon the prompt itself.

Seasonal AP -

For those who can LINK a submitted Seasonal AP entry to the corresponding valid log.

Valid multiple times per cat, per month; unless otherwise stated.

ADDITIONALLY: This AP should be validated through the BANK and applied to the Shedu cat's LOG!

• + 3 AP Seasonal AP* To Receive this Bonus the entry must be LINKED to the Submission Comment in the Monthly Theme Journal*

IMPORTANT! AP amount is dependent upon the prompt itself.

Official Reference Sheet - + 10 AP

This Bonus is only allowed ONCE per CHARACTER for Valid AP Counting. (Meaning Subsequent References will not earn this Bonus)
Further - This Reference sheet may be Head Shot but must at least be Colored to count.
Additionally , The Character should have adequate information about them in the artists Comments, to include ; a link back to their SheduMaster uploaded Reference (if a Shedu).

Examples ;
Shedu Reference: Historia | Torch n Batty Official Reference | Tabs Strutting His Stuff
Juan Elsevier | Sasha F. Melor | Samuel Rahmer |

Featured Art Bonus - + 10 AP

For those who can LINK a Featured Art Stamp applied to the Shedu's Log. 

Only valid once per piece, per uploaded Shedu within the piece.

If no Shedus are within the piece, valid per valid handler, who has a valid Reference Sheet, for Unbound AP.

ADDITIONALLY: This AP should be validated through the BANK and applied to the Shedu cat's LOG!

FAQ & CLARIFICATIONS