Categories
Below is a list of the categories:
Visual Art: B&W and color drawings, Prints, Photographs, Paintings, Mixed Media, and Graphic Design
Multimedia: Animation, Audio, Installation, Interactive Media, Video
Writing: Poetry, Fiction, Essay
Guidelines
Welcome to Tidepools! We are excited to see your creative work. Please read the following guidelines carefully to ensure your submission meets our requirements.
General Submission Information
- **Submission Type**: Tidepools publishes original art, comics, poetry, fiction, and essays exclusively from MiraCosta College students, staff, and factulty, and awards cash prizes to students in each category. You may submit a maximum of 3 entries in each of the categories below.
Submission Process
1. **Upload Your Work**: Use the online submission form to upload your document and any accompanying files. DO NOT PUT YOUR NAME ON YOUR ENTRIES.
2. **Include a Cover Letter**: Use the online submission form to fill out a coversheet for each entry and upload your document file or .jpeg (for art submissions). Briefly introduce yourself and provide any relevant background information about your work in your artist statement.
3. **Submit**: Once you have filled out the submission form and uploaded your materials, click "Submit."
Formatting Guidelines
- **Document Format**: Please submit your work in a .docx or .pdf format. Ensure that the document is not password protected.
- **Font and Size**: Use a standard font (e.g., Times New Roman, Arial) in 12-point size.
- **Line Spacing**: Use double spacing for text submissions. Poetry submissions can be single-spaced.
- **Margins**: Use 1-inch margins on all sides.
Image Specifications
Resolution: 300 DPI for print, 72 DPI for web
File Size: less than 5MB
Full-Page Artwork
Size: 8.5" x 11" (Portrait) or 11" x 8.5" (Landscape)
Download Template
Content Guidelines
- Spoken Word: Poets must submit a file of a written version of their piece abiding by the poetry guidline above and may choose to include a link to a YouTube video (under 5 minutes) of a performance of that same piece.
- Visual Art: B&W and color drawings, prints, photographs, paintings, mixed media, and graphic design. Should be in .jpg or .png format.
- Poetry: 1000-word limit, single spaced.
- Fiction: 1800-word limit, double-spaced.
- Creative non-fiction and essays: 1800-word limit, double-spaced.
- Comic strips and graphic novels/memoirs: 5-10 panels maximum.
Image Specifications
- Resolution: 300 DPI for print, 72 DPI for web
- File Size: less than 5MB
Template Downloads
- **Relevance**: Your submission should be relevant to the magazine's theme for the current issue. Check our website for the latest theme.
- **Tone and Style**: We appreciate diverse voices and encourage submissions that reflect personal experiences, insights, and creativity.
- **Plagiarism**: All submissions must be your own work. Plagiarism will not be tolerated and will result in immediate disqualification.
Review Process
- **Response Time**: We aim to respond to all submissions within [X weeks/months]. If you have not heard from us by then, feel free to inquire about your submission status.
- **Editing**: Selected pieces may be edited for clarity, length, or style. You will be notified of any significant changes before publication.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding submissions, please contact us at tidepools@miracosta.edu or visit our website at https://tidepools.matmcc.org/.
FAQ's
1. What types of submissions do you accept?
We accept a variety of submissions, including articles, essays, poetry, artwork, and photography. Please refer to our submission guidelines for specific details on each category.
2. How do I submit my work?
To submit your work, please fill out the submission form on our website. Make sure to include all required fields and upload your files as specified in our guidelines.
3. Is there a submission fee?
No, we do not charge a submission fee. All submissions are free of charge.
4. What are your submission guidelines?
Our submission guidelines can be found on the "Guidelines" tab of our website. Please ensure that your work adheres to these guidelines regarding format, length, and content.
5. Can I submit multiple pieces at once?
Yes, you can submit multiple pieces. However, please submit each piece separately and ensure that they comply with our submission guidelines.
6. How long will it take to hear back about my submission?
We aim to respond to all submissions within 6-8 weeks. However, this may vary depending on the volume of submissions we receive.
7. Can I withdraw my submission after I have sent it?
Yes, you may withdraw your submission at any time before it has been accepted for publication. Please contact us with your request, including the title of your submission.
8. Will I retain copyright of my work?
Yes, you will retain the copyright of your work. However, by submitting, you grant us the right to publish it in our magazine and on our website.
9. What happens if my submission is accepted?
If your submission is accepted, we will notify you via email and provide details regarding the publication process. You may be asked to make minor edits or revisions.
10. Can I submit work that has been previously published?
Please refer to our submission guidelines for specific policies regarding previously published work. Generally, we prefer original content that has not been published elsewhere.
11. How can I contact you for further questions?
You can reach us through our "Contact Us" page or email us directly at tidepools@miracosta.edu. We’re happy to assist you with any questions or concerns.
12. Do you offer feedback on submissions?
While we strive to provide feedback on all submissions, due to the volume of entries, we may not be able to offer detailed critiques. However, we value every submission and appreciate your effort.
