How a Pokémon Fan Turned His Passion Into Art
Jia Tat, better known as GameboxTart, is a highly talented and passionate artist who pours his love for Pokémon and its world into every piece he creates.
His work ranges from sketches and paintings to hand-drawn trading cards, each piece reflecting the games, characters, and worlds that mean something to him.
Finding New Inspiration Through Pokémon and Beyond
Since young, art has always been a part of Jia Tat’s life, but his passion truly reignited when his wife, Sanny, gifted him a Nintendo Switch along with a copy of Pokémon Scarlet.
Shortly after, he began experimenting with Pokémon-inspired animations, and before long, discovered his true calling: transforming TCG energy cards into unique, hand-painted works of art.
As his artistic journey deepened, so did his sources of inspiration. His drive to create is fueled by admiration for legendary artists such as Akira Toriyama, the visionary behind Dragon Ball, and the late Kim Jung Gi, renowned for his boundless imagination and masterful draftsmanship.
He also finds motivation close to home, especially from local creators like tiredbutwoke, a tattoo artist and watercolor specialist whose creativity pushes him to keep experimenting and growing.
His Defining Moment as a Pokémon Artist
Of all the pieces Jia Tat has created, a hand-drawn Giratina holds a special place in his heart. It was his first submission to PSA for authentication as an artist, a process that initially ended in disappointment when the card was rejected.
But just weeks later, Jia Tat received the unexpected news that his submission had been approved and officially graded, earning him recognition as an official Pokémon artist by PSA.
That approval meant the world to him. It validated every late night and quiet moment spent perfecting his craft, and it stood as a reminder of how far his dedication and love for Pokémon art had carried him.
The Moments and Friendships That'll Stay With Him For Life
Community has always been at the heart of Jia Tat’s journey. Over the years, it has led him to countless meaningful moments and encounters. His first big step into the art community came when YellowPlutoVillage invited him to share a booth at TCGKL, marking his debut as an exhibiting artist.
Later, he crossed paths with members of OnlyFriendsLah!, a group of like-minded collectors and artists who shared his passion for doing good in the community. Among them was Kyle, one of the first to believe in his work, commissioning a Snorlax x Garra piece that helped build his confidence as an artist.
On most recently during Card Mania 2025, Jia Tat met Nidouken, the Director of PSA. There, he proudly showcased his freshly graded Giratina and presented Nidouken with a hand-drawn Gyarados on a holo water energy card; an exchange that perfectly captured how far his art and relationships in the community had come.
When it comes to my own collection, I just go for cards with artwork that speaks to me; not necessarily the ones that are considered big hits.
Growing as an Artist, Collector, and Human Being
Beyond the cards and illustrations, this hobby has brought Jia Tat a sense of healing and belonging. During a period of burnout from work, the TCG and art communities gave him a new outlet for expression and connection.
Today, as part of a vibrant network of artists and collectors, Jia Tat continues to grow; not just as an artist, but as someone who brings others together through creativity and love for Pokémon.
Artist Showcase
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