Creative Makeup: Haute Entomology

Haute Entomology reimagines insects through the lens of elevated beauty. This theme explores a hybrid transformation where human and insect characteristics merge.

Artists will create an original creature inspired by an insect, or combination of insects, of their choice. The makeup should blend recognisable insect-like elements such as wings, texture, patterning, or colour. The focus is on enhancing and elevating these features into something striking yet beautiful.

This theme encourages refined application, thoughtful colour, and intricate detailing, highlighting the delicate, iridescent, and ornamental qualities found in insects. The final look should feel otherworldly, recognise transformation, balance, and beauty in its most unexpected form.

Bridal Makeup: The Signature Bride

Bridal beauty in 2026 is personal, intentional, and elevated. This theme invites artists to create a bridal makeup look that represents their unique vision of the modern bride.

Artists should interpret what bridal means to them in 2026, whether that’s soft and ethereal, modern and sculpted, romantic, editorial, minimalist, or expressive. The look must reflect the artist’s personal style while demonstrating advanced technique, precision, and thoughtful detail.

This is not about trends alone, but about identity, craftsmanship, and innovation as a bridal makeup artist. Show us why you should hold the title of Bridal Makeup Artist of the Year 2026

Beauty Editorial:  Colour Alchemy
(Photographic)

Colour Alchemy is a bold celebration of colour theory through makeup. This theme explores how specific colour combinations like complementary, harmonious, monochromatic, and triadic can be used to evoke emotion & create impact.

Rather than colour for colour's sake, this theme is about deliberate, powerful placement. Each look is rooted in the foundational principles of colour theory and translated into vibrant, explosive beauty editorial looks. 

Artists should create two different editorial makeup looks, although different the images should look as though they are part of the same collection and tell a story.

Fashion Editorial: Runway Ready

This category challenges artists to step into the role of a key makeup artist at fashion week. Inspired by the visionary world of Iris van Herpen, artists must create a runway-ready makeup look that embodies her unmistakable aesthetic; where innovation, structure, movement, and organic form intersect.

Think sculptural beauty, ethereal textures, and futuristic elegance. The makeup should feel editorial and directional, designed to complement and elevate.

The final look should appear cohesive, intentional, and suited for a high-fashion runway.

Artists are not expected to create a full costume, but models should be dressed in inspired attire.