ManneqArt: Costume Competition

ManneqArt is an organization focused on bringing Wearable Art to the attention of the American public. Through a variety of events during the year, the organization showcases the best in imaginative Hair, Makeup, Costuming, and Digital Art. The focal point of the season is a Public Display of exceptional designs culminating in a Gala Event where finalists present their work. Winning artists can receive awards totaling $50,000, with up to $16,000 for the Gold Award Winner. Located in Howard County, Maryland, USA, ManneqArt engages a community committed to embracing the arts.

Individual submissions for Hair, Makeup, or Costume are welcome. Applicants can complete a head-to-toe look alone or form a team with one participant for each component. Entry fees vary by deadline: $25 (March 30), $30 (April 30), $35 (May 30, final deadline for Hair and Makeup submissions), $40 (June 30), and $45 (July 30, final deadline for Costume submissions). Submission fees cover only one section and cannot be refunded. Multiple submissions per applicant or team must be filed separately. Applicants must create original designs and concepts that comply with copyright guidelines and do not infringe on intellectual property rights. Designs should not include brand names or logos. Student work created as part of an academic curriculum is acceptable.

Work samples must include 3-8 images and up to 1 video. Images should be submitted by the early deadline (March 30) or late deadline (April 30) for preliminary judging. Photographs must be high quality (300dpi resolution), taken with clean, simple lighting against a plain white background, with at least one front view and two detail images. All materials used must be safe and non-toxic. Designs must allow models to move safely on the runway with eyes not fully covered. No perishable items may be used. Costumes must be designed to fit ManneqArt mannequins and be flexible enough to permit models to pass through doorways, climb stairs, and ramps. Garments must be able to be stepped into and not go over the model's head. If selected, ManneqArt will hold artwork from April to November of the competition year. ManneqArt strongly encourages artists to insure their work from the time it is sent out to the time it will be returned.