The Mermay 2025 3D Art Competition celebrates creativity beneath the waves. Participants are invited to submit original, ocean-inspired 3D artworks or works that blend 3D with 2.5D techniques. The competition is open exclusively to residents of Trinidad and Tobago and will be hosted online via the Showcase platform.

Eligibility
Entrants must reside in Trinidad and Tobago at the time of submission. Artists of all skill levels are welcome, from hobbyists to professionals. Each participant may submit up to 1 entry. Must be part of the Unreal 868 Community. All renders must be done in Unreal Engine.

Submission & Terms:

Theme: Artwork must be ocean-related or set underwater (e.g., reef scenes, marine life, sunken vessels).

Format: Full 3D renders, animations, or predominantly 3D with 2.5D elements

File Requirements: Submit a high-resolution render (min. 1920×1080 px) in PNG or JPEG; or provide a direct link to a publicly accessible social media post (ArtStation, Instagram, etc.).

Entry Method: Upload your render or paste your social media URL on the Showcase page, type #UnrealMerMay and that you agree to the competition terms.

Originality: All work must be solely created by the entrant. Plagiarism or copyright infringement will result in disqualification. Scene entries may use free unreal assets for help but must feature 1 hero asset made completely by participant.

Rights: By submitting, participants grant organizers permission to share and promote their artwork on social media and partner channels, with full artist attribution. Participants retain ALL Copyrights to their artwork. You can ask for help or collaborate on the Unreal Trinidad Discord Community. Ask questions and have fun.

Disqualification: Entries featuring inappropriate content or violating these terms will be removed without notice.

Categories & Awards:
Prizes will be awarded in three main categories:
Best Scene – Most immersive and detailed underwater environment.
Best Asset – Outstanding individual prop, creature, character or element.
Community Favourite – Popular vote by the Showcase community.

Judging Criteria:
Technical Skill: Modelling precision, texturing, lighting, and render quality.
Creativity & Originality: Unique concept and execution.
Composition: Effective use of space, colour harmony, and focal points.
Underwater Atmosphere: Realistic or artistically compelling depiction of aquatic elements (e.g., caustics, particulate, depth effects).
Bonus Points: Hand-modelled elements as outlined above.

Timeline
Submission Deadline: June 6, 2025
Winner Announcement: June 8, 2025

How to Enter
Visit the Showcase platform and Upload your render or paste your social media link. Put #UnrealMerMay2025 and "I agree to the terms of the competition." Celebrate the deep! We look forward to exploring your underwater visions and recognizing the best in Caribbean 3D artistry. Good luck, and Happy Mermay!