Creative Lash Art

THE WORLD OF OZ REIMAGINED

Creative lash art is applying eyelash extensions in unique and innovative ways, showcasing artistic skills, imagination, and ability to think outside the box. It involves going beyond traditional lash extension techniques to create captivating and unconventional designs that push the boundaries of what is considered typical or expected. Creative lash art lets us explore real life themes with exaggeration and artistic expression.

Creative or Fantasy Lash Art refers to a style that incorporates imaginative and whimsical elements inspired by fantasy themes. It involves creating unique and creative lash designs that embrace fantastical elements. The designs in fantasy lash art often draw inspiration from mythical creatures, fairy tales, magical landscapes, or other outside the box elements.

We want to see visionary lash artistry that makes people stop and stare. Think beyond beauty and step into transformation - where fantasy, identity, and illusion collide. Embrace drama, storytelling, bold statements, and high-concept looks inspired by a wicked reimagining of Oz. Lashes that embody powerful characters, surreal energy, or a world of your own creation, this is your moment to bring something truly spellbinding to life.

This year, we invite you into a world of illusion, transformation, and untold stories with our theme:

SOMETHING WICKED

The World of OZ Reimagined

Inspired by the deeper layers of Oz, this theme moves beyond the familiar and into a space where identity, power, and perception collide. Think less fairytale, more reimagined fantasy - where characters are complex, beauty has an edge, and every look tells a story. From dark glamour and surreal interpretations to symbolic, character-driven artistry, your set should feel like it belongs in a world where nothing is quite what it seems.

Create with intention, push creative boundaries, and bring your own version of “wicked” to life. This category is judged on creativity, execution, originality, and storytelling. The more immersive and thought-provoking, the better.

OZ INSPIRATION

Characters of Oz: Icons Reimagined

Behind every unforgettable world is a cast of characters that bring it to life. In the World of Oz, identity is everything, each figure represents more than just a look, but a deeper story of power, vulnerability, illusion, and transformation. From the shadows of wickedness to the glow of goodness, these characters are layered, symbolic, and endlessly open to interpretation.

This is your opportunity to step into the role of creator and reimagine the icons of Oz through your own lens. Push beyond the obvious. Distort, elevate, and reinvent. Turn familiar figures into something unexpected, editorial, and entirely your own.

Let your lash designs be inspired by the characters who define the world of Oz:

The Wicked Witch – rebellion, darkness, and misunderstood power
Glinda the Good – light, femininity, softness, and divine presence
The Scarecrow – the search for intelligence, fragility, and transformation
The Tin Man – emotion, emptiness, and the desire to feel
The Cowardly Lion – courage, fear, and hidden strength
The Wizard – illusion, control, and the man behind the curtain

These characters were never just characters, they were reflections of the human experience.

1/2

1/3

Symbols of Oz: Meaning in Every Detail

In the World of Oz, it’s the symbols that carry the story. Small details hold immense power, guiding journeys, revealing truths, and anchoring the magic within something tangible. These aren’t just visual elements, they are icons of transformation, direction, illusion, and identity.

From the sparkle of a slipper to the path beneath your feet, each symbol represents something deeper. This is your opportunity to take the familiar and reimagine it through a high-fashion, editorial lens. Abstract it, distort it, elevate it and turn symbolic elements into striking visual statements through your lash design.

Let your lash designs be inspired by the symbols that define the world of Oz:

Ruby Slippers – power, destiny, and the ability to return home
The Yellow Brick Road – journey, direction, and the path to self-discovery
Emerald City – illusion, status, glamour, and hidden truth
The Tornado – chaos, change, and the beginning of transformation
The Poppy Field – temptation, distraction, and surrender
The Crystal Ball – foresight, mystery, and unseen forces

The Duality of Oz: Light vs Wicked

In the World of Oz, nothing is ever as simple as good or bad. Beneath the surface of every character, every moment, and every decision lies contrast of light and shadow, beauty and distortion, truth and illusion. What appears good may not be pure. What is seen as wicked may hold power, depth, and truth.

This is where creativity lives... in the tension between opposites. This concept invites you to explore contrast in its most striking form. Soft against sharp. Light against dark. Control against chaos. Symmetry against disruption. Your lash design should embody duality, where two opposing forces exist within the same visual story.

Let your lash designs be inspired by the contrasts that shape the world of Oz:

Good vs Wicked – innocence against power, light against shadow
Beauty vs Distortion – perfection challenged by the unexpected
Control vs Chaos – structure breaking into freedom
Illusion vs Truth – what is seen versus what is real
Strength vs Vulnerability – power layered with emotion

In Oz, the most powerful stories are not one-sided they exist in the space between.

1/1

1/2

Creatures of Oz: The Untamed & Unseen

Beyond the yellow brick road and behind the curtain lies a world that is wild, unpredictable, and alive with creatures that defy logic. In Oz, not everything is human there are beings that fly, crawl, transform, and exist somewhere between fantasy and fear. These creatures add depth, danger, and intrigue to a world that is anything but ordinary.

This is your opportunity to explore the untamed side of Oz. Push into texture, movement, and exaggeration. Think beyond beauty into something instinctive, surreal, and otherworldly. Your lash design can become a creature in itself, or be inspired by one, something that feels alive, expressive, and impossible to ignore.

Let your lash designs be inspired by the creatures that roam the world of Oz:

Flying Monkeys – chaos, mischief, control, and dark energy
Enchanted Animals – transformation, intelligence, and hidden identity
Winged Beings – freedom, elevation, and fantasy
Hybrid Creatures – part human, part something else entirely
Shadow Figures – mystery, fear, and the unknown

These creatures add movement and magic to OZ.

CREATE WITH RESPECT

When discussing the intersection of art, cultural appropriation, and personal expression, it is important to strike a balance between individual creativity and cultural sensitivity.

Art is undoubtedly subjective and personal, allowing individuals to express their unique perspectives and emotions. However, it is crucial to be mindful of cultural appropriation, which refers to the adoption or borrowing of elements from another culture without understanding or respecting its significance.

In the context of a lash competition or any artistic endeavor, it is important to approach cultural themes with respect and sensitivity.

Consider researching and understanding the cultural origins and meanings behind the elements you wish to incorporate. This helps ensure that your artistic expression is informed and respectful rather than appropriative.

Recognise that cultural symbols and practices hold deep significance to the communities they belong to. It's essential to avoid using them in a superficial or exploitative manner that may perpetuate stereotypes or diminish their cultural importance.

Engaging in dialogue with individuals from the culture you wish to draw inspiration from can provide valuable insights and perspectives. Listen to their perspectives, seek their guidance, and be open to feedback. This not only demonstrates respect but also helps to avoid causing unintentional offense.

Remember that art can be a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity when approached with cultural sensitivity. You can focus on creating original, inclusive designs that reflect your own unique perspective while honouring and acknowledging the cultural origins and symbols you incorporate.

JUDGING CRITERIA

CREATIVE LASH ART

First Impression

The complete look of the set and suitability of the model.

Photography

Well lit images of model, clear visibility of the lashes. No stray lashes or clutter in background.

Mapping and Styling

Map should compliment the model’s eye shape and be suitable to their face.

Coverage

Good coverage based on the map/design and model. All inner and outer corners must be covered with a suitable length.

Isolation

No visible stickies, or clumps of extensions.

Direction

Lashes are placed in the correct direction for the mapping. Stylised direction and symmetry between eyes.

Attachment

Extensions must be adhered correctly to the natural lash with no lifting at the base.

Lash Line

Lash line must be clean with no extensions touching or pulling at the skin. Extensions are the correct distance from the lash line.

Creativity and Design

Representation of the theme. Suitability of design. Colours used in complimentary combinations. Original thought.

Lower Lashes

Creative application or styling of the lower lashes. Extensions and/or decals are attached safely.

Makeup

Makeup is cleaning applied to accentuate the design and not distract from the set. No foundation on the lashes.

Hair Style, Head Piece and Accessories

Creative use of hair styling and accessories to convey the theme.

Costume

Complexity of the costume, artistic body artwork and/or applied decorations to complete the look.

Model Comfort

No signs of irritation present. No low hanging lashes. No red or watery eyes.

Written Submission

Submitted (.pdf or .doc file) with the thought process behind the design, how it fits the theme. Explained what mapping, styling and lashes were used to create the look.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

CREATIVE LASH ART CATEGORY

Before photo with eyes closed from behind the models head and gel pads applied to see the condition of natural lashes
Before photo with eyes open from the front while model seated to see the eye shape and the whole face
After photo with eyes closed from behind the models head without gel pads. NO MAKEUP, no Photoshop/ Facetune
After photo with eyes open looking straight photo of the whole face to see the symmetry of the set. NO MAKE UP, Photoshop/ Facetune
Image of an isolated lash. NO MAKEUP, no Photoshop/ Facetune
After photo of left eye with model looking up. Makeup allowed.
After photo of right eye with the model looking up. Makeup allowed.
After photo of full face. Makeup allowed.
After photo of half body. Makeup allowed.
Your favourite photos to show your work at its best. 2-4 images. These can be edited.

Write 2-3 paragraphs about your entry explaining the story behind your design.

Optional: You can also submit a short video explaining your design and creative process.

MAKEUP AND PHOTOGRAPHY

Go ahead! The use of a professional makeup artist and photographer can greatly enhance the overall presentation and impact of the lash art. So utilise the expertise of the professionals to elevate your competition entry. Create stunning visuals that make a lasting impression and that lift the overall experience for both judges and spectators.

The lash work MUST BE YOUR OWN but collaborating with a skilled makeup artist allows for the creation of a cohesive and harmonious look, where the lashes are beautifully complemented by expertly applied makeup. The makeup artist can accentuate the model's features, ensure flawless skin, and create a captivating overall aesthetic that highlights the lash design.

The collaboration between the lash artist, makeup artist, and photographer creates a cohesive and visually impactful package that enhances the artistic vision and storytelling of the lash design. Be sure to credit your MUA and Photographer post submission.

Of course this is not necessary to compete in the category. You can DIY makeup and get excellent photo results using your phone.

IMPORTANT: If you choose to use other Creatives and Models they all need to sign the Media Release Form to allow their work to be used in the competition and for marketing purposes ongoing. This is compulsory. Download the forms here.