SCORING & JUDGING CRITERIA
At RAA, entries are judged using a clear and consistent scoring system designed to fairly measure artistic skill, technical execution, and overall presentation. Our goal is to provide meaningful, constructive feedback while ensuring every artist feels respected and motivated.
Merit 74 & below | Bronze 75 - 79 | Silver 80 - 84 | Gold 85 - 89 | Platinum 90 - 94 | Diamond 95 - 100
Example of the bonus digital awards and badges - Winners will have any physical awards or prizes posted to them!
LEVEL OF ENTRY
Entries are further grouped by artist experience level so judging expectations are fair.
Entry Level
For artists developing core skills. Works should show intent and foundational technique, without requiring professional or prototype execution.
Open Level
For artists with consistent and refined technical execution. Often associated with small business operations and a professional online presence.
Virtuoso Level
For highly advanced or prototype-level artists with highly refined technique and presentation.
Artists should select the level that best reflects their current skill and experience.
*View Rules & Regulations for more information
JUDGING CRITERIA
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Presentation Categories
(Preemie/Newborn, Infant, Toddler/Child)
Skin Tone
- Overall colour is appropriate and realistic for the presented age
- Balanced undertones
- Natural variation across the body
Skin Detail
- Realistic mottling and surface detail
- Depth and layering
- Subtle tonal variation appropriate for age
Veining & Creases
- Veins are placed realistically and blended softly
- Creases shaded naturally without harsh lines
- Colour within creases appears believable and well integrated
Blushing & Blending
- Age-appropriate blushing
- Even and natural paint application on fingers, toes, palms, and soles
- Smooth transitions between colours
- Clean, consistent technique throughout
Hair & Brows
- Rooted hair free from visible plugs or clumping
- Painted hair with fine, realistic strokes
- Natural flow, crown/swirl placement
- Soft, realistic hairline
- Detailed and appropriately placed brows
- If bald, scalp detailing, such as subtle veining or mottling, is considered
Eye / Eye Area
- Open eyes: correct fit, no visible glue, appropriate size and colour
- Closed eyes: defined creases, realistic shading and detail
- Eyelashes are appropriately placed and realistic in length and density
Overall Presentation
- Cohesive styling and age representation
- Appropriate clothing and accessories
- Clear and believable presentation of the intended age
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Specialty Categories
(Fantasy / Alternate / Any Style Categories)
Skin Tone & Detail
- Colour and detailing appropriate to the chosen theme or concept
- Depth, layering, and clean technique
- Effective use of colour to support the style
Veining & Creases
- Shading and structure appropriate to the character or theme
- Blended and natural-looking transitions (where realism applies)
Blushing & Blending
- Even, controlled colour application
- Blending suited to the chosen aesthetic
- Smooth transitions without harsh lines
Hair & Brows
- Quality rooting or painting
- Cohesive colour choice
- Hairline and brow detail appropriate to the concept
- Bald entries assessed on scalp detailing and finish
Eye / Eye Area
- Eye fit and finish are appropriate to the style
- Clean application with no visible glue
- Eyelids and lashes suited to the theme
Originality and/or Special Features
- Creative elements such as modifications, hyperrealism, special effects, themed styling, or highly original concepts executed well
- Features (e.g. horns, fangs, elf ears, special effects) are cleanly applied and cohesive
- For realistic entries within this category, thoughtful artistic interpretation and distinctive styling may be considered
Overall Presentation
- Strong cohesion between concept, styling, and execution
- Balanced visual impact
- Clear artistic intention
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JUDGES AWARDS
{QUALIFYING ROUNDS}
All entries are considered for Judges Awards. Winners are determined using relevant scoring areas with judge confirmation where needed.
Judges' Awards include:
- Best Painted Hair
Awarded to the reborn showing the highest quality painted hair, with realistic depth, direction, texture, and age-appropriate detail. This award recognises strong technical skill in painted hair. - Best Rooted Hair
Awarded to the reborn with the most realistic and well-executed rooted hair. This includes hair density, placement, direction, and how well the hair suits the reborn’s presentation. - Most Creative
Awarded to the reborn with the most original and imaginative idea. This award focuses on creativity, concept, and artistic interpretation rather than technical perfection alone. - Best Silicone
Awarded to the most exceptionally presented silicone reborn, recognising excellence in silicone painting, realism, finish, seam management, and overall presentation of the medium. - Best Presentation
Awarded to the reborn with the strongest overall visual presentation. This includes styling, posing, lighting, and photography working together to support realism or storytelling. - Rising Star (Entry Level only)
Awarded to an Entry Level artist who shows strong potential, developing skill, and promise in the reborn artistry. - Overall Artistry
Awarded to the artist whose entry shows the highest level of overall reborn artistry. This award recognises consistency, skill, and quality across all areas of reborn creation.
* Both the relevant element score and the total score may be considered in conjunction with the judges’ selections when determining the winner, if required.
- Best Painted Hair