The Winners

WBF Finland 2026 – Celebrating Creativity & Talent!

What an amazing three days in Helsinki! WBF Finland 2026 has come to an end, leaving behind unforgettable moments, inspiring performances and incredible artistic creations.

From October 16–18, 2026, the World Bodypainting Festival returned to the I Love Me Expo at Messukeskus Helsinki, bringing together talented artists from different nationalities.

The event kicked off with an inspiring Masterclass Day, followed by two exciting competition days featuring the World Award in Creative Make-Up and four Nordic Awards in Bodypainting, Facepainting, Fashion Editorial Make-Up and Red Carpet Make-Up.

Photos by TOBIAS SPRANGER & BALAOIU ANDREEA

World Award: Creative Make-up

Theme: Electric Runway Statement

Bold, futuristic and full of energy! Under the theme “Electric Runway Statement,” artists combined high-fashion runway aesthetics with striking colours, innovative techniques and electrifying creativity.The competition brought spectacular looks to the stage, showcasing outstanding talent and artistic vision.

Congratulations to our winners and the new World Champion in Creative Make-Up!

Nordic Award: Bodypainting - Open Category

Theme: Dangerous Hobbies

Thrilling, daring and full of adrenaline! Under the theme “Dangerous Hobbies,” artists transformed the human body into a canvas of adventure, risk and excitement. From extreme sports to unconventional activities, the competition brought spectacular creations to life, showcasing imagination, technical skill and artistic expression.

Congratulations to all our winners and their outstanding bodypainting creations!

Nordic Award: Fashion Editorial Make-up

Theme: Darkest Desires

Mysterious, dramatic and full of allure! Under the theme “Darkest Desires,” artists explored the darker side of beauty, combining high-fashion aesthetics with bold creativity and captivating storytelling. From striking editorial looks to imaginative interpretations of hidden desires, the competition showcased exceptional artistry, originality and creative vision.

Congratulations to all our winners and their outstanding make-up creations!

Nordic Award: Facepainting

Theme: Masks of Emotions

Expressive, powerful and full of emotion! Under the theme “Masks of Emotions,” artists transformed faces into captivating works of art, revealing hidden feelings, inner worlds and the many layers of human emotion. From vibrant expressions to deeply moving designs, the competition showcased incredible creativity, technical skill and artistic storytelling.

Congratulations to all our winners and their outstanding facepainting creations!

Nordic Award: Red Carpet Make-Up

Theme: Trends from the 2020s to Today

Glamorous, elegant and ready for the spotlight! Inspired by beauty trends from the 2020s to today, artists created stunning red carpet looks, combining modern make-up techniques with timeless elegance and contemporary glamour. From flawless beauty looks to bold, trendsetting statements, the competition showcased exceptional precision, creativity and professional artistry.

Congratulations to all our winners and their outstanding make-up creations!