FAQ
Excuse me, I have a question...
Here you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions for the RenderMan Art Challenge
- Sooo ... Is it ok to use generative AI?
Yes, but only for initial concept art. There's a gray area, where texturing plugins are already using AI, so that's also ok. In the end, the final artwork must be your own creation. Use your better judgement to figure out where this line is drawn to honor the art challenge's spirit of pushing your storytelling and computer graphics knowledge to new heights.
- Can I add 3D models?
Yes, you can add new geometry, but only as support (added value). You must use the supplied models for the main storytelling. For example, you can add characters and environment details such as lamps, garbage, rubble, props, clouds, fog, vines, grass, etc... You need to work within the supplied models for the main storytelling.
- Is it ok if I move or distort objects, add a camera, or creatively change the scene?
Yes. You can move objects however you want, this includes translate, rotate and scale. You can also create new assets, cameras, and get creative with the scene.
- I'd like to change topology or normals. Is that ok?
Yes, you're welcome to fix or modify geometry.
- Can I use previous Art Challenge assets?
No. We try to keep the aesthetic identity of each challenge distinct.
- I heard there's a Mari plugin?
That's right, you can work with Pixar Surface straight from Mari. To install it, use the main RenderMan installer and simply click on "Show All" during the installation process. You can learn more about RenderMan for Mari in our docs:
Learn More - Do I have to use SpeedTree?
You're welcome to use your own vegetation, but our collaboration with SpeedTree presents a great opportunity to try a fully working version of the leading vegetation creation tool for the duration of the challenge.
Coming Soon! - Is creating a background ok?
Yes, you can use an original image, photograph or a matte painting for your background. If you are a finalist, you will need to provide permission to your background image and/or files when submitting your projects.
- How about adding fur, hair or Xgen?
Yes, you can groom hair in your favorite grooming software package.
- Is it ok to create custom plugins or shaders?
Yes. The plugin or shader needs to be submitted at the end of the challenge in order to reproduce the image as submitted.
- How about using a previous version of RenderMan?
No. You can only use RenderMan 26.
- I'd like to submit multiple images, is that doable?
No. One image per submission. You are welcome to submit multiple entries for different art directions if you feel that doing so will be beneficial to your artistic choices.
- Is it ok to use other RenderMan compliant renderers?
No. Only official Pixar RenderMan plugins. This includes the RenderMan plugins for Maya, Blender, Houdini, and Katana.
- Can I add particles, volumes, liquids, or other environmental effects?
Yes. Make things foggy, explode things, or add fairy dust, it's all up to you!
- Is it ok to use any image or texture from online sources?
Most images that come up in search engines have a license. We encourage you to read and understand the license for all images used in order to avoid future issues with the copyright holder. Good ways to avoid license issues are: using reputable CG texture sources such as Poly Haven, or images with appropriate creative common licenses. Using texturing tools such as substance is also a great way to make sure you're not running into copyright trouble. The best way to avoid any copyright issues is to use your own images of course.
- Will I need to submit my scene for review?
Yes. A full project is needed to be eligible to win. When the Art Challenge closes, Pixar will choose between 10-20 semifinalists, which will be provided a BOX folder for submission of their projects.
- Can I post external links for my final image submission?
No. Final submissions need to be attached. WIP posts with external links are ok.
"Unlike any challenge before!"
- Vishwesh Taskar - Winner of "The Iconoclasts" RenderMan Art Challenge.
Elio © Disney/Pixar
