The Abyss FX Showdown application

Infinity Con has a long history with practical FX and we are excited to introduce The Abyss FX Showdown! Sponsored by the Stan Winston School of Character Arts, who is giving some great prizes! We are looking for 5, well rounded special fx creators, self taught or formerly trained can apply. The event will take place on the Main Stage at 3PM on Sunday, July 12th, 2026

Deadline for applications is June 21st, 2026. Contestants will be chosen by or before June 24th, 2026.

We are not looking for perfection, we are looking for creators, ready to take on a challenge, and ready to create and learn through this experience.

There is no cost to enter but the 5 who are chosen will must purchase a VIP, weekend, or Sunday pass to Infinity Con Tallahassee, 2026, to compete. 

Prizes: by the Stan Winston School of Character Arts & Infinity Con

The top 3 will get one of these prizes:

First Place (Grand Prize)

The Abyss Cup (Provided by Infinity Con)

An all-access 1 year subscription to Stan Winston School, includes unlimited access to our Course library by The Masters of FX, with new courses added every month. Also includes exclusive access Stan Winston Studio Behind-the-Scenes Documentary stream.

Second Place
A 3 Month subscription to Stan Winston School, including full access to the entire Course library. Also, exclusive access Stan Winston Studio Behind-the-Scenes Documentary stream.
 
Third Place
A 1 Month subscription to Stan Winston School, including full access to the entire Course library. Also, exclusive access Stan Winston Studio Behind-the-Scenes Documentary stream.

The Abyss FX Showdown Terms and Conditions

No fees to apply but a VIP, weekend or saturday pass to Infinity Con Tallahassee 2026 is required. 

By entering The Abyss FX Showdown, all participants agree to the following terms and conditions:

1.  Eligibility: Participants of all ages are welcome. Those under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian’s permission to participate.
2. Registration: All entries must be submitted through the official entry form prior to the deadline.
   Only 5 will be chosen to compete.
   NO Walk-on registrations will be available..
3. Judging Criteria- Contestants will be judged on the following:
   
   • Accuracy and attention to detail
   • Originality and creativity
   • Effort and overall impression
4. Conduct: All participants must behave respectfully and professionally to fellow cosplayers, staff, judges, and attendees.
   Harassment or misconduct will result in disqualification and possible removal from the event.
   The organizers reserve the right to refuse or remove any entry that violates these guidelines.
5. Media Release: By entering the contest, you grant permission for photos and videos of you and your costume to be taken and used for promotional purposes by the event. We will potentially use video/photos provided by the chosen to announce the contestants.
6. Disclaimers: The contest organizers are not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen items.
   Contest rules are subject to change. Updates will be communicated via official event channels.
   All judge decisions are final.
7.  Injury Waiver & Disclaimer: By entering and participating in this contest, you acknowledge that participation involves physical activity and the potential for accidental injury.
   You voluntarily assume full responsibility for any risk of personal injury, property damage, or loss, whether foreseeable or not, that may occur before, during, or after the contest.
   You agree to hold harmless the event organizers, staff, venue, sponsors, and affiliates from any and all liability for any claims, demands, or damages resulting from your participation.
   If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must acknowledge and accept this waiver on your behalf.
8. Agreement: Submission of your entry form confirms you have read, understood, and agree to abide by these terms and conditions The Abyss FX Showdown at Infinity Con Tallahassee, 2026