Calling all Painters

The Battle is Back!

The competition that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of surface preparation is back, with a new twist. Welcome to Battle of the Boards 4: Hex Edition.


This year, we’re mailing each contestant a metal hexagon panel, designed to not only showcase your paintwork but also become part of a larger installation. When the panels return, they’ll come together like puzzle pieces to form a wall of art - a true reflection of the custom community, connected by creativity.

About the contest

Battle of the Boards is a custom paint competition that brings together some of the most skilled and imaginative artists in the refinishing world. Created to celebrate craftsmanship and push the boundaries of creativity, it has quickly become a standout event in the custom paint and collision repair community.



Now in its fourth year, Battle of the Boards continues to grow - drawing attention from artists, enthusiasts, manufacturers, and media across the industry. The competition provides a national platform for painters to showcase their talent, gain exposure, and connect with a community that shares their passion for artistry and surface perfection.

Battle of the Boards 4: Hex Edition

The Challenge
Transform your metal hexagon into a work of art using any style, design, or inspiration. Show off your skills, push your creativity, and let your craftsmanship shine.
The Grand Prize
The winner receives two tickets to the 2025 SEMA Show, plus a travel stipend toward hotel and airfare. Not planning on going to SEMA? No problem -the winner can choose to take the cash value of the prize instead.
Important Dates
Registration Opens: July 18th Deadline for INDASA to Receive Completed Panel: September 15th Winning Hexagon: Unveiled at SEMA
Ready to Battle?
Sign up, receive your hexagon, and start creating. Let’s see what you’ve got.

Get Involved

Battle of the Boards 2025

For 2025, we’re bringing Battle of the Boards to the biggest stage in the industry - SEMA. While we won’t be hosting an open house at the INDASA Academy this year, we’re taking the competition to Las Vegas for a special edition.

The top finalists will have their panels showcased at our SEMA booth, where attendees will have the chance to vote for their SEMA Favorite. The winner of this special recognition will be announced during our Happy Hour event at the booth, an exclusive moment to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and community. 

 

 

 

Battle Categories

Battle of the Boards is more than a competition, it's a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the passion that drives our industry. Each entry reflects the artist’s unique style, skill, and attention to detail. For 2025, we will recognize two standout winners:

Grand Prize Winner
Selected by our panel of judges, this artist will be chosen based on overall execution - including layout, surface prep, finish quality, creativity, use of color, and application techniques. This winner will receive two tickets to the 2025 SEMA Show and a travel stipend
SEMA Favorite
Voted on by attendees at our SEMA booth, the SEMA Favorite will be chosen from the top finalists whose work will be on display. The winner will be announced during our booth Happy Hour event. While we’re not breaking entries into individual categories this year, entries may still feature airbrush, hand brush work, and other artistic techniques, all of which will be considered as part of the judging process for the Grand Prize.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at marketingusa@indasausa.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What happens next?
The first 50 accepted applicants will receive: - A blank metal hexagon panel - A product pack to get started - A prepaid return label for easy submission These hex panels are designed to puzzle together into a large collaborative art wall, so your work becomes part of something bigger.
What are the design rules?
Create freely — just keep it respectful. Designs must not include: - Nudity - Foul language - Hate speech or offensive/inappropriate content Outside of that, the artistic direction is up to you!
Do I have to use specific products?
No. You’re welcome to use any paint or materials you prefer. The use of specific brands will not influence judging in any way.
When are the hex panels due back?
All completed panels must be returned no later than September 15, 2025. Submissions become the property of INDASA USA and will not be returned. INDASA is not responsible for the cost of creating your piece or for any shipping loss/damage. All judging decisions are final!