MentalFest 2026 – Evolving band backdrops
Overview
A series of 3D stage backdrops created for MentalFest 2026, a metal festival organised by MentalFest vzw.
Rather than using static band logos as conventional stage backdrops, the project explored how the visual environment could evolve throughout the performances. Each backdrop incorporated the identity of the performing band while contributing to a broader narrative around mental health, reaching out and recovery.
Across the visual environments, the scenery gradually develops from darker and more isolated imagery toward lighter and more hopeful spaces. Unreal Engine sublevels were used to build up and transition the environments over time, allowing different elements of the scenes to appear throughout the performances.
My role
I worked on the project from initial concept development through Unreal Engine production and on-site implementation.
My responsibilities included:
- Developing the overarching visual concept
- Translating individual band identities into tailored 3D environments
- Developing and assembling the environments in Unreal Engine
- Building the scenes around a sublevel-based structure to evolve the environments throughout the performances
- Integrating the visuals into the StageVFX workflow
- Project management and coordination
- On-site technical setup, testing and support during the festival
Technology
- Unreal Engine 5
- StageVFX Plugin
- Unreal Engine Sublevels
- MIDI Control
Collaboration / Credits
Collaborators
StageVFXVisual production & technical implementation
Remi PallemaertsIntern, StageVFX
Martijn VaesHelp with environment design
Client / Artist / Organisation
MentalFest vzwClient / Festival Organisation
Behind the VeilArtist
WryngdArtist
Temptation for the WeakArtist
The Five HundredArtist
Twilight ForceArtist