Getting merit just because an artwork is incredibly done is not an issue. In fact, they deserved to be recognized and praised by others who were blown away by their work, especially for an artwork that required the integration of a brand and a roobet mascot. It's no problem
Exactly the artist who has put in efforts for that artwork only needs appreciation for them and it could be any format like merit or simply by saying it in words.The next big thing come if they win the competition then it's immense joy for them.So we need to appreciate the good works in any manner we like.