IPMS show dilemma, now with some event pics

[Twokidsnosleep]

I am considering bringing this diorama to IPMS Vancouver fall show this weekend since it seems to get a lot of reaction from people.
But I am torn as:
I am not an IPMS member...nor do I want to be
I have never brought a model to a show to be judged
I would hate for the diorama to get damaged by some moron or even stolen
I don't know what to expect at a model show, how to enter, what category....that kind of malarkey

So my dilemma is do I just go and check everything out vs going with intent to enter the diorama
Any thoughts??? Need some input from some show veterans

[Fridgy]

I have no idea mate, but I think you should personally
It would be great to see your work getting out to a wider audience

[sheppsea]

I would definitely try to bring it along - I understand your concerns though as I would be the same, I just try to remember the first time is always the worst time

Is there anyway you can get in touch with the organisers?

[digger303]

Go for it... You go you must young Padawan

[ElCapitan]

I'm sure they wouldn't turn you away, but yeah I would try to check with the organisers first if possible. Looks great, I reckon they would love to see it.

[Twokidsnosleep]

Well thanks for the help guys
The theme is South East Asia Post War...so maybe not the best time for a SciFi Dio, though I am sure there will be other categories.
I will likely do a check it out and ask some questions before I bring My Precious in for viewing
Thanks again

[Tomcat64]

I can't add anything to what the other guys have suggested about the show but it's great to see this again!

It's a stunning piece of work buddy and deserves to be shown widely, and your concerns over its safety are fully justified!

[Twokidsnosleep]

I can't add anything to what the other guys have suggested about the show but it's great to see this again!

It's a stunning piece of work buddy and deserves to be shown widely, and your concerns over its safety are fully justified!

Thanks man
I had a sales rep drool over it in the display case in my private office last month
That is why I thought to show it, but also the paranoid notions of damage or theft
I am going to check the facility out on the weekend and have a look at security of the location and such then maybe next year bring an entry
Will probably buy some more kits if I find a deal to two

[RossiM1]

Hi Scott
Think you should be re assured that at every show I have ever been to and displayed my models at there has never been an issue, and because the majority of people attending the shows are modellers themselves, and are respectful of fellow modellers works, we use a simple sign for the benefit of the non modelling fraternity which simply says PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH THE MODELS, go and have have a good time Scott and like others have said your work deserves a wider audience.
ATB
Gary

[Twokidsnosleep]

Hi Scott
Think you should be re assured that at every show I have ever been to and displayed my models at there has never been an issue, and because the majority of people attending the shows are modellers themselves, and are respectful of fellow modellers works, we use a simple sign for the benefit of the non modelling fraternity which simply says PLEASE DO NOT TOUCH THE MODELS, go and have have a good time Scott and like others have said your work deserves a wider audience.
ATB
Gary

Thanks Gary, kind words and I appreciate it

[Twokidsnosleep]

Oh I have it a story for y'all
But first some photos, or a least a small slice of photos I took of stuff that interested me or kits I have to build
The calibre of modelling talent is amazing and all the builds impeccable.....how could you possible judge them???
Anyhow some pics
F105 Kinetic 1/48....got this kit, this is beautifully built with amazing camo


Awesome 1/48 Phantom..this one is for you GUY! Don't recognize the kit maker


Look at this Lancaster, it is huge and beautiful. I had a $10 1/72 Airfix Lanc kit in my hands in the sales rooom, but didn't pull the trigger must be loosing it


Now these 1/48 Kinetic Hornets are for Fridgy, thought of you mate as I was looking at them







Very skillfully got my gd thumb in that last photo...truly a pro I am

[Twokidsnosleep]

Shifting subjects to cars and space stuff...sorry Lysus, the Gundam table was of no interest to me, but it was packed with builds and people.

F1 cars:
1/12 Tamiya, both gorgeous


1/20 Tamiya Lotus


Smaller 1/24 Revell Williams....I have this kit and now see it will take some work to get it up to Tamiya level


Now to some space stuff:
Space 2001 Eagle


Star Trek Lantree....I think I have seen a good Enterprise from a certain ISM guy

[Stokesy44]

Great pics.

Love the Lanc and the first F18. Stunning. Did you get to display that amazing Dagobah dio? Man I really hope so.

[Twokidsnosleep]

Great pics.

Love the Lanc and the first F18. Stunning. Did you get to display that amazing Dagobah dio? Man I really hope so.

No I didn't display and glad I didn't...let me explain

So as I was walking around the eight or so long tables looking at builds and taking a few pics, the judges were out judging them. It was extremely interesting to listen to these men and women pick apart amazing models.
The worst comment I heard was a guy sticking a mirror under a figures dress and complaining it wasnt painted underneath
WTF ??!!
Another guy complained the invasion stripes on a Spit were "too perfect as they were really hastily put on before d-day so would not be that perfect bla blah blah" history lesson from the expert.

I would think that it would be more professional to close the display hall for an hour and judge in private.
So that turned me off.

Then I was searching for a spot where I would put the x-wing dio and found this category

It would fit perfectly here and I looked at the three meger small figures on bases (really a vignette not a dio) and thought arrogantly how I would have won.
Then I wandered over to the helicopter section and looked at the two little birds and again arrogantly thought my FAA Sea King would have kicked butt.
And then I stopped in my tracks.
Thought about the judges words and the words of my balloon headed mind.

Modelling isn't for taking home hardware for me. Modelling is fun and relaxing, an escape from reality and stress. WTH do I want with a pewter medal?? Seriously. People have spent hundreds and hundreds of hours on their little works of art.
I thought of a thread with Mike Cohen where he said that competition is one of humankind's worst traits
I stood there in the isle with my jaw dropped to the floor, thinking maybe, perhaps, modelling means a little bit more

Getting a bit philosophical, but I want to show Dagobah to show Dagobah and what I made, not to win something for my ego.
I want to share what and how I made it with some buds and the battle through putting it together.
Anyhow, I am happy I went, saw some great models, didn't spend a cent on junk I didn't need and learned a bit about myself


Bonus points if you got the Grinch reference.....how could you not

[Stokesy44]

No I didn't display and glad I didn't...let me explain

So as I was walking around the eight or so long tables looking at builds and taking a few pics, the judges were out judging them. It was extremely interesting to listen to these men and women pick apart amazing models.
The worst comment I heard was a guy sticking a mirror under a figures dress and complaining it wasnt painted underneath
WTF ??!!
Another guy complained the invasion stripes on a Spit were "too perfect" as they were really hastily put on before d-day so would not be that perfect bla blah blah

I would think that it would be more professional to close the display hall for an hour and judge in private.
So that turned me off.

Then I was searching for a spot where I would put the x-wing dio and found this category

It would fit perfectly here and I looked at the three meger small figures on bases (really a vignette not a dio) and thought arrogantly how I would have won.
Then I wandered over to the helicopter section and looked at the two little birds and again arrogantly thought my FAA Sea King would have kicked butt.
And then I stopped in my tracks.
Thought about the judges words and the words of my balloon headed mind.

Modelling isn't for taking home hardware for me. Modelling is fun and relaxing, an escape from reality and stress. WTH do I want with a pewter medal?? Seriously. People have spent hundreds and hundreds of hours on their little works of art.
I thought of a thread with Mike Cohen where he said that competition is one of humankind's worst traits
I stood there in the isle with my head dropped to the floor, thinking maybe perhaps, modelling means a little bit more

Getting a bit philosophical, but I want to show Dagobah to show Dagobah and what I made, not to win something for my ego.
I want to share what I made with some buds and battle through the how to's of putting it together.
Anyhow, I am happy I went, saw some great models, didn't spend a cent on junk I didn't need and learned a bit about myself


Bonus points if you got the Grinch reference.....how could you not

Forgive me but I failed on the Grinch reference. As for what you saw, sadly, I'm not surprised. As for your reaction, well that just reinforces to me that you are indeed a stand up Gentleman with a seriously dialled in compass.

Best thing I've read on here in many a month.

Kudos to you my friend.

[Twokidsnosleep]

Nicest thing anyone has said to me in a long time
mate

[Fridgy]

Ok so I may have drooled on my phone screen a little
That was a gorgeous looking hornet!

And in regards to your thoughts...
Wise you are my Canadian friend,
not many people I know would be quite as dialled in to themselves to recognise wanting to share something that you are proud of and needing no external praise for it versus just doing it for the external praise

You deserve a drink my friend

[Twokidsnosleep]

Ok so I may have drooled on my phone screen a little
That was a gorgeous looking hornet!

And in regards to your thoughts...
Wise you are my Canadian friend,
not many people I know would be quite as dialled in to themselves to recognise wanting to share something that you are proud of and needing no external praise for it versus just doing it for the external praise

You deserve a drink my friend

Awww, thanks bud
You have been a busy, uhh kangaroo??
Canadians would say busy beaver, but that doesn't translate well
New job is keeping you hopping looks like.

Funny to be alone at this IPMS show and yet I had all you lot roaming around in my head as I took photos of what I liked, but also of what some of you guys like. Except for Lysus, that damn robot table was surrounded and the judges were young and obnoxious.
Otherwise I had a really good time

[Fridgy]

Ok so I may have drooled on my phone screen a little
That was a gorgeous looking hornet!

And in regards to your thoughts...
Wise you are my Canadian friend,
not many people I know would be quite as dialled in to themselves to recognise wanting to share something that you are proud of and needing no external praise for it versus just doing it for the external praise

You deserve a drink my friend

Awww, thanks bud
You have been a busy, uhh kangaroo??
Canadians would say busy beaver, but that doesn't translate well
New job is keeping you hopping looks like.

Funny to be alone at this IPMS show and yet I had all you lot roaming around in my head as I took photos of what I liked, but also of what some of you guys like. Except for Lysus, that damn robot table was surrounded and the judges were young and obnoxious.
Otherwise I had a really good time

“As flat out as a lizard drinking”
“Busy as a blue arsed fly”
“Running around like a chicken with its head cut off”

New job is going good, a few ups and down as I try to learn the new company procedures etc but getting into the swing of things

HA! We have grown on you like some mutant fungus!

Haven’t done much modelling, every time I look at the door into the model room, life seems to bite me on the behind at the moment, steps sons birthday, buying baby stuff for the grandkid, etc etc, it just never seems to leave me time

[DrSprue]

I am considering bringing this diorama to IPMS Vancouver fall show this weekend since it seems to get a lot of reaction from people.
But I am torn as:
I am not an IPMS member...nor do I want to be
I have never brought a model to a show to be judged
I would hate for the diorama to get damaged by some moron or even stolen
I don't know what to expect at a model show, how to enter, what category....that kind of malarkey

So my dilemma is do I just go and check everything out vs going with intent to enter the diorama
Any thoughts??? Need some input from some show veterans

Wow came across this by accident perusing ISM's forum tonight looking for the matchbox thing Paul was talking about... then BANG! Cool pics from the show Scott but danngggg! That Dio you made is awesome!! I didnt get the camera thing and above lights at 1st for about a second, (yea, im slow these days) but then it hit me.. on the set!! Very cool!

I hope you had fun there at IPMS, but naaa, you got us! Your dio came in 1st place in my book!

[BobM]

That is a great build Scott. It’s a shame about your experience with the judging. I’ve only been to one small local show. I didn’t enter anything nor did I pay attention to the judging; I was just there to admire the work of others.

I am considering trying to attend to 2018 IPMS USA National Convention in Phoenix. The theme is “Build it!! Bring it!! Show it!!”. Yes, it will have a large competition, but the website claims there will be a large area dedicated to those who just want to show their work without being judged. Sounds like a cool idea and maybe something we’ll see more of.

[Twokidsnosleep]

That is a great build Scott. It’s a shame about your experience with the judging. I’ve only been to one small local show. I didn’t enter anything nor did I pay attention to the judging; I was just there to admire the work of others.

I am considering trying to attend to 2018 IPMS USA National Convention in Phoenix. The theme is “Build it!! Bring it!! Show it!!”. Yes, it will have a large competition, but the website claims there will be a large area dedicated to those who just want to show their work without being judged. Sounds like a cool idea and maybe something we’ll see more of.

Hi Bob
This was more of a scouting session for me.
I wanted to check out the venue, but also stumbled on the actual judging. I have never seen or heard that process with someone with a LED flashlight and a mirror scrutinizing a 1/72nd aircraft.
I went to see the either builds and I think that is where I will remain...an observer. Not really needing hardware. So I will stay an observer. I would love to be able to show my work without the judging do that for sure

[sheppsea]

I like the idea of making these things more of a show and tell rather than a competition, seems much more in keeping with my outlook too

In the judges' defence though, I suspect judging at that level it is probably more about finding fault with the model (or anything else being judged) rather than the good points as everything they are judging have so many good points - they need to find the discriminators in the models (if that makes any sense)

[Twokidsnosleep]

I like the idea of making these things more of a show and tell rather than a competition, seems much more in keeping with my outlook too

In the judges' defence though, I suspect judging at that level it is probably more about finding fault with the model (or anything else being judged) rather than the good points as everything they are judging have so many good points - they need to find the discriminators in the models (if that makes any sense)

No doubt my friend, I am sure it is not easy to decide amongst such well made kits looking at just the final result, they have to be harsh...just possibly in private would be better. I wonder if modellers get any feedback on what is good/ bad and where to improve?
We see that on the ISM gb and sig reveals...how can you chose a winner???
At least ISM uses other ratings to determine, not just the final result
Show and tell display would be up my alley as well

[digger303]

I like the idea of making these things more of a show and tell rather than a competition, seems much more in keeping with my outlook too

In the judges' defence though, I suspect judging at that level it is probably more about finding fault with the model (or anything else being judged) rather than the good points as everything they are judging have so many good points - they need to find the discriminators in the models (if that makes any sense)

No doubt my friend, I am sure it is not easy to decide amongst such well made kits looking at just the final result, they have to be harsh...just possibly in private would be better. I wonder if modellers get any feedback on what is good/ bad and where to improve?
We see that on the ISM gb and sig reveals...how can you chose a winner???
At least ISM uses other ratings to determine, not just the final result
Show and tell display would be up my alley as well

Very sage of you both and what you said Scott about remember Coen's comment about competition. A thought I completely agree on, most people I know compete on some level with everyone around them. Everything from the suburb they live in, the job they have and a host of other things and on those levels how they are placed in society. A lot of people don't even know they are doing it... kudos to you Scott.

[sheppsea]

No doubt my friend, I am sure it is not easy to decide amongst such well made kits looking at just the final result, they have to be harsh...just possibly in private would be better. I wonder if modellers get any feedback on what is good/ bad and where to improve?
We see that on the ISM gb and sig reveals...how can you chose a winner???
At least ISM uses other ratings to determine, not just the final result
Show and tell display would be up my alley as well

Indeed - praise in public and criticism in private

Some kind of feedback would be helpful too, but I suspect probably isn’t provided. Were the judges writing anything down while they were judging?

[Twokidsnosleep]

No doubt my friend, I am sure it is not easy to decide amongst such well made kits looking at just the final result, they have to be harsh...just possibly in private would be better. I wonder if modellers get any feedback on what is good/ bad and where to improve?
We see that on the ISM gb and sig reveals...how can you chose a winner???
At least ISM uses other ratings to determine, not just the final result
Show and tell display would be up my alley as well

Indeed - praise in public and criticism in private

Some kind of feedback would be helpful too, but I suspect probably isn’t provided. Were the judges writing anything down while they were judging?

Hmm, it was more banter amongst three or more judges pointing out what they liked and didn't like in comparison to other builds. I didn't see any writing going on, but someone must have had a notebook.
Certainly not rating an individual model on criteria, adding up its scope and then comparing scores. It was a head to head this vs that comparison. I would like to think there is some consistency and criteria for judging.....was my first exposure to seeing it first hand, so not sure how that all goes.

[digger303]

No doubt my friend, I am sure it is not easy to decide amongst such well made kits looking at just the final result, they have to be harsh...just possibly in private would be better. I wonder if modellers get any feedback on what is good/ bad and where to improve?
We see that on the ISM gb and sig reveals...how can you chose a winner???
At least ISM uses other ratings to determine, not just the final result
Show and tell display would be up my alley as well

Indeed - praise in public and criticism in private

Some kind of feedback would be helpful too, but I suspect probably isn’t provided. Were the judges writing anything down while they were judging?

Hmm, it was more banter amongst three or more judges pointing out what they liked and didn't like in comparison to other builds. I didn't see any writing going on, but someone must have had a notebook.
Certainly not rating an individual model on criteria, adding up its scope and then comparing scores. It was a head to head this vs that comparison. I would like to think there is some consistency and criteria for judging.....was my first exposure to seeing it first hand, so not sure how that all goes.

I heard on another forum ( ) some time ago that judges are very temperamental in the way they carry out their job. Varying hugely depending on individual biases and what's in as flavour of the month. So that probably just reinforces what your saying about them having no fixed format to run with. It makes it hard then build a kit to a certain standard not knowing what they are looking for. Of course that is if you want to be competitive at all. Even if you don't want to join contests, but still build to competition standard at home it would be nice to have a checklist if you will.

[Tomcat64]

Thanks for sharing the photos mate - loved that Space 1999 Eagle Transporter! I have a smaller one in the stash and have a couple of ideas about how I want to tackle it at some point in the future.

I completely agree with you about building for yourself and for your own pleasure, but that being said there are people on ISM who do enter the competitions and come away with awards for their work and I can only admire them for having the guts (and skills) to put their work forward for this level of scrutiny even if it's not for me. As it says on the banner "A haven for all types of modeller" the forum feels kind of like a social club to me where people of all skill levels and aspirations can meet and exchange views & ideas with each other.

The idea of a "show but don't judge" section sounds like a great idea though.