To Show or not to Show?

I've attended the Chicago show a few times. Had a great experience each time. Seen some truly awesome painting by the true Masters. Came away both inspired & frustrated because I knew my talent was no where near most of these painters.

Regards, Rick

I've been to the Long Island show several times and taken a couple awards. One of the main differences from the typical model contest is the artists' names are displayed. It is inspirational to attend one of these better events. The top shows will bring artists from all over the world. The top dog of these events, World Expo, is coming to Boston this summer. Might be worth the trip, even from WEstern Canada.
Here's their site: http://www.boston2005.com/

I highly recommend attending. Figure modeling is so much different than building kits.

I agree with Al, it's a different mindset in that your name is attached to the model for everyone to see. The judges are also (almost always) masters, and are very fair 99% of the time.

I've competed at the MFCA in Valley Forge, PA, Long Island Historical in NY, and the NJHMA show in New Jersey. Although I consider my work to be good, and although I've taken a few awards myself, you will be amazed at the artistry of some of these people. I have never attended a show where I wasn't blown away by the quality of the work. The vast majority, especially in the Advanced and Master's categories, are building on a higher plane. It's truly humbling and inspirational at the same time.

That being said, don't be intimidated, they are, without a doubt, some of the nicest people I've ever met, and almost every show has lectures and tech sessions presented by some master painter or sculptor. Attending an event is very educational, fun, and is almost as enjoyable as actually finishing a figure!!

Jeff

Wow, it sounds as though everyone's experiences have been postive. I have been looking at the Boston World Expo site for a year now, but I'm afraid that one just won't work out for me this year, so SCAHMS will "have to do". I will plan on being amazed, and will pack a camera. What are the rules for taking pictures at these events? Is this something organizers try to discourage?

Photo Bans? Absolutely not...bring a camera. I will stress however, that ALL modelers get nervous when someone is 2 inches from their masterpiece with a 200mm lens, so exercise caution, watch for hanging lens caps, dangling camera straps, etc.

In Canada about 10 years ago, I watched a photographer with two cameras around his neck lean over to shoot a model, and the second camera fell onto a model that was at the front of the table, totalling it. That's the only thing you have to worry about.

PS: The photographer ended up taking the modeler shopping in the vendor area, and it cost him dearly...lol.

Jeff

If the model deserves it, don't be afraid to let your camera make some adjustments.

Isn't there a saying that the camera adds 15 pounds?