This page lists the painting contest rules, and a link to frequently asked questions. If you have any questions that are not answered here, contact the Painting Coordinator, Heather Blush, at: painting@historicon.org.
Entries
Painting Contest entries will only be accepted from the person who actually painted the figure. All entries must be picked up from the display area promptly after the contest ending time. All competitors are responsible for the transport of their models to and from the competition and for storing their own transport and packing materials. Each piece may only be entered in one level and one category. Each painter may only enter one piece per category for a total of four pieces - all pieces from a given painter will be entered at the same level.
Please note: Entry is at the competitor's own risk. While HMGS-East endeavors to take great care with every entry, HMGS-East does not accept responsibility for loss or damage to models. Entry into the competition gives HMGS-East the right to photograph and publish details of the models as HMGS-East sees fit. Remember the purpose of the painting competition is to showcase the efforts of our members who paint miniatures in our hobby and to have fun. You may not agree with the outcome, but please bear in mind that all judges' decisions are final and we will not enter into any discussion regarding them.
Click here to download the Painting Contest Entry Form.
Levels/Categories
There are three main levels to the competition: youth (ages 5 - 12), basic and expert. Each level is divided into four categories: single figure, unit, vehicle and diorama. A description of each is provided so that there is no confusion on model categories. The level at which a piece is entered is subject to unanimous judge approval. If the judges jointly feel that the painted figure is entered in the wrong level, the entrant will be notified as soon as possible. The piece will be moved to the appropriate level based on the combined recommendation of the judges. The judges' ruling is final. Any category with less than three entries will not be included in the judging. Ideally each category should be divided into Small (<15mm), Medium (20mm-<54mm) and Large (>54mm) - number of entries may preclude this.
Single Figure: A single figure is just that, it could be a figure from a unit for any game system. It could be a hero or a trooper, but must be one single figure, based alone.
Unit: A unit entry will be defined as any entry consisting of two or more figures for any game system that actually represents a unit or stand for the rules system the figure is played in. They may be mounted singly or together on a stand. In the case where a single figure represents a unit for a game system, that figure can only be entered in the single figure category. A unit can be described as the basic component for the game. It usually ranges from a squad to a platoon or company, depending on the game system.
Vehicle: Any single vehicle, maximum base size 6" x 6". More than one vehicle can be entered into the Unit category if it represents a unit in a game system.
Diorama: A diorama is defined as any collection of figures on a single base that is not considered a unit or stand. This is also subject to the judges' approval as many gamers make dioramas out of their command stands. A diorama can be a static or an action scene, but will have a detailed base and features that make it stand out from a typical gaming piece.
These categories are not perfect - every attempt has been made to take as many figures and units into consideration, it is simply impossible to accommodate everyone. Please understand this.
Judges
There will be a minimum of three (3) judges, no less. Judges will be selected by the convention staff based upon known integrity and knowledge of both painting and gaming. Judges will have a thorough familiarity with the contest rules and judging criteria. Judges are not allowed to enter the painting contest.
Criteria
The judges will be looking for models that are well painted and well presented. Entries will be judged in three areas: preparation, painting and finish work/detail. Preparation is an area frequently overlooked by many painters and is often the tie-breaking factor in a competition. It includes all pre-paint work that could be visible in or on the finished product such as flashing lines and conversion/joint work. Painting covers all styles, from inking to washes and dip to highlighting and shading. Since there are so many techniques available for the painter, the judges will do their best to be open mined about the techniques used, but in the end, it is all about aesthetics and the judges' call. Lastly, finish work/detail will entail all of the extra work done to the base/s and figures. It will include basing detail and those added extra touches the entrant included that really set it apart from the other entries.
Questions?
Some of the frequently asked questions have been collected together and presented at the following link for Questions about the Painting Contest.
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