A lot of great points, most of which I agree with, but let me just add my two cents.
It would be a difficult comparison, indeed, to compare two divergent styles of ship models, although I have confidence the judges (whomever they might be) would be able to make the necessary comparisons given a set list of criteria to be judged. By this I mean comparing the degree of skill in building an accurate hull (i.e., symmetry of lines, absence of apparent gaps and good fitting of parts), clean construction techniques (no visible glue marks, no apparent paper edges visible, crisp folds and tight joints), degree of difficulty in carrying out the subassemblies (again, symmetry, cleanliness and the "I can't believe it's paper" factor), symmetry of construction (masts in proper alignment and proportion, deck houses in proper shape and proportion) and execution of details without relying too heavily on premade detail sets, although some items to be made within the time provided might, depending on the model chosen, need some prefab, but that can be a factor taken into consideration by the judges. If one contestant uses photo etched parts whereas another makes it up from scratch, that is a factor to be considered, I would respectfully suggest. It is, after all, an area of skill that should be taken into consideration in the overall judging.
Similarly, dictating the use of paints or not, etc., should really be an open choice, but one that is noted by the judges in making their final evaluations.
As to the subject of the ship, well, that's the difficult one. Sure would be easiest to require a single ship model be used by all, but it might be impractical unless the model is easily made available to all who want to compete. If a model kit maker can be found who is willing to have enough kits available to the contestants, and every contestant is willing to be judged building a ship dictated by the judging committee, well then the problem is solved. I still think different types of model ships can be judged given a standard format of areas to be judged as noted above, but it certainly makes it easier for the judges if the same ship model is used by all; it just shouldn't be a kit that would be difficult for some potential contestants to acquire as a prerequisite to join in the fun. I don't think the manufacturer/designer need to give the kit away either, but, perhaps, a special offer to contest participants, or some other conveyance. Of course, the idea of the old DN Arizona kit being used comes to mind since with the release of the new version, as Roman said, he will be putting the old one "in ordinary" (meaning, laid up and out of commision).
I also think it would be invaluable if all contestants are encouraged to post their progress so all could enjoy the competition over the four month construction period. I doubt if it would require a lot of persuasion to have this group post their photos, since we are all either admitted or closet photo junkies. :lol: I assume a separate thread would be created for posting such photos and commentary. (Yeah, that's a "Duh!?!")
This is a superb idea and one that should be looked at as nothing more than a great deal of fun. I would like to learn a lot from the skilled modelers out there, and am selfishly looking forward to seeing their work in the contest to gain some great tips and insight in their modeling techniques. :lol:
I look forward to seeing what the eventual criteria will be for judging, the type or types of ship model(s) to be used, etc.
Well, there's my two cents...or is it more like a buck fifty?
Jim
