Model Painting Open

Model Painting Open by Cult of Paint!

I’m one of the judges for the Model Painting Open (MPO) by Cult of Paint, along with Andy Wardle and Albert Moreto Font! I’m super excited for it!

Who are Cult of Paint?

Cult of Paint are a collective of avid painters dedicated to nurturing and advancing the miniature painting craft. They provide a variety of platforms for growth and celebration of the craft, including face-to-face workshops, one-on-one sessions, digital courses, competitive painting events, partnerships with key figures in the industry, and much more.

What is the MPO (Model Painting Open)?

MPO began as an online contest, aiming to unite enthusiasts worldwide in a showcase where they could display the magnificent projects they had been perfecting over the year. This year, it is held in-person, in Bristol, UK.

Competition Categories

Participants are free to submit multiple miniatures per category, with judgment based on the collective work. Awards are given based on the highest-rated piece; for instance, if three miniatures are submitted within a category and one is rated higher than the others, the highest rating determines the award.

  • Painting: Open to single miniatures and busts of all scales, focusing on paint quality. Conversions and basing that enhance the miniature’s presentation are considered.
  • Dioramas and Storytelling: Encompasses all scene setups, with or without figures, emphasizing atmosphere and narrative in the judging process.
  • Vehicles, Mechs & Military: Welcomes any scale of military, commercial, industrial, or agricultural vehicles, including Mechs and Gundam. All vehicle miniatures should be entered in this category.

Judging Levels

There are two judging levels across all categories: Master and Standard. Entrants decide their preferred level of evaluation, which is not influenced by past achievements in competitions. One cannot mix levels across different categories.

  • Beginner: Designed for newcomers to miniature painting, aiming to share their work and receive feedback.
  • Standard: For artists from novice to intermediate skill levels, this level is open to all without regard to previous competition outcomes.
  • Master: For experienced painters with a significant collection of awards, reflecting advanced skill and artistry.

Awards System

The MPO employs an Open Format Award System, allowing for multiple awards at each level as necessary, rather than limiting to the traditional Gold, Silver, and Bronze.

Special prizes include:

  • Best of Show
  • Best of Creative

*Note: The Beginner level is eligible for commendation prizes only.

Location

The Engine Shed is situated in the heart of Bristol, directly next to Temple Meads station. There are plenty of restaurants, hotel and parking close by.

Model Painting Open

Tickets

Tickets are available here and give you access to everything at the event for the whole weekend.

Doors open at 1200 on Saturday until 1800 and 1000 on Sunday until 1400 with the awards ceremony at approximately 1100 on Sunday.

Tickets are available on the Cult of Paint store: https://www.cultofpaint.com/shop/ticket

I hope to see you, there!

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