I was delighted to win the Gold Golden Demon, Slayer Sword and Forge World Best of Show award in 2014 at the Coventry Ricoh Arena with my Thanatar.
Winning these accolades with my Thanatar model was a defining moment in my journey as a miniature painter.
The Road to The Slayer Sword
The competition that year was particularly intense. I remember walking into the arena, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. The Thanatar model, which I had painstakingly worked on, was my entry into the Warhammer 40,000 Vehicle category.
Crafting the Thanatar
Creating the Thanatar was a labour of love and an exercise in pushing my boundaries. As an artist with a background in illustration, I focused on bringing out intricate details and dynamic elements in the model. The challenge was to not just paint a miniature, but to breathe life into it, giving it character and a story.
The Moment of Triumph
Winning the Gold Golden Demon was exhilarating, but the announcement of the Slayer Sword win left me in disbelief. To have my work recognized at such a high level amongst a sea of talented artists was an honour that I had always dreamed of. The icing on the cake was the Forge World Best in Show award. This triple win was a milestone in my career, validating my skills and passion for miniature painting.
Beyond the Brush
This achievement at the Coventry Ricoh Arena wasn’t just about the awards. It was a validation of the years of dedication and learning. From a teenager passionate about the hobby to a professional painter focused on the art of miniatures, this journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs.
The Community Spirit
One of the most beautiful aspects of these competitions is the community. Engaging with fellow painters, sharing tips, and seeing their incredible work up close is something I always enjoy at events. It’s a reminder that we’re part of a vibrant and supportive community, each contributing to the tapestry of this wonderful hobby. If you see me at an event, please don’t be shy – come up and say “hi!”
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Reflecting on winning the Slayer Sword in 2014, I see it as a pivotal point that shaped my subsequent path. It encouraged me to continue exploring, experimenting, and sharing my knowledge with the wider community. It also opened up new opportunities, from commission work to creating content for platforms like Patreon and YouTube – until then I didn’t create painting tutorials at all!
Staying Connected
To all the aspiring artists and hobbyists out there, I hope my journey inspires you to pursue your passion. Remember, every brushstroke is a step towards mastery. You can follow my ongoing journey and see my latest works on various platforms like Instagram as @daemonrich, Twitter, and Patreon.
That day at the Coventry Ricoh Arena in 2014, with my Thanatar model, will always be a cherished memory. It stands as a testament to the dedication and love I have for miniature painting, and it’s a reminder of the incredible community we’re all a part of.
If you’d like to learn how to paint from me and don’t have an account, please sign up here! The website currently has over 350 video tutorials with steps and tips, plus a selection of PDFs. If you are not sure about joining, you can explore my free videos with a free membership, or take the plunge and become a full subscriber for full access.
If you’d prefer to support me on Patreon, please visit: https://www.patreon.com/RichardGray