Silent Observer: Reflections on My First Scale Model Show

The Decision to Compete

After years of building models in relative solitude, I finally decided to venture out to my first scale model contest this February - the IMPS Craig Hewitt Chapter's Modelzona show. For years, I had been trying to make it to the annual WonderFest model contest in Louisville, KY, but my work schedule had always clashed with the dates. This local Phoenix show seemed like a perfect opportunity to finally get my feet wet in model contests. The process started simply enough - a $5 entrance fee to get in, followed by registering my two models for the competition. I paid the entry fees for both pieces, filled out the necessary forms, and got my contestant number.

The Morning Setup Drama

The event was held at the Shriners Auditorium in Phoenix, Arizona, which was fairly easy to find, with several signs directing attendees to the main exhibition hall. I brought two older builds to enter in the competition: a 1:8 scale figure of Dave Bowman from 2001: A Space Odyssey and a studio-scale AT-ST walker from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. The morning didn't start smoothly - while setting up the AT-ST, one of the pilot window shields broke off. Great, now I'll have to try and reattach this tiny part of armor with my trembly hands for all to see. And of course, I hadn't thought to bring any super glue with me, so my first interaction with the vendors was a rushed search for adhesive to do an emergency field repair. Not exactly how I'd planned to start my first contest experience, though it's probably part of the contest experience I'm sure ... transport and setup seems to invite these last-minute challenges ... as does a trembling hand.

First Impressions

Walking in, I was immediately struck by the sheer number of models on display. Tables stretched across the room, each laden with carefully crafted aircraft, tanks, ships, and figures. The quality of work was impressive, ranging from beginners to what I could only describe as museum-worthy pieces. I couldn't help but notice how the sci-fi category, where my entries were placed, was relatively small compared to the overwhelming presence of World War II aircraft and vehicles. These historical pieces dominated the show floor, with what seemed like endless variations of aircraft, ships, tanks and diorama. (Actually one of my favorite form of build).

Learning from Others

I spent the first hour or so wandering between the tables, studying the different techniques and approaches other builders had used. There was some truly remarkable work on display, particularly in the figure category. I was especially impressed by how some builders achieved incredibly realistic skin tones and managed to paint eyes with such precision and life-like quality - definitely techniques I'd love to master for my future figure builds.

The Vendor Experience

The vendor area was well-stocked, with several sellers offering kits at decent prices. I browsed quietly through their offerings, picking up a few specialized tools and gadgets that caught my eye. I am a sucker for the gadget. It was interesting to see some of the new releases and rare kits on display, even if I didn't end up buying much beyond my emergency repair supplies.

Social Dynamics

I did have one interesting conversation with a builder who came up from Tucson who shared details about his impressively detailed NASA lunar lander build. Beyond that, my typical introverted personality kept me mostly to myself. While the staff was helpful and friendly, not many of the other builders went out of their way to engage with me. There were a few attempts at small talk, but being uncomfortable with casual conversation, I found myself struggling to maintain these brief interactions.

The Judging Process

I found myself fascinated watching the judging process, something I knew nothing about before today. The judges methodically examined each model with an intensity I hadn't expected, even using flashlights to peer into cockpits and check the details in shadowed areas. It was eye-opening to see how thoroughly they scrutinized every aspect of the builds. I certainly didn't envy their task - having to choose winners among so many well-crafted pieces must have been challenging.

Awards and Departure

The awards ceremony itself was less than climactic - it simply consisted of plaques being placed next to the winning models. Each category appeared to have first, second, third place winners and a best of show, but there was no formal announcement or explanation of why certain models won or who had built them. Being new to contests, I wasn't sure if this was standard procedure or not. Almost immediately after the awards were placed, people began packing up their builds. Taking my cue from the veterans, I quickly followed suit.

Final Thoughts

Despite the impressive models and available vendors, there wasn't much to actually do beyond looking at static displays. From what I've read and heard about WonderFest, they have guest speakers and panels throughout the day to keep attendees engaged. Something like that would have been welcome here - the day felt long with so much sitting around. Still, my overall impressions were good, even if the format left me wishing for more interactive content to fill the time.

Would I go again? Maybe. The event was well-organized, and I certainly learned some things from studying other builders' work. But the experience left me feeling somewhat flat. Perhaps I had built up unrealistic expectations, imagining more interactive demonstrations or workshops. 

Their monthly club meeting is coming up. Maybe attending one of those would help me better understand how these contests work and what the judges are looking for. Though if I'm honest with myself, the thought of walking into a room of established friends and club members feels just as daunting as this contest did.

For now, I think I'll focus on applying some of the techniques I observed to my current projects. Maybe next time I'll feel more confident about my entries - while I was proud of my Dave Bowman figure and AT-ST walker, seeing the level of craftsmanship around me has definitely inspired me to push my skills further.

Has anyone else had similar experiences at their first model show? I'd be curious to hear how others broke into the social side of the hobby.