ALL SCI-FI

[Brent Gair]

Small update.

I decided to put the robot into a display at local model convention today but I wanted to make some minor upgrades. I had to "repair" some sunken seams (glue seams shrink over time) and do a few touch-ups. Although differences will be hard to see in the pictures...I dull-coated the torso to kill the specular reflection of the silver paint. I also added a bit of shading and highlighting to make the torso look more three dimensional. I adjusted the color on the legs. Finally, I added a small base to make the model more stable. The MDF base is quite heavy so it greatly decreases the chance of the bot getting knocked over.

The base is actually a rejected Space Pod base. I built the base many years ago in anticipation of getting a Space Pod model. When I got the model, I discovered the base was too small! Fortunately, it fits the robot nicely.

My LIS Derelelict is also on display for today but it is going "as is".

[Bud Brewster]

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Gorgeous, Brent! Absolutely gorgeous. I'll add these images to Gallery 7 - Master model maker Brent Gair.

If occurred to me that this would be a nice avatar for you, sir!



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Is there no man on Earth who has the wisdom and innocence of a child?
~ The Space Children (1958)

[Brent Gair]

Funny thing, I actually use my robot model as an avatar on another site. I never thought to add an avatar here. I'll work on that.

Anyway...

Truth is: the robot was more than just on display today. It was actually entered into competition at Valourcon which is a regional IPMS (International Plastic Modeler Society) convention and contest. I have never entered an "in person" contest before. I have entered some online contests in which I have done very well...but I always thought that was a bit unfair since those are largely photo contests and my photography was the bigger factor in my success.

I'm not an IPMS member but the contest was open to the public so I came in as a "walk on". The judges go over the models with magnifying glasses and flashlights so my photo skill couldn't save me.

I was disappointed when the Bronze medal awards were announced and I was left out. I figured I could never place higher than a bronze. Then the Silver medal awards were announced...I was stunned and delighted when my Derelict won a Silver! I hoped I might catch a break and get a bronze by I never imagined I'd get a silver.

Finally the Gold medal awards were announced...by which time I was no longer paying attention .

My jaw hit the floor when I was announced as a Gold medal winner for my Robot!

(NOTE: "Valourcon" is so named because it pays tribute to Valour Road in Winnipeg where four WWI Victoria Cross winners lived. That's why the medal says "For Valour"...it has nothing to do with my personal bravery )