Gold medal painter

By Mario Prusina Times Editor

Strathmore Times Local Journalism Initiative reporter John Watson earned a gold medal at the inaugural Game Con Canada Brush Masters miniature painting competition in the Large Model category on June 19-21 in Edmonton.

The Brush Masters, presented by Red Claw Gaming, debuted as a new platform designed to celebrate the artistry and technical skill behind miniature painting.

Watson’s winning entry had previously been submitted to Maple Palette in London, Ont., earlier this year, where it received a bronze medal before being awarded gold at Brush Masters.

“It was really interesting hearing what the judges had to say this time around. My entry was the same one I took to Maple Palette … in April and I was awarded a bronze medal there, yet here, I was awarded a gold,” said Watson. “It goes to show judging can often be very subjective.”

Each entry was evaluated across six criteria: technical execution, construction and craftsmanship, composition and visual design, creativity and artistic vision, impact and storytelling, and ambition and challenge.

Watson said the feedback from judges was one of the most valuable parts of the experience.

“The feedback given was also fantastic. That, I feel, is the real value of competing at this level,” said Watson. “Critiquing can be harsh, but it also points you in exactly the right direction to continue improving.”

The judging panel included some of the most recognized miniature artists, led by Alexandre Dos Santos, widely regarded as one of the top painters in Canada, along with Courtney DeVries, Dan Ozborne, Greg Vader and Oscar Lars.

Entries were divided into five categories: Single Model (54 mm or smaller), Large Model (greater than 54 mm), Vehicle/Machine, Diorama/Display/Unit, and Bust/Open.

Medals were awarded in bronze, silver and gold tiers, along with trophies for Best in Category and Best in Show.

Beyond competition results, Watson highlighted the community aspect of the event.

“Competition aside, just being at the events is an amazing way to feel a sense of community, meet people, and speak with people who are just as enthusiastic as you are,” he said.

Looking ahead, Watson said he is planning to continue competing across Canada and internationally.

“Moving forward, there are a handful more competitions here in Canada that have my attention, such as Sword and Brush, which takes place in November. Then, it’ll be on to international events such as AdeptiCon. The latter still frightens me because that would mean competing for a Golden Demon – one of the most prestigious painting awards in the world.”