Times reporter wins bronze at national event
By Mario Prusina Times Editor
Strathmore Times LJI Reporter John Watson claimed a bronze medal at the Maple Palette, a miniature painting national competition in London, Ont. on April 25.
Watson took bronze in the “Large Figures and Bust” category with a miniature based on real world frogs that he used to keep domestically – a fire belly toad and a Vietnamese mossy frog.
“I spent probably in the realm of 125 hours of active work on the project over four months preparing,” said the Times Local Journalism Reporter. “That doesn’t even account for drying and curing times due to the resin pours. Everything has to be as close to perfect and lifelike as possible. I spent several late nights with a jeweler’s visor over my eyes painting down to the calluses and blood vessels on the little goblins.”
What began as a hobby over 13 years ago, Watson’s love for miniature painting grew to a point that he began competing a little over two years ago.
“I was introduced to it all by my uncle who basically spent most of his life obsessed with miniatures and making dioramas,” said Watson. “I’ve come to enjoy competing because it offers a unique sense of community that I don’t otherwise have, and it’s a chance to get targeted feedback that helps me continue to improve.
“This was my fifth competition and my third bronze medal. The other two were a first-place finish in Calgary and a second-place finish at a provincial contest in Blackfalds.”
According to Watson, the Maple Palette has expanded steadily since its inception and is already being recognized as one of the country’s premier competitions in the field. He estimated 100 to 150 people attended this year’s showcase – a turnout notably larger than similar events he’s seen in Alberta.
The competition attracts a diverse range of participants, from newcomers experimenting with their first painted figures to seasoned international veterans known for their highly refined work. Entries are divided into multiple categories based on scale, theme and presentation style.
Judging criteria is detailed and technical, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship on display. According to Watson, judges evaluate elements such as lighting, colour use, blending and brush control, along with advanced techniques like object source lighting or non-metallic metal.
The competition also highlights the evolution of miniature painting as an art form. While earlier styles in the 1980s and 1990s often leaned toward more cartoon-like, modern trends emphasize hyper-realism, with artists striving to create lifelike textures, lighting and depth in their pieces.