Displaying models at contests.

[seadude]

This topic isn't necessarily about the model itself, but rather more about how it is displayed.

What are the limitations on displaying models at contests? Are there any IPMS rules on size and shape, etc. of a display?

How do most modelers like to display their models: On a stand? On a mirror surface to show the underside? On a scenic diorama base with groundwork? On a wood plaque base? Or something else?

How important or unimportant is information next to a model such as specifications, pictures, etc., etc. ?

As an example, I'm currently building all the aircraft related to the DARPA XST Stealth Fighter competition from the 1970's. This includes the Lockheed "Hopeless Diamond", Northrop XST, Lockheed "Have Blue" prototype, and the final F-117 aircraft. All four aircraft are in 1/144 scale and I'm trying to figure out a way to display them and/or put some sort of informational text next to them for people to read. Any suggestions?

[Captain Canada]

No idea, but I like the idea of having a tarmac type base that`s cut open to reveal a mirror so people can see underneath Especially if these stealthy types have an open weapons bay or somat of interest underneath.

[PR19_Kit]

In IPMS UK there are no rules about a model should be displayed.

It's up to the modeller if it's mounted on a base, a mirror, a stand or standing on its wheels or floats (or skis even...) IIRC there are rules about how complex a base may be before it's classified as a diorama, and then it's moved to a different class.

Other IPMS branches may have their own rules of course, as they are allowed to do.

[Thorvic]

Skunkworks inside hanger for top brass display with a curtain as a backdrop and lots of security and MPs, or Area 51 at mouth of hanger ?

[NARSES2]

IIRC there are rules about how complex a base may be before it's classified as a diorama, and then it's moved to a different class.

There are Kit and it's interesting. Their was a winner a year or so back - a crashed and wrecked aircraft that had been discovered years after the event (I think anyway) - that caused some controversy as many argued it was indeed a diorama. Heard some of the "discussion" whilst looking at it  In my view it was a diorama as the aircraft looked more like an archaeological dig, but that's just my opinion.

[Rick Lowe]

Our rules state a model must be secured to the base, and if there's more than one or two figures around an aircraft it's edging into Diorama territory, but other than that, it's pretty open...

FWIW

Cheers