WOR partners up to launch 'Miniature Architects' competition

World-of-Railways is partnering with 3D printed sheet manufacturer Redutex to invite entries to French model exhibition Euromodel's 2022 diorama competition.

Euromodel's 2022 event (postponed from 2021 due to Covid) will provide a spectacle of model cars, railways, dioramas, R/C vehicles, acrobatic planes, helicopters and more.

The 'Miniature Architects' competition will see participants from across Europe take part to create dioramas inspired by regional architecture. World-of-Railways, BRM and RMweb is seeking UK entries to the competition, awards for which will be presented during the exhibition in Châtellerault, France on September 24/25, 2022.

The diorama must be able to fit in a private vehicle – exact dimensions aren't specified – and should be constucted in a scale between 1:35 and 1:64 (1:72 and 1:220 scale category also available) with a central theme of a building, whether a house or industrial warehouse. The diorama can be a scenic cameo, and include a railway or military scene, but must represent the style of a chosen region.

Download the Miniature Architects diorama guidelines.

At least four different types of Redutex self-adhesive textured sheets should be used on the building diorama. Buildings or constructions can be complete or a part representation of the real or imaginary prototype, and must conform to the appropriate style of the chosen region.

The Redutex sheets can be used out of scale, reworked or refinished; they serve to add relief to the model. Redutex self-adhesive texture sheets are available in the UK from DCC Supplies.

The competing model-maker (or club) may choose the theme, region, country and the environment of their diorama which should be accompanied by one or more photographs illustrating the style of the prototype and region modelled.

Dioramas entered must never have been previously shown at an exhibition, or the subject of a magazine article.

Howard Smith, Multi-media Editor of BRM and World-of-Railways said, "This competition is a fantastic opportunity and will bring together modellers of all interests, from miniature wargaming, to military and railway constuction backgrounds. Teaming up with the French, Dutch and Spanish railway press is sure to create a healthy number of entries, and we're looking for the many talented modellers of the UK to step forward and represent our contingent. We see talented modelling all the time in our model press and modelling forums – now's the time to share this with a new audience."

World of Railways is adding to the Redutex and press-backed prizes with Gold, Silver and Bronze awards for both scale categories:

• Gold – One year subscription to WOR Plus
• Silver – One year subscription to BRM digital
• Bronze – Printed copy of Smoke and Steam bookazine

Diorama builders will exhibit their diorama at the show, or have it represented by a show attendee. If unable to attend the show, diorama builders will need to send it by post in advance, the models requiring thought and robust construction. Awards for the best dioramas will be judged by a panel comprising of Euromodel's event organisers, Redutex, and representatives from the Cercle du Zéro, the French 7mm:1ft scale association which will host its 40th anniversary at the show.

Interested in taking part? Download the Miniature Architects diorama guidelines. For more information, visit the Euromodels website.