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{{refimprove|date=August 2015}}
'''Model horse showing''' is a hobby built around the collection of scale ], with equal focus on honoring the (live) ] industry as well as the artistic merit of the miniatures.

'''Model horse showing''' is a hobby built around the collection of scale ], with equal focus on honouring the (real) ] industry as well as the artistic merit of the miniatures.


== Classes & Divisions == == Classes & Divisions ==
Model horse shows consist primarily of two divisions: Halter and Performance. There are both Halter-only and Performance-only shows, though many larger shows will include both.<ref>{{cite web|title=Breyerfest 2015 Open Show Classlist|url=https://www.breyerhorses.com/files/imagesBreyer/Community/Breyerfest-2015/Documents/Open-Show/BreyerFest-Open-Show-Classlist-2015.pdf|website=Breyer Horses|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref><ref name=DUMHSWhatIs>{{cite web|title=What Is Live Showing|url=http://downundermhs.com/pages/page.php?p=126|website=Down Under Model Horse Show|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> Often there are up to three shows run side-by-side: Youth, Novice and/or Open.<ref name=BreyerOpenGuide>{{cite web|title=A Guide to Entering the BreyerFest Open Show For the First Time|url=https://www.breyerhorses.com/files/imagesBreyer/Community/Breyerfest-2015/Documents/A-First-Timers-Guide-to-Showing-at-BreyerFest-open.pdf|website=Breyer Horses}}</ref> Individual shows will make their own guidelines for what qualifies entry to each of these categories.
Model horse shows consist primarily of two divisions: Halter and Performance. There are both Halter-only and Performance-only shows, though many larger shows will include both. Halter can be further broken down into smaller divisions based on material to equalize the different fields of craftsmanship. Common sub-sections include:

:*'''OF Plastic''' or Original Finish Plastic, refers to the original plastic horses produced by companies such as the Breyer Horse Company or the Peter Stone Company. Many shows now further break this down to give separate classes to Breyer and Stone Company horses.
Several abbreviations commonly occur: OF (Original Finish), CM (Custom) and AR (Artist Resin).
:*'''OF China/Resin''' or Original Finish Chinas and Resins, refers to professionally produced porcelain horses produced by companies such as Animal Artistry, Pour Horse Pottery, or Alchemy Fine China.
:*'''CM China''' or Custom Glazed Chinas, refers to professionally produced porcelain horses that have been individually re-glazed.
:*'''Artist Resin''' refers to professionally produced resin models which have been individually painted by professional or amateur artists.
:*'''Simple Custom''' typically refers to OF Plastic horses that have been repainted, haired, or minimally resculpted, regardless of original material or manufacturer, where the original mold can still be identified. It implies minimal customization, generally limited to a repaint.
:*'''Drastic Custom''' typically refers to OF Plastic horses that have been repainted, haired, or drastically resculpted, regardless of original material or manufacturer, where the original mold generally cannot be identified. It implies heavy customization.


===Halter Division=== ===Halter Division===
These classes evaluate how a model represents the actual ] of ]. The divisions and judging criteria are derived from their real-life counterparts. Although known as "Halter", no tack or costume is required on the model, and it is generally omitted. These classes evaluate how a model represents the actual ] of ]. The divisions and judging criteria are derived from their real-life counterparts. Although known as "Halter", no tack or costume is required on the model, and it is generally omitted.

Halter can be further broken down into subdivisions based on manufacturing medium to equalize the different fields of craftsmanship. Common subdivisions include:

:*'''OF Plastic''' or Original Finish Plastic, refers to the original plastic horses produced by companies such as the ] or the Peter Stone Company. Many shows now further break this down to give separate classes to Breyer and Peter Stone Company horses.
:*'''OF China/Resin''' or Original Finish Chinas and Resins, refers to professionally produced porcelain horses produced by companies such as Animal Artistry, Pour Horse Pottery, or Alchemy Fine China.
:*'''Artist Resin''' refers to professionally produced resin models which have been individually painted by professional or amateur artists.
:*'''CM Plastic''' typically refers to OF Plastic horses that have been repainted, haired, or resculpted, regardless of original material or manufacturer. The custom may be a drastic custom, where the original model is no longer recognisable, or a minimal custom.
:*'''CM China''' or Custom Glazed Chinas, refers to professionally produced porcelain horses that have been individually re-glazed, whether by a professional or amateur.


===Collectibility Division=== ===Collectibility Division===
These classes evaluate the rarity and condition of models. Documentation as to why a given model is collectible (i.e. very low number produced, very hard to find due to age, etc.) is often presented with the entry. Some shows require documentation. Models in this division are always Original Finish models. These classes evaluate the rarity and condition of models. Documentation as to why a given model is collectible (i.e. very low number produced, very hard to find due to age, unrealistic colours etc.) is often presented with the entry. Some shows require documentation. Many collectibility divisions also include classes for non-equine models. Models in this division are always Original Finish models.


===Workmanship Division=== ===Workmanship Division===
These classes evaluate the finishwork of the model. Preparation work on the model before final painting, any re-sculpting work, and final painting are all considered. These models are never Original Finish models. These classes evaluate the finishwork of the model. Preparation work on the model before final painting, any re-sculpting work, and final painting are all considered. These models are never Original Finish models, although they may have begun as OF models.


===Performance Division=== ===Performance Division===
The Performance classes focuses more on the model, its pose, and its suitability to real-life tasks. Common classes include: The Performance classes focuses more on the model, its pose, and its suitability to real-life tasks. Performance divisions requires suitable tack for the model, and sometimes a rider and/or backdrop. Props such as jumps, fences and other animals may also be allowed. Common classes include:
:*'''English Performance''', where models are placed in simple dioramas reflecting the events of traditional ] ]/] competitions. :*'''English Performance''', where models are placed in simple dioramas reflecting the events of traditional ] ]/] and ] competitions.
:*'''Western Performance''', with divisions for stock work (cutting, roping), ], ] and trail work as well as traditional ] classes such as pleasure, ] and trail. :*'''Western Performance''', with divisions for stock work (cutting, roping), ], ] and trail work as well as traditional ] classes such as pleasure, ] and trail.
:*'''Other Performance''', often includes the Costume class, where a model is judged by both its own conformation as well as the accuracy and craftsmanship of the costume it wears. :*'''Other Performance''', often includes the Costume class, where a model is judged by both its own conformation as well as the accuracy and craftsmanship of the costume it wears.


==Live Shows== ==Live Shows==
"Live shows" involve traveling to a given location to present one's model horses in person, alongside the models of other hobbyists. There is usually an entry fee, but most shows will accept multiple payment options.
At most live shows the exhibitors are allowed to sell models, tack, and other related items.


"Live Shows" are events where model horses may be shown and judged. These take place throughout the year in many countries, and are often regulated by a larger live showing organisation such as NAMHSA (North American Model Horse Showers Association) in the United States<ref name=NAMHSA>{{cite web|title=NAMHSA About Us|url=http://www.namhsa.org/aboutnamhsa.htm|website=North American Model Horse Showers Association|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> and BECF (British Equine Collectors' Forum) in Great Britain.<ref name=BECF>{{cite web|title=BECF|url=http://www.britishequinecollectorsforum.com/|website=British Equine Collectors Forum|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> At these shows, first and second place in many classes can qualify a model for a yearly championship - this is commonly referred to as "NANing", as NAMHSA-qualified horses receive "NAN" (North American Nationals) cards.<ref name=NANFAQ>{{cite web|title=NAN FAQ|url=http://www.namhsa.org/nan/FAQ.htm|website=North American Model Horse Showers Association|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> Listings of approved upcoming shows are maintained by these organisations.
==Photo Shows==


For most live shows there is an entry fee, which varies depending on the table space taken up by the entrant (full table or half table).<ref name=KittyKittyLive>{{cite web|title=Kitty Kitty Live|url=http://www.chestnutridge.co.uk/article/KittyKittyLiveI|website=Chestnut Ridge|accessdate=5 June 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150310070151/http://www.chestnutridge.co.uk/article/KittyKittyLiveI|archive-date=10 March 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> Proxy showing, whereby a collector's model is shown by another, may also be allowed for a fee.<ref name=Breakables>{{cite web|title=Breakables Live! at Breyerfest 2015|url=https://www.breyerhorses.com/files/imagesBreyer/Community/Breyerfest-2015/Documents/Breakables/Breakables2015EntrantPacket.pdf|website=Breyer Horses|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref>
"Photo showing" is a way of showing one's model horse and/or pony collection without taking it to a live show and is also a way of depicting a scene with one's model horse.


Live shows can vary in scale, from large weekend-long shows coinciding with other events, to smaller shows held in the organiser's house.<ref name=AIMHC>{{cite web|title=How To Live Show|url=http://aimhc.nddesigns.com.au/pages/aimhc.php?p=59|website=Australasian and International Model Horse Club}}</ref> Shows may offer ribbons, rosettes or prizes (often model horses) for any number of places;<ref name=AIMHC /> however shows advertised as "no-frills" tend to award paper ribbons for lower placings to reduce costs and entry fees.<ref name="Great Lakes Congress">{{cite web|title=Great Lakes Congress|url=http://www.greatlakescongress.com/|website=Great Lakes Congress|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> Live shows often have vendors present selling model horse and equestrian-related goods. Many showers also sell or trade models at shows.
Photo showing originated in the 1960s as an alternative to "live" showing. Photo showing involves taking photographs of the models and emailing or snail-mailing them to the "show holder" (the person who has agreed to organize and judge the show) to be judged alongside photos submitted by other entrants.


Horses are sometimes required to have information about the entry (including name, breed and gender) on either a tag attached to the off-side hind leg of model,<ref name=AIMHC /> or on a regulation-size card. Breed/colour/performance references may be placed on the table beside the horse, depending on the table size and number of horses in the class as stated in the show guidelines.<ref name=DUMHS_documentation>{{cite web|title=Documentation|url=http://downundermhs.com/pages/page.php?p=129|website=Down Under Model Horse Show|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> Often large books are not allowed.
Photo shows may be open to the public or may be offered through model horse clubs, when they are open only to club members and often award points that count toward awards based on annual and/or cumulative winnings. Clubs usually have a standard class listing that is used for each show. In any case, the numbers of the classes in which the hobbyist wishes to enter her horse are written on the back of the photograph. Once the photographs arrive at the show holder's house, she sorts them by class number, starting with the lowest number. As each class is judged, she re-sorts them into the next class according to the next highest number on the list.


==Photo Shows==
Although each judge has her own preferences, the criteria for placing include the model's biomechanical correctness, breed type (how well the model suits the breed that the hobbyist has chosen for it), condition, presentation, and photo quality. Although there is some difference of opinion, most hobbyists consider the primary intent of photo showing to be evaluation of the model itself and not of the photographic skill or artistic sensibilities of the photographer, although consideration of these is taken.


"Photo showing" is a way of showing one's model horse collection without the risk and expense of transporting it to a live show. Photo shows can contain any of the classes found in live shows, including Halter, Performance and Collectibility classes.
Most photographs show a full side view of the model. Presentation is a matter of taste. Some judges prefer a very plain background (often solid sky-blue or tan) and others prefer a more realistic one (enlarged photographs of pastures or farm scenes are common), but it is important that the horse not blend into the backdrop and that the footing, which is often sand, kitty litter, or some sort of false turf, not obscure the model's hooves and legs. It is also important that the footing, backdrop, and any props such as fences or plants used in the photograph be in scale. It is extremely important that the model be in focus and that the lighting be clear, bright, and even, without stark shadows or heavy off-color overtones. Ideal outdoor lighting conditions usually involve bright but not direct sunlight, which can be difficult to obtain. Many hobbyists resort to setting up small indoor studios with special photo lamps. There are hobbyists who work as professional photographers within the hobby but most exhibitors do their own work.


Photo showing originated as an alternative to "live" showing. Photo showing originally involved taking photographs of the models and posting them to the show holder, to be judged alongside other entrants; this is now referred to as 'postal showing' and has become less popular with the invention of the internet. The majority of photo showing now takes place online. Photos may be emailed directly to the show holder or upload to various web services, such as ], ] or ]. Photo shows are typically not registered with a higher body such as NAMHSA, and are run on a more adhoc basis, therefore can only be found through searching social networks.
Model horses may be photo shown in both halter and performance classes. The judging criteria necessarily differ somewhat. While the judge is still looking for a good-quality photograph that shows the model clearly, performance photos also concert correctness of equipment (saddles, bridles, jumps, racing barrels, safety gear, etc.) and whether or not the horse would be performing in a correct, safe, and "legal" manner (according to the guidelines of the governing body of a given sport) if it were a real horse. Model horse performance guidelines follow those of real-horse breed and performance organizations.


Photo shows are judged taking into account the same criteria as in live shows, but it may also take into account the quality of the photo (background, framing, lighting etc.) and how representative the photos are of the horse. Shows may place requirements on how many views of the model are photographed (i.e. on-side, off-side, head-shot, markings). Information about the entrant (such as class, model name, breed and gender) is usually included before the photo in the case of a video entry, or in a caption or description in the case of a photo entry. Reference photos of real-life animals or breed information may be included to support breed or colour choices for a particular model. As with live-showing, models are not always shown as the breed the manufacturer intended to represent, and less common but well-chosen breeds are often believed to be favoured by judges.
The increased availability of digital cameras, and increased familiarity with computer photography programs and the Internet have added new dimensions to photo showing. Some hobbyists have begun to offer online photo shows in which photos are emailed to the show-holder, along with class number listings for each photograph. The show-holder then sorts them and uploads them to a website so they can be judged as would an ordinary photo show.


Due to the nature of photo showing, the requirement for an entrance fee can vary. Postal showing typically required a fee which may include the cost of returning the photos. Online showing is generally free, but some club-run shows require an entrance fee or paid membership.<ref>{{cite web|title=MEPSA Novice Shows|url=http://mepsa1.tripod.com/novice.html|website=Model Equine Photo Showers Association|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> Shows run through social networks are almost always free, but rarely have material prizes.
Alteration of photographs, such as touching up visible damage to the model or drawing in missing pieces of tack, has long been frowned upon within the hobby and is often grounds for disqualification from the show. This applies to film as well as digital photographs. In digital photography, fixing poor exposures or discoloration caused by imperfect lighting are usually permitted but nothing else. Many online show judges examine entries for signs of digital tampering.


Photo showing may also be preferred for models which may not be in a suitable condition for live showing; this is often referred as Photo Show Quality (PSQ) as opposed to Live Show Quality (LSQ).<ref name=BreyerAbbreviations>{{cite web|title=Abbreviations|url=https://www.breyerhorses.com/index.php?pageId=2123|website=Breyer Horses|accessdate=5 June 2015}}</ref> These terms are often used when selling models in order to indicate their suitability for showing. They may also be referred to as Live-Show Proven (LSP) to indicate they have been placed in a class in a live show; such models may come with any rosettes/ribbons that they have won.
==Organizations==

* Official Web Site.
==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

==External links==
* Official Web Site. * Official Web Site.
* Official Web Site.
* Official Web Site.
* Official Web Site. * Official Web Site.
* Official Web Site.


] ]

Latest revision as of 12:29, 6 April 2020

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Model horse showing is a hobby built around the collection of scale model horses, with equal focus on honouring the (real) horse show industry as well as the artistic merit of the miniatures.

Classes & Divisions

Model horse shows consist primarily of two divisions: Halter and Performance. There are both Halter-only and Performance-only shows, though many larger shows will include both. Often there are up to three shows run side-by-side: Youth, Novice and/or Open. Individual shows will make their own guidelines for what qualifies entry to each of these categories.

Several abbreviations commonly occur: OF (Original Finish), CM (Custom) and AR (Artist Resin).

Halter Division

These classes evaluate how a model represents the actual breed of horse. The divisions and judging criteria are derived from their real-life counterparts. Although known as "Halter", no tack or costume is required on the model, and it is generally omitted.

Halter can be further broken down into subdivisions based on manufacturing medium to equalize the different fields of craftsmanship. Common subdivisions include:

  • OF Plastic or Original Finish Plastic, refers to the original plastic horses produced by companies such as the Breyer Horse Company or the Peter Stone Company. Many shows now further break this down to give separate classes to Breyer and Peter Stone Company horses.
  • OF China/Resin or Original Finish Chinas and Resins, refers to professionally produced porcelain horses produced by companies such as Animal Artistry, Pour Horse Pottery, or Alchemy Fine China.
  • Artist Resin refers to professionally produced resin models which have been individually painted by professional or amateur artists.
  • CM Plastic typically refers to OF Plastic horses that have been repainted, haired, or resculpted, regardless of original material or manufacturer. The custom may be a drastic custom, where the original model is no longer recognisable, or a minimal custom.
  • CM China or Custom Glazed Chinas, refers to professionally produced porcelain horses that have been individually re-glazed, whether by a professional or amateur.

Collectibility Division

These classes evaluate the rarity and condition of models. Documentation as to why a given model is collectible (i.e. very low number produced, very hard to find due to age, unrealistic colours etc.) is often presented with the entry. Some shows require documentation. Many collectibility divisions also include classes for non-equine models. Models in this division are always Original Finish models.

Workmanship Division

These classes evaluate the finishwork of the model. Preparation work on the model before final painting, any re-sculpting work, and final painting are all considered. These models are never Original Finish models, although they may have begun as OF models.

Performance Division

The Performance classes focuses more on the model, its pose, and its suitability to real-life tasks. Performance divisions requires suitable tack for the model, and sometimes a rider and/or backdrop. Props such as jumps, fences and other animals may also be allowed. Common classes include:

  • English Performance, where models are placed in simple dioramas reflecting the events of traditional English Hunter/Jumper and racing competitions.
  • Western Performance, with divisions for stock work (cutting, roping), rodeo, reining and trail work as well as traditional western classes such as pleasure, horsemanship and trail.
  • Other Performance, often includes the Costume class, where a model is judged by both its own conformation as well as the accuracy and craftsmanship of the costume it wears.

Live Shows

"Live Shows" are events where model horses may be shown and judged. These take place throughout the year in many countries, and are often regulated by a larger live showing organisation such as NAMHSA (North American Model Horse Showers Association) in the United States and BECF (British Equine Collectors' Forum) in Great Britain. At these shows, first and second place in many classes can qualify a model for a yearly championship - this is commonly referred to as "NANing", as NAMHSA-qualified horses receive "NAN" (North American Nationals) cards. Listings of approved upcoming shows are maintained by these organisations.

For most live shows there is an entry fee, which varies depending on the table space taken up by the entrant (full table or half table). Proxy showing, whereby a collector's model is shown by another, may also be allowed for a fee.

Live shows can vary in scale, from large weekend-long shows coinciding with other events, to smaller shows held in the organiser's house. Shows may offer ribbons, rosettes or prizes (often model horses) for any number of places; however shows advertised as "no-frills" tend to award paper ribbons for lower placings to reduce costs and entry fees. Live shows often have vendors present selling model horse and equestrian-related goods. Many showers also sell or trade models at shows.

Horses are sometimes required to have information about the entry (including name, breed and gender) on either a tag attached to the off-side hind leg of model, or on a regulation-size card. Breed/colour/performance references may be placed on the table beside the horse, depending on the table size and number of horses in the class as stated in the show guidelines. Often large books are not allowed.

Photo Shows

"Photo showing" is a way of showing one's model horse collection without the risk and expense of transporting it to a live show. Photo shows can contain any of the classes found in live shows, including Halter, Performance and Collectibility classes.

Photo showing originated as an alternative to "live" showing. Photo showing originally involved taking photographs of the models and posting them to the show holder, to be judged alongside other entrants; this is now referred to as 'postal showing' and has become less popular with the invention of the internet. The majority of photo showing now takes place online. Photos may be emailed directly to the show holder or upload to various web services, such as YouTube, Instagram or Facebook. Photo shows are typically not registered with a higher body such as NAMHSA, and are run on a more adhoc basis, therefore can only be found through searching social networks.

Photo shows are judged taking into account the same criteria as in live shows, but it may also take into account the quality of the photo (background, framing, lighting etc.) and how representative the photos are of the horse. Shows may place requirements on how many views of the model are photographed (i.e. on-side, off-side, head-shot, markings). Information about the entrant (such as class, model name, breed and gender) is usually included before the photo in the case of a video entry, or in a caption or description in the case of a photo entry. Reference photos of real-life animals or breed information may be included to support breed or colour choices for a particular model. As with live-showing, models are not always shown as the breed the manufacturer intended to represent, and less common but well-chosen breeds are often believed to be favoured by judges.

Due to the nature of photo showing, the requirement for an entrance fee can vary. Postal showing typically required a fee which may include the cost of returning the photos. Online showing is generally free, but some club-run shows require an entrance fee or paid membership. Shows run through social networks are almost always free, but rarely have material prizes.

Photo showing may also be preferred for models which may not be in a suitable condition for live showing; this is often referred as Photo Show Quality (PSQ) as opposed to Live Show Quality (LSQ). These terms are often used when selling models in order to indicate their suitability for showing. They may also be referred to as Live-Show Proven (LSP) to indicate they have been placed in a class in a live show; such models may come with any rosettes/ribbons that they have won.

References

  1. "Breyerfest 2015 Open Show Classlist" (PDF). Breyer Horses. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  2. "What Is Live Showing". Down Under Model Horse Show. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  3. "A Guide to Entering the BreyerFest Open Show For the First Time" (PDF). Breyer Horses.
  4. "NAMHSA About Us". North American Model Horse Showers Association. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  5. "BECF". British Equine Collectors Forum. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  6. "NAN FAQ". North American Model Horse Showers Association. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  7. "Kitty Kitty Live". Chestnut Ridge. Archived from the original on 10 March 2015. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  8. "Breakables Live! at Breyerfest 2015" (PDF). Breyer Horses. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  9. ^ "How To Live Show". Australasian and International Model Horse Club.
  10. "Great Lakes Congress". Great Lakes Congress. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  11. "Documentation". Down Under Model Horse Show. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  12. "MEPSA Novice Shows". Model Equine Photo Showers Association. Retrieved 5 June 2015.
  13. "Abbreviations". Breyer Horses. Retrieved 5 June 2015.

External links

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