The Out of the Woods Competition and Exhibition aims to promote fine woodworking.
Other than a requirement that wood is employed as the predominant material there are few boundaries. Pieces may be classic or modern, emphasize function or form or be shaped by hand tools or machines. We seek fine woodwork evidenced by clear purpose, thoughtfulness in design and execution, and a high degree of care and skill.
Inevitably there will be differences of opinion among judges, entrants and the public on the merits of individual pieces. To maximize fairness the assessment process includes:
- Categories so that as far as possible like is assessed with like.
- Judges with woodworking experience to give credibility.
- Three Judges working individually to minimize bias.
- Judging sheets which specify fine woodwork characteristics to be rated.
- Pieces identified by number to ensure anonymity.
- Triple checking of results to avoid error.
There are Five Assessment Criteria:
- Design and functionality
Balanced design, suited to purpose, aesthetically pleasing or appropriate. - Selection and use of materials
Suitable choice, materials work together. - Craftsmanship
Degree of difficulty, joint quality, no unsightly glue or fixings. - Finish and visual appeal
Appropriate finish, free of blemishes, harmony of colours and textures. - Originality and ingenuity
In concept, design, construction skills or methodologies.
Judges are asked to examine all entries and they collectively select four to six pieces for detailed assessment.
Judges are then asked to independently assess each piece and rank them from 1 (best) to 6 for each criteria.
All the Judges’ scores for all criteria are tallied by the Curator to determine the 1st, 2nd and 3rd places in each category.
For further information contact the Curator:
Shawn Ritchie - ootw.organizer@gmail.com