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For artists and collectors sponsored by Intercal...your mohair supplier and Johnna's Mohair Store
An email came today about the TOBYs. I was wondering how you decide which of your creations to submit. Do you design something just for the competition? Or when something turns out really well?
Hmm 
I always go through all I've made for that year and decide on entries. I do try to do special charity pieces and pieces themed to certain shows with the thought I might use their photos, later, for a contest. This helps me push my limits and try new things. But I don't design, specifically, for a contest. I find that's just too much pressure and it never turns out a very creative piece. The thought to keep in mind is that your contest entry has to be something completely new and original. And have the best photos you can get!
Karen
P.S. I'll be SO glad when "others" have more than one category! I've won 3 TOBYs and a TED, but I've only been able to enter the "other" category or vignette if I include a bear. I have a feeling that the "other" category must be overloaded with entries by now, yet the contests are still reluctant to expand to more options :doh:
Bears by EdieI also have never made a bear specifically to enter in the Toby's or Golden Teddies - when I have entered I have just used a bear that I thought turned out particularily well and also the photos turned out great - to show it off to the best advantage. I think some people do create items specifically for the contests but I've just never had time for that! I have in the past, when I used to do shows, created bears for contests within the show when there have been theme categories and some of those I also used for the Toby and Golden Teddy competitions.
The year I won the TOBY I had a pretty good idea that the bear I had in mind was worthy of competition among my peers. It's on a wing and a prayer that the photos turned out well. It really is a combination of both going hand in hand. The most frustrating thing is to have a bear you know is spectacular, yet you just can't quite capture it on film.
I already have a bear done for entry this year. No photos yet though. We'll see if I can capture the soul I see looking back at me on film. If not, oh well. I believe the bear is worthy of competition....will my photos be worthy of the bear, and/or competition? We'll see!
You just never know what the judges are looking for either. Cute one year, traditional the next, over the top the next year and so on. If you're doing your best work and you capture that certain something your bear posesses....go for it!! Afterall, you can't win, if you don't enter!!
Warmest bear hugs for everyone even thinking of entering! :hug:
Aleta
puca bearsI'd have to agree with Aleta, especially about the photography.............some bears just DON'T behave in front of the camera. I do sometimes make bears specifically for competitions - doesn't always work tho' - and sometimes I enter a bear which turned out well and looked good on the photo, and then get a huge shock when it wins.
You just never can tell with competitions - but one thing is for sure - you have to be in there to have a chance.
hugies
Maria
