Sunday, August 9, 2009

Modeller of the Month - August 2009


This month I was lucky enough to interview Kevin Hudson, an advanced modeller at the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show 2009. I discussed with him the model ship he is currently building and why he attended the model show to the techniques he uses.

At the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show many curious viewers gaze in amazement at the technique and patience the modeller Kevin Hudson possesses. Kevin stands by his work to speak to fellow modellers and inquisitive on lookers alike. Kevin provides detailed descriptions of the processes he uses to achieve such quality craftsmanship. It is obvious that Kevin is in his element and enjoys sharing his knowledge as well as learning from other modellers.

Spread out across one of the display tables at the exhibition is masts, decking, canons, anchors’ and life boats- most of the fittings for a grand ship. A Victory hull lies waiting to be completed. On inspection, the fittings lying across the table have exquisite brass and expert detail. Kevin stands examining these tiny pieces- checking, double checking – a true perfectionist at work. The only semi-completed ship at the show, Kevin decided to bring it along to show the different stages of the model making process.

“I wanted to inspire people with my model. I only get to see finished ships, not the processes involved between start and finish. I came to the model show to pick the brains of talented gentlemen and talk to other likeminded people.” Kevin said.

What makes these pieces so unique is the precision of the modeller – surely only a surgeon with a steady hand and an eye for detail could mould and shape such tiny, fiddly pieces of metal and wood. Kevin uses a very methodical way of creating his model ship; each piece of the plans is one section that must be completed to the highest of standards before moving to the next. A painstaking and lengthy task that is enjoyed by Kevin immensely. Due to this Kevin produces higher quality fittings which are no longer mediocre but a piece of art- a beautiful adornment.

Now you’re all probably wondering what tools and techniques he uses that you can get your hands on. Unfortunately Kevin uses some unusual devices to craft his model ship. Even more unusual is that Kevin is only on his second model. His first, the Chinese Junk was a test run to see if he had the time and patience to work on model ships. Kevin is a scientific instrument maker who repairs and designs medical equipment for hospitals and Kevin like many modellers has used the skills he has developed from work to create model ships- a natural transition. Kevin’s most unusual device is using a diamond cutter to make some of the pieces as accurate and intricate as possible, each fitting with brass more like jewellery than the next. No wonder Kevin has to wear thick glasses which magnify his eyes.

When asked about the challenges of model ship building Kevin replied with, “I make the process as complicated and accurate as I can. I cross reference all the plans and use books about the Victory to help me make it as realistic as possible.” Kevin said with a laugh.

Kevin was inspired by fellow modellers who make wood carvings on their model ships. Many modellers have woodworking and metalworking skills. There are a whole range of skills from the workforce which can be implemented in the hobby of model ship building. Kevin is lucky to have a very patient wife named Pam who supports Kevin through his creative endeavours. Pam has one rule which Kevin must abide by in order to continue model ship building. Golden Rule: no more than two models in the house at a time. Which is a fair rule considering some modellers have a collection of model kits hiding under the bed and in the wardrobe waiting to see the light of day.
Very important advice to other modellers which cannot be expressed more strongly by many modellers is to enjoy yourself and find your own way in model ship building. Use the natural talents that you possess and harness them. Use painting skills, mathematical skills, drafting skills, aesthetic skills, design skills and many more. As long as the aptitude you have makes model ship building an enjoyable and fulfilling hobby, just like with Kevin, than that is the most essential technique of all.

Written by Elyce Nicholls
Freelance Writer.

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