Judging Criteria....bubble, bubble, toil and trouble...

["James Purchase" <jpurch@interlog.com>]

I screwed up the numbering of the criteria points in my earlier post. Also,
after I posted the message, I realized that the words Theme and Concept
could be used interchangeably for Criteria #1.

Ken Guin suggested in a post to me that the issues raised by Composition,
Balance and Use of Space could really be considered as one Criteria, so I
have combined them here. He also gives an alternative name for the WOW
Factor, which I also like, so i have encorporated it as well.

So, here it is again:

1. Theme / Concept
2. Selection / Use of Materials
3. Composition / Balance / Use of Space
4. Viability
5. WOW Factor / Overall Distinction

Now, plugging in some specific "questions" relevant to each of these general
criteria, We can arrive at the next stage:
_______________________

Suggested Judging Guidelines

Criteria #1. Theme / Concept

 - a. Does the aquascape clearly display a concious effort on the part of
the hobbyist to convey a particular effect or idea?

 - b. Is this theme appropriate for an aquarium?

 - c. How successeful is the execution of this theme?


Criteria #2. Selection / Use of Materials

 - a. Are the materials selected for use in the aquascape appropriate for
use in an aquarium? (editorial comment - This would cut out Karen's concern
over plastic poinsettias, unless of course they were germaine to the Theme
of the aquascape.)

 - b. Are the various materials harmonious with one another? - i.e. if
several pieces of driftwood or several rocks used, do they compliment one
another or do they produce a discordant effect?

 - c. If employed, are the plants used in the aquascape appropriate for use
in an aquarium and are they in good condition?

 - d. If employed or visible in the image, are the fish and or other animals
in the tank appropriate for use in the aquascape? (editorial comment - This
would cut out a beautifully planted tank containing an 18" Koi, or a 12"
Painted Turtle.)

Criteria #3. Composition / Balance / Use of Space

 - a. Is the visual balance of the decorative materials visually pleasing?

 - b. Does visual tension exist between the various components of the
aquascape?

 - c. Is the viewer's eye drawn into the scene and encouraged to flow
through it, and to linger on specific details?

 - d. Do the various materials/decorations/plants provide pleasing visual
stimulation to the viewer? (editorial comment - color use would fall under
this.)

 - f. Is space within the aquascape used effectively?

 - g. Do open spaces balance and compliment the more enclosed spaces and the
display as a whole?

 - h. Are open spaces and more enclosed spaces used in such a way as to
provide visual excitement within the scene?

Criteria #4. Viability

 - a. Is the aquascape set up and arranged in a manner and using materials
which are likely to lead to failure of the set-up, or in a manner which
would be impossible to maintain on a long term basis as an aquarium using
proper maintenance techniques?

 - b. Is the aquascape obviously set-up and arranged in such a manner as to
work long term as an aquarium?

Criteria #5. "WOW" Factor

 - a. Does the aquascape make a significant positive visual impression upon
the viewer?

 - b. Do all parts of the aquascape work together to present a harmonious
whole?
_________________________

James Purchase
Toronto

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