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Hold the phone! That's the emergency Golden Demon alarm telling us that the new competition is right around the corner! Goodness me! Settle in as we discuss the show, expectations, community and all that wonderful stuff.

What does it take to keep improving as a miniature painter and sculptor without losing the joy of the hobby? In this episode, Liam Hopkins shares his journey of continuous improvement, from teaching himself to sculpt to pushing his work further with every project. We explore why impact and originality matter so much in competition, how going the extra mile with conversions and sculpting grabs a judge’s attention, and how Liam uses colour theory and composition to bring a piece together. Liam also talks about bases as a chance to tell a story and be a little flamboyant, how he approaches finishing and iterating on projects, and how he handles setbacks and rejections along the way. A thoughtful conversation about high standards, personal growth and enjoying the hobby without putting undue pressure on yourself.

How has competitive miniature painting changed since 2008, and what does it take to stand out when the standard keeps climbing? In this episode, Lukas Wiggering shares his perspective on nearly two decades of the hobby, from the rising bar at Golden Demon to the constant stream of inspiration (and pressure) that social media brings. We dig into how he approaches composition and storytelling, why he deliberately sets himself restrictions to spark creativity, and how he uses references to create convincing, realistic weathering. Lucas also talks through his work in sculpting, kitbashing and scratch-building, and how he balances those skills in a competition piece. Finally, we get honest about the mental side of the hobby: overwhelm, competition fatigue, motivation and the value of a supportive community. A thoughtful conversation about impact, stubbornness and making work that feels genuinely different.

What does it take to create miniature art that feels personal, cinematic and competition-ready? In this episode, Enric Mikkelsen (Fenrick Studios) shares his approach to storytelling, artistic confidence and the mental side of high-level miniature painting. We explore how he plans and develops a piece, uses cinematic lighting and colour to create emotion, and balances technical skill with personal expression. Enric also talks openly about fear, failure, competition pressure, routine and mental health, as well as the ideas behind his new book, Behind the Brush. A thoughtful conversation about artistic growth, sustainable creativity and finding your own voice as a miniature painter.

Color wheels are guides, not rules, so how do you actually use one? In this follow-up episode Dave and Magnus go deeper into color theory for miniature painting, from the different wheels and what each is good for, to building a palette, evolving it across a project, and the small deliberate experiments that turn theory into instinct. Plus mental models for remembering color relationships, why material and paint choice change the outcome, and how subtlety does more work than saturation. Download the PureRef file here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VykuDJ4PfTXT-JcrCo2NFhSu08TZINT0/view?usp=sharing

What makes a great miniature painting event? In this episode, we take you inside Fen 2026 to explore the atmosphere, community spirit and creative energy that make the event so memorable. We also look at the role of spot prizes, the importance of recognising creativity at every level, and how Fen compares with other miniature painting shows. Whether you are a competition painter, a hobbyist attending your first event, or simply curious about the miniature painting community, this conversation offers an honest look behind the scenes.

What happens when a traditional artist enters the world of miniature painting? In this episode, Jordan Richardson explores how different artistic mediums shape your style, why strong references matter, and what miniature painters can learn from the wider art world. We dive into colour theory, competition painting, deliberate practice and the mental models Jordan uses to overcome creative blocks. Jordan also shares practical advice for developing your own visual language without simply copying the artists who inspire you. A thoughtful conversation about artistic ambition, creative struggle and what it really means to make art in the miniature painting scene.

In this episode, we explore the complex relationship between hobby and mental health, sharing insights from community responses on how painting and modelling serve as both coping mechanisms and sources of stress. We discuss themes like flow states, comparison, imposter syndrome, and the impact of competition, offering practical strategies and honest reflections.  If you need help: https://findahelpline.com/ If you'd like to share something with us: https://forms.gle/q5apuj8w5XRckYXr9 Remember, you're not alone, you are loved.

What does it take to build a painting competition from the ground up? In this episode Phoenix joins Magnus and Bruce to talk through the Crimson Chalice, the community-driven contest heading to Essen. They get into the graft of organising it all, how judging and categories actually work, and why inclusivity and variation matter if you want an event that welcomes hobbyists at every level.

How does color make or break a paint job, and how do you actually get it working for you? In this episode Dave, Magnus and Bruce dig into the world of color in miniature painting, from the emotional pull of a palette to the theory underneath it, and the practical tricks for landing harmony, contrast and impact.

It's a French takeover as we're joined by Thibaut Rahm, one of the new wave of miniature artists creating amazing work and storming the competition scene.

What makes a model ripe for competition and what are the pitfalls you can fall into? In this episode Dave, Magnus and Bruce dive into the GW library to examine a whole host of models and work out what makes them amazing for competition... or not.

Goodness me, it's Slayer Sword winner Borjammer in the studio! Get ready for a great chat as we navigate how he puts together his monster projects, tackles obstacles and makes beautiful art.

Golden Demon has concluded and the largest ever Demon in North America has brought with it a whole host of incredible miniatures for us to take a look at. Settle down with Magnus, Bruce and Dave as we discuss everything that took a trophy at the frankly epic show.

Well well well, if it isn't Alexi Karahaliou, a man who's emerged in two years to go from entering competitions to taking Best of Show accolades. After such a meteoric rise, what's next? And critically, what lessons has Alexi learned along the way that we can all learn from?