A&S STandards and The Lack Thereof in Ansteorra

KiheBard at aol.com KiheBard at aol.com
Mon Jun 9 21:19:17 PDT 1997


In a message dated 97-06-08 14:19:43 EDT, Marcus writes:

> thank you that would be very helpfull.  I have gone to a number of the  A
>  and S duells and sometimes more than I care to remember there is no
>  feedback whatsoever, wheter your stuff that you have worked on 
>  hard, was  good or bad.
  
  Marcus, it has been my experience that entries in A&S competitions 
for the last five years have been in general absolutely astoundingly 
good, and I pity the poor judges trying to distinguish a single winner
even within obvious categories such as fiber arts or brewing.

Where an increasing number of the "arts champions" (Steppes Artisan,
for example) are based upon a _body_ of work, I am continually 
in awe as to the breadth AND depth of talent displayed.  I'm currently 
debating with myself whether or not I can set out even a half-table
of my own work for the next competition here in Steppes.  Only by
forcing myself into the task will I manage to do so, but I think I
should (if for no other reason than to show people that I can do
something besides tell tales and sell sharp pointy objects).

I agree that feedback, both formal and informal, is something often
missing from A&S competition. It is all the more sadly lacking from
*displays* in arts and science, at least within my limited experience.

As an SCA bard, it is generally fairly simple for me to learn whether
or not what I am doing "works". Applause, appropriately timed
groans & other signs of disgust at a well-delivered pun, and the
occasional bit of largesse after a story or poem are obvious.  But
I also get feedback by exchanges, and occasional direct critiques,
in communication with other bards.

In the broader A&S community, some of the guild structures may
be providing this. If so, I applaud the notion. If not, perhaps those
guilds and classes need to reconsider.

Amra
too tired tonight for the fancy .sig



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