More, nearly but not quite...
The hours that go into the finishing touches of these models, sometimes physical work, other times just pondering, reflecting, absorbing it and considering the work...
The latest HO scale model to grace my bench is this RS23. It featured extensively over the weekend but is here again as I've added a little more filth and 'Alco' (or MLW) soot to the bonnet top and cab roof. However the finishing touches I had mentioned remain in-complete - that said as I look carefully over the model it is clear that these small pieces will add a great deal of character. More, adding a touch of worn and chipped paint to the handrails and foot steps breathe a human touch into the finish.
Working on a model in these closing moments is something to be enjoyed not to rush through.
Considering and observing our creations is a wonderful pastime in itself. The added benefit being (if we choose to acknowledge our own critique as part of the creative process and not a list of things we have done wrong, or just as bad, not achieved) a much improved model.
Until next time, more soon...
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I love that slightly cleaner engine door panel on the left, gives a story to the loco, a well used panel, replaced recently or maybe a bored engineer decided to give it a clean one day.
ReplyDeleteThanks Andy, accidental but incorporated into the finish!
DeleteI absolutely love that "authentic" character you manage to imbue into your models. It really makes them feel alive and believable!
ReplyDeleteThank you, authentic character, I guess that comes from my passion for the models and the craft.
DeleteHi James
ReplyDeleteDidn't think you could make that great model better but you have. Looks as if the "leasing company" is getting the last ounce of work out of the old RS. Although Alco's are renown for their smoke and dirt not all end up like 8032. When I went to Shelton in 1999 they had a very clean S-4 spare in the Roundhouse. It had been working a month or two before my visit and my friend John took a photo showing it out in the mill yard and in good condition without much weathering.
Best regards
Alan
Thanks Alan, 600 looks well cared for, although the black hood top would hide a lot of the oily exhaust! Nearly there with this one now!
DeleteHi James
DeleteSimpson kept their locos in good condition right to the end. I think they washed at least the cab and hood and hood down weekly, if not more, so maybe that stopped the build up of sooty weathering beloved of us modellers
Best regards
Alan