Office of the Arts & Sciences
OYEZ! OYEZ! OYEZ!
Attention Artisans, Apprentices and Populace of Trimaris!
Beginning in 2012, there will be a major change to the Arts and Sciences event schedule. Winter Art-Sci will remain a traditional Art-Sci Competition, but the summer Art-Sci Competition will change to a Trimaris Royal University event.
In order to allow the artisans of Trimaris ample opportunity to practice their skills, Regional Art-Sci Faires are being held at local and Baronial events throughout the Kingdom. These Regional Faires operate under the same rules as Kingdom Art-Sci, with more emphasis on constructive commentary and less emphasis on scores. All levels of entry are welcome, and pre-registration is encouraged.
The pre-registration form has been updated to include the Regional Art-Sci Faires curently scheduled, and events will continue to be added throughout the year.
Check out the Trimaris Arts & Sciences website at https://sites.google.com/site/trimarisartssciences/home
Frequently Asked Questions about Art/Sci:
Question: Are the rules the same as they were for last Winter Art/Sci and Summer Art/Sci?
Answer: Yes, the rules are exactly the same. You can find the rules to read online and/or to download at https://sites.google.com/site/trimarisartssciences/home
Question: Should I pre-register my entry? What if I don’t get it done in time?
Answer: Yes, you should go ahead and pre-register your entry. Pre-registering saves you time at Art/Sci and helps the art/sci staff make sure that we have table space for your entry and that we have judges for your entry. When you pre-register, all you have to do the morning of art/sci is check in and pick up your entry materials. No filling out multiple forms by hand! No scrambling to get it all done in time!
You can always let us know that you won’t be able to enter after all! Pre-registration is not an obligation to enter. It’s just a way of saving YOU time and helping the art/sci staff be better prepared.
Question: Is it true that under the new rules something I entered at Summer Art/Sci can be entered again at Winter Art/Sci?
Answer: Yes, that is true. *BUT* there are very specific rules about this process. If you entered a project at Summer Art/Sci you *MUST* significantly rework your entry before you re-enter it at Winter Art/Sci. The rules say that you must have made at least 75% of the changes or improvements suggested by the judges at the previous art/sci. This means that you cannot simply use the previously entered piece as part of a new entry or re-write part/most of the documentation. You may have to start all over from scratch in some cases. You also are required to include all of your judging forms from the previous art/sci as part of your new entry documentation packet. The purpose of this rule is to help entrants refine their entries to get closer to the goal of a “perfect” entry.
Question: I heard that all art/sci projects have to be made in the year (12 months) prior to the art/sci they are entered in.
Answer: The rules state that an art/sci entry must be *completed* in the year (12 months) prior to the art/sci in which it is entered. It doesn’t matter how long ago it was started. Some projects take a really long time to finish! As long as it was completed within the year, it’s eligible!
Question: I can’t attend the event but I really want my entry to be judged at Winter Art/Sci. Do I have to attend the event in order to enter art/sci?
Answer: No, you do not have to be present at the event in order to enter art/sci. You can send your entry to the art/sci with a trustworthy friend, significant other, your peer, someone from your local group, or anyone you trust to make sure your entry gets to and from art/sci safely. If you are sending your entry with someone else we strongly recommend that you pre-register your entry. If you pre-register the person bringing your entry doesn’t have to try to fill out any forms for you, they can just check in, set up your entry and come back in the afternoon to collect your entry and judging forms.
Question: I live pretty far out in the country, my local group is very small and no one is going to the event, and/or I don’t know anyone who can take my entry for me. Can you help?
Answer: Yes, we can. Contact the KMOAS ArtSciTrimaris@gmail.com . We can help, but we ask that you contact us at least two full weeks before the event. The earlier the better!
Question: I have a question about Winter Art/Sci that I don’t see answered here. Who do I contact with questions?
Answer: Contact the KMOAS at ArtSciTrimaris@gmail.com to ask your questions. Your questions may be included in the FAQ here, so keep checking for updates!
Kingdom Art/Sci Minister
Baroness Ceridwen o Cahercommaun
Sharon Harrett
keridwen@cox.net
Trimarian Royal University Chancellor
Mistress Madhavi of Jaisalmer
Andi Houston
jimandandi@cox.net
The new TRU Brochure is available below for download!
Arts & Sciences Deputy of Laureates
Lord Braennan MacEarnan an Gaoth, called Braennan The Misguided
Aaron Peck
misguidedbard@gmail.com
850-443-7376
Deputy of Period Dance Activities
Vacant
Visit our new Art/Sci site at https://sites.google.com/site/trimarisartssciences/home
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(Please note that this is an external site and is not hosted by the Kingdom of Trimaris.)
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Art/Sci Rules
What does it mean to enter Art/Sci as a Novice?
Novices are entrants who are new to Art/Sci Faires, new to the art or craft they are entering, or both. Novice entries are designed to allow entrants to learn about the process of entering Art/Sci and to learn about their art/craft by receiving advice and constructive commentary. Novices are judged on a 40 point scale and have lower documentation requirements than other levels of entry. The Novice Documentation Form will guide novice entrants through providing the necessary documentation. Novices are also judged on simpler criteria than other levels of entry. Judges look at the following aspects of a Novice entry: the overall historical authenticity/appearance of the entry, documentation, and the workmanship or skill involved in creating the entry. Novice entries are not eligible for calculating the Champion of the Arts or selection to be a Gulf Wars Art/Sci Champion. Novice entries do count toward calculating the Patron of the Arts. You can enter the same category multiple times as a novice but it is expected that you will enter in progressively higher levels of entry as you develop your knowledge and skill in your art or science.
What does it mean to enter Art/Sci as a Journeyman?
Journeymen are entrants who are more experienced in their art or craft than they are at doing research and writing documentation, or they are more experienced at researching and writing documentation than they are at the art or craft they are entering. Journeyman entries are designed to allow entrants to develop their experience and skills by receiving targeted advice, feedback and constructive commentary. Journeyman are judged on a 60 point scale and have lower documentation requirements than the Artificer and Masterwork levels, but higher documentation requirements than Novice entries. The Journeyman Documentation Form will guide Journeyman entrants through the process of expanding their documentation. Journeymen are judged on the same aspects as Novice entries, plus two additional aspects: the authenticity of the materials and/or the appropriateness of the materials used in the entry, and the authenticity of the methods used and/or appropriateness of the substitute methods used in the entry. Journeyman entries are eligible for calculating both Champion of the Arts and Patron of the Arts, but may not be selected as Gulf Wars Art/Sci Champions. You can enter the same category multiple times as a Journeyman but it is expected that you will enter in progressively higher levels of entry as you develop your knowledge and skill in your art or science.
What does it mean to enter Art/Sci as an Artificer?
Artificers are entrants who are experienced in both their art/craft and in the art of research and documentation, and have approximately equal skill in both areas. Ideally entrants at this level will also be experienced in the process of entering Art/Sci. Artificer entries are designed to test the skill and knowledge of the entrants while provided detail oriented advice, feedback and constructive commentary. Artificers are judged on an 80 point scale. Documentation is similar, though more detailed, to that required at the Journeyman level. Entrants are provided with a guideline to follow in creating their own written document, rather than a form to fill out. Artificer entries are judged on the same aspects as Journeyman entries, with the addition of two new aspects: the complexity of the entry (measured in comparison to the maximum complexity possible for an entry of this type) and the creativity shown in combining and blending multiple historically accurate elements to create a unique but authentic item. Artificer entries are eligible for calculating the Champion of the Arts and Patron of the Arts. They are also eligible to be selected as Gulf Wars Art/Sci Champions. You can enter the same category multiple times as an Artificer.
What does it mean to enter Art/Sci as a Masterwork?
Masterwork entrants are artisans who areery experienced and skilled in both their art/craft and in the art of research and documentation, and have equal skill in both areas. Entrants at this level should also be very experienced in the process of entering Art/Sci. Masterwork entries are designed to be a real test the skill and knowledge of the entrants. Advice, feedback and constructive commentary will be highly detailed and specific. Masterwork entries are judged on a 100 point scale. Documentation is more expansive than that required at the Artificer level. Entrants are provided with a guideline to follow in creating their own written document. Masterwork entries are judged on the same aspects as Artificer entries. Masterworks are the highest level of entry in the Art/Sci Faire and are subject to the most intense judging scrutiny. Masterwork entries are eligible for calculating the Champion of the Arts and Patron of the Arts. They are also eligible to be selected as Gulf Wars Art/Sci Champions. You can enter the same category multiple times as a Masterwork.
What is Complexity and how is Complexity judged?
Complexity is a measurement of the amount of time, care and attention to period detail given to the entry by the artisan. Because the ultimate goal of an artisan entering an Art/Sci Faire is to create an item that is so authentic it could have been made in period, one of the first things the judges look at is the steps the artisan took in creating the entry. The documentation accompanying an entry tells the judges how a period artisan created an item like this. It also tells us how the artisan created the entry. By comparing the two, the judges are able to see how many period steps the artisan used in creating the entry and how closely they followed the period methods. In addition, the judges can see how many extra steps and/or extra detail the entrant put into the entry. An entry need not be complicated or involve multiple parts in order to receive a perfect score for Complexity, however projects that adhere very closely to the steps and methods used in period will tend to score higher than other entries.
Do all of my entries at Art/Sci have to be at the same level?
No, all your entries do not have to be at the same level. You can enter as many categories as you want, at as many levels as you feel comfortable entering. The only thing you cannot do is enter multiple items in the same category.
So I can enter multiple categories within a single subdivision?
Yes, you can enter multiple categories within a single subdivision. Your entries can also be at different levels of entry within a subdivision. You can only enter one item per category though.
What about group projects?
Group projects are allowed in Art/Sci. You may enter the same category as part of a group project and as an individual project. You may not enter the same category in multiple group projects, but there is no limit to the number of group projects you can enter in a single Art/Sci. In other words, a performer may enter a vocal solo and a vocal ensemble (group project) but can only be in ONE vocal ensemble per Art/Sci Faire. The same individual could also enter an instrumental ensemble and a combined (voices and instruments) ensemble at the same Art/Sci Faire.
Is there a limit to how many entries I may have at a single Art/Sci Faire?
Currently there is no limit to the total number of entries you may have at a single Art/Sci Faire. You may not enter any category with more than one individual entry and one group entry.
Is it better to enter a lot of things at Art/Sci, or just a few things?
It’s usually better to enter to limit your number of entries. There is no prize at Art/Sci for the person who entered the most items. The goal of Art/Sci is to learn about your arts, get constructive feedback on your projects and grow as an artisan. Most people can really only do their best work and give their attention to a few things at a time. Ideally you shouldn’t enter more categories than you truly have time, attention, and a passion for.
Why do I need to have documentation?
The short and simple version is this: Documentation allows the judging panel to understand the purpose and background of your project. It also tells the judges what you know, and what you don’t know, about your art/craft and project. This allows them to help you learn new things instead of repeating information or advise that you already know. It’s also possible that you have learned something about your art/craft or project that your judges don’t know. If you don’t document what you did and why you did it, the judging panel may not have enough information to give you good feedback on your project.
What do I need to include in my documentation?
Again, the short and simple answer: Who, what, where, when, why and how. Answering these basic questions goes a long way towards providing basic documentation. There are a lot of articles available on the internet that can provide a lot more detailed information on how to develop good documentation for advanced entries, but all good documentation answers these basic questions.
Does my documentation need to be typed?
No, it does not need to be typed. Make sure that it is legible though – Don’t use fancy fonts or calligraphy. If you are handwriting your documentation, it’s best to stick to blue or black ink. Other colors may be pretty, but they can be hard for some people to read.
What format or writing style do I have to use in my documentation?
You may use whatever writing style you prefer. APA, MLA and all other writing styles are acceptable. Just be sure that you use same style throughout your documentation.
Why should I pre-register my entry for Kingdom Art/Sci?
It allows the Kingdom Minister of Arts & Sciences time to recruit judges who are knowledgeable about your entry. Some categories have a lot of people who are knowledgeable enough to be good judges, others have very few. Pre-registering your entry helps the Art/Sci staff make participation in the Faire a more rewarding experience for you.
What if I pre-register a project but don’t finish it in time?
Pre-registering a project isn’t a contract. If your project isn’t finished, save it for the next Art/Sci Faire.
Why do written work entries need to be submitted so far in advance?
It takes a lot of time to read and evaluate written works properly. Reading, comprehending and evaluating one moderately long written work can take a couple of hours for each judge. Imagine being asked to review several written works at an event! Depending on the topic of your entry, the judges who are best suited to review your paper may also have a large number of other entries to evaluate. Even if there is enough time to spend a couple hours on each written entry, the judges will become tired and will not be able to concentrate as well after reading the first entry. When you submit written works in advance your entry receives the level of attention that it deserves and you get the best feedback possible for your work.
What are the Arts & Sciences awards in the Kingdom of Trimaris?
Argent Estoile: The Order of the Argent Estoile is bestowed for excellence in the Arts or Sciences in a specific area of endeavor. The Argent Estoile is often the first Arts & Sciences award presented to an artist in Trimaris. Recipients of the Argent Palm may place the initials “OAE” after their name when signing official letters in the SCA. If you would like to recommend an artist for the Argent Palm, simply write a letter to the Crown explaining why you think this individual is deserving of this award.
Bard’s Laureate: The Order of the Bard’s Laureate is bestowed upon individuals who have served as Poet Laureate, Troubadour Laureate, Masque Laureate or Jongleur Laureate by winning one of these Laureate competitions. Recipients of the Bard’s Laureate may place the initials “OBL” after their name when signing official letters in the SCA. This award may only be earned by winning one of the Trimarian Laureate competitions.
Golden Calleon: The Order of the Golden Galleon is bestowed for exemplary service as an event head cook or autocrat. This award is frequently presented in recognition truly outstanding feasts. Recipients of the Golden Galleon may place the initials “OGG” after their name when signing official letters in the SCA. If you would like to recommend someone for the Golden Galleon, simply write a letter to the Crown explaining why you think this individual is deserving of this award.
Trade Winds: The Order of the Trade Winds of Trimaris is bestowed for enduring and exemplary service in the Arts & Sciences. This award comes with an Award of Arms if the recipient does not already hold that rank. Recipients of the Trade Winds Trimaris may place the initials “OTWT” after their name when signing official letters in the SCA. If you would like to recommend an artist for the Trade Winds Trimaris, simply write a letter to the Crown explaining why you think this individual is deserving of this award.
Silver Trident: The Order of the Silver Trident Trimaris is the premief Arts & Sciences award for the Kingdom of Trimaris. The Silver Trident is bestowed for excellence in any Art or Science and exemplary courtesy. This award comes with a Grant of Arm is the recipient does not already hold that rank. Recipients of the Silver Trident may place the initials “OSTT” after their name when signing official letters in the SCA. If you would like to recommend an artist for the Silver Trident Trimaris, simply write a letter to the Crown explaining why you think this individual is deserving of this award.
Order of the Laurel: The Order of the Laurel is a Peerage Order and the highest artistic award given throughout the SCA. The Order of the Laurel is a polling order. The current members of the Order vote on worthy candidates before recommending them to the Crown for elevation. The Crown then decides whether or not to elevate a candidate into the Order. Members of the Order are expected to be very skilled and knowledgeable in at least one medieval or renaissance art or craft. All Peers are expected to be knowledgeable about the SCA and to demonstrate the courtesy and skills worthy of a civilized court in SCA period. Peers are expected to be obedient to Corpora, the Laws of the Society and Kingdom Law. Members of the Order of the Laurel are encouraged to swear fealty to the Crown and are expected to show respect for, and support, the Crown. The populace may recommend worthy candidates for the Order of the Laurel by writing a letter to the Secretary of the Order.
Do you have additional questions that weren’t answered here? Send your questions to the Kingdom Minister of Arts & Sciences! artsci@trimaris.org
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