Thanks, Skel.
Trystan, yeah, I really like that system. I don't have anything against the 1st, 2nd, 3rd approach a lot of the fantasy/sci-fi gaming shows use. But, considering how much work we all put into our projects it's nice to have your work judged on its own merit rather than against whatever amazing professional painter decides to show up. Of course these shows still have a bunch of one-off awards (best in show sci-fi/fantasy, best in show historical, and a number of best in specific sub-genres) so the really outstanding pieces do get special recognition as well. There are a number of groups around the US that started off as historical miniature groups (though now they have a mix of historical and fantasy/sci-fi), most of their shows use the open system. Since you're in the area, I'd recommend checking out the MMSI show just outside Chicago in Schaumburg. They have it every October (11-13th this year) and it's supposed to be one of the bigger shows in the US. I haven't had a chance to get out for it, but maybe next year. Here's a link with more info:
http://www.mmsichicago.com/
Some other shows in the US:
Atlanta Show - every February
SCAHMS - LA in March
MFCA - Near Philadelpha each May
HMSEO - Tulsa in June (they had one in 2012, don't see any info on a 2013 show though)
NCMSS - Washington, DC each September (I'm part of this group)
Long Island Show - NY in November - I've been trying to get to this one for the past 2 years... 1st year had work come up, 2nd year it was hurricane Sandy... hopefully third try is the charm!
(plus shows like Games Day, Crystal Brush, ReaperCon, etc that people on this forum are probably aware of already)
These shows vary in size (some draw an international audience, others a national, and some just a regional one), but if you're near one go check it out. It doesn't matter what your skill level is, bring along some of your work and see what happens!