At 10:00 pm tonight Multiblock will end. The sculptors will be expected to put down all tools and leave their sites. All sites are expected to be cleaned and ready to be judged at 10:15. Scoring is based on ten categories, 100 points each. Scores of 900 or higher are of extraordinary work-that of a master craftsman. Scores of 800 to 899 are of exemplary work-that of a true professional. Scores of 700 to 799 are of exceptional work-quality but needing refinement. The ten categories are: Initial Impression, Originality, Creativity and Artistic Intent, Composition, Balance and Flow, Degree of Difficulty, Utilization of Ice, Completion of form and appearance, Proportion, Symmetry and Scale, Advanced Techniques and Craftsmanship, Accuracy and Precision of Details, Overall Impact.
One interesting fact I just learned about judging is that about an hour before the competition is over, the names of the carvers are covered so that the judges cannot see their names. Also, all judging is done in white light. About 24 hours later the teams can showcase their finished pieces in any configuration of colored lights they desire. For a truly magical experience you need to see these amazing sculptures in daylight and again with colored lights.
Each team (listed with the team captain) has a name for its original creation: Steve Dean-Scourge of K’iyeega; Brian Connors- Sail away Neptune; Steve Brice-Welcome to the Jungle; Abby Peterson-Radical; Rodrigo Ferreira-Eternal Flow; Chris Lantz-Hunt in the Howling Winds; Josy Thomas-Northern Spirit; Dean DeMarais-Rocket Ride; Kevin Kapusi Starow-Monster on the Loose; James Stugart-Community Matters; Ross Baisas-Summon by the Queen; Hiroaki Kimura-Happiness.
Two hours to go and the three judges will begin their difficult job. My job will be to take pictures. Stay tuned.