THOUGHTS ON JUDGING

© Pamela Tawton

Ozquilt Network Newsletter Issue # 33 SEPTEMBER 1999

I have pondered on the complex problem of judging for many years. I agree with the final analysis of the authors of the Report on Judging Certification (Ozquilt Network Newsletter Issue #31) that jurors and judges should be chosen from those with reputations for excellence and knowledge. However perhaps we should have each state body, or other organisations, such as Ozquilt Network, compile a list of such persons.

The problem then exists as to who chooses those who are eligible to be listed. I would be interested in some discussion regarding the following suggestion,

Step one - List criteria e.g.

How many quilts have been made by the applicant?

What successes has the applicant had in juried shows, judged shows and invitational shows?

Has the applicant had work published?

Is the applicant a quilt/art teacher?

Is the applicant a recognised quilt valuer?

Is the applicant currently active in the quilt world?

Does the applicant write on the subject?

I am sure there could be other aspects that may be listed.

Step two - The applicant to apply for inclusion in a list of 'Recommended Judges'. The applicant should be able to fulfill a certain number of the requirements before being considered for inclusion in the list. No doubt the next argument would be "Who would make the final decision?" The choice is quite obvious to me. A panel should be selected by the state body. Once the panel has compiled a list of 'Recommended Judges' these lists would be shared with all other organisations thus compiling a national list. Fulfilling all or some of these requirements may not necessarily produce a good judge but there are no guarantees for that anyway.

It is most important that organisations, outside the quilt world, have access to a list as suggested. Agricultural shows and craft shows need judges of some experience and knowledge. Any quilt that is awarded a prize wears that prize for the rest of its life. A well meaning but ill informed official who does not have access to such information could choose a person to adjudicate, who may not necessarily have the experience deemed necessary to produce an informed decision.

Should judges be paid? What an interesting story from Joyce Hyam (Ozquilt Network Newsletter Issue #31). I guess all we can do is promote active discussion with organisations such as Agricultural Societies, Craft Shows, Guilds, etc. etc. Should the task be seen as a contribution or should it be a fee for service? Many of these organisations charge an entry fee to the viewing public as well as a fee to the exhibitor. Does that make a judge's fee just part of the expense of running an event? Interesting! I anticipate some lively debate.

© Pamela Tawton 1999