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Collecting => Customs => Customs Community and Group Projects => Topic started by: BrentS on April 3, 2006, 11:50 AM

Title: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 3, 2006, 11:50 AM
I took the liberty of creating an impromptu poll in form of a thread.

Choice A - Imperials
Choice B - Gladiators
Choice C - Yuuzhan Vong

Vote below.  I'll let someone more important than me decide when the poll closes  ;D
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: babyjawa on April 3, 2006, 12:01 PM
Vong! I have always wanted to try to make one of these. Maybe if Wallyworld has some ROTS grievous figures on sale I can modify one of those.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 3, 2006, 12:12 PM
Gladiators!

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: tonphanan on April 3, 2006, 12:18 PM
C

It will let me get off my butt and finish these guy I started almost a year ago.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: hyouriittai on April 3, 2006, 12:39 PM
C, Yuuzhan Vong!
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: BrentS on April 3, 2006, 01:36 PM
I'm going to vote for Imperials, if only because I've got a couple in mind to make anyway.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Nirvana on April 3, 2006, 02:40 PM
A.

So I can continue my Coruscant ARD.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 3, 2006, 03:31 PM
Bring forth the GLADIATORS!!!! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jeff on April 3, 2006, 04:00 PM
I'll vote Imperials, because that is what I thought we decided after picking Fan Fic Aliens last month...  :-\

So far...
3 votes = Choice A - Imperials
2 votes = Choice B - Gladiators
3 votes = Choice C - Yuuzhan Vong

Looks like we need some more votes still to choose a clear winner.

Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 3, 2006, 04:10 PM
This is a close race so far.  I say the voting needs to end by Friday so people will have time to get their figure made.

Here are the reasons why I do/don't want to do a certain type of figure:

Imperials - Just seems to lack the creativity that we usually have with these.  I guess because there are already and abundance of Imperial figures that Hasbro has made.

Yuuzhan Vong - For whatever reason, the coolness factor of these guys has completely died with me... except for Nom Anor.  He's about the only character from this species that interests me anymore, and it's because of his character personality, not his species.

Gladiators - I see whacky aliens with huge axes, crazy armor, etc.  So to me this sound exciting.

So, my vote still goes towards Gladiators, but if a Vong wins I'll make Nom Anor.  If an Imperial wins, all I have to do is show a Stormtrooper or Imperial officer with a slight modification, and to me that's just too easy.

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Darth_Ennis on April 3, 2006, 04:37 PM
Im up for the Vong. Mostly because I need to finally get around to doing one. And since the april GP is Isard or Daala if Imps win I guess I can tack another one on.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jeff on April 3, 2006, 04:58 PM
So, my vote still goes towards Gladiators, but if a Vong wins I'll make Nom Anor.  If an Imperial wins, all I have to do is show a Stormtrooper or Imperial officer with a slight modification, and to me that's just too easy.

Yeah, I hear you on the "too easy part", but we have to remember that everyone needs to start somewhere.  I have no problems with a "too easy" topic every now and again to encourage more participation in these challenges.

Something that is "too easy" for CHEWIE or Phruby or Glassman might not be too easy for everyone who would like to participate. 

I think it is easy to forget that fact sometimes when you make as many customs as some of you folks do...  heck even re-painting a figure can be a big accomplishment for some newbies even though it is old hat for some of you out there.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 3, 2006, 05:27 PM
I know what you're saying Jeff, I guess that since this is the 1-year anniversary of these, I would like to see something that isn't so ...ordinary.  I do understand of course that a repaint can be a big accomplishment too.  Trust me, I don't sculpt.  The only times I've done that would be in a rare case like making Quinlan Vos hair, which turned out pretty bad. 

I don't have any artistic talent at all in that type of customizing area, I just put a lot of time and money into getting various parts, and seeing what fits and what doesn't.  Anyone can do what I do if they want to, so I would never consider myself making anything that can't be done by everyone in the customizing community.

Anyways, my whole point about the Imperials is that I would like to see something that isn't so "vanilla" as Imperials, if you know what I mean.  Something different, that isn't an Imperial officer head swap.  That's why I like the Gladiators idea, it's very different and allows for a ton of creativity and imagination.  People have been making Imperials over and over for years.  The point in these has always been to make new items that you wouldn't usually make.   

When people are saying "Now I can finish that custom I was working on" doesn't that kind of kill the point?  It's supposed to be for something you weren't planning on making.  We've all probably already had a project or two that we threw a custom in that we were planning on making anyway, but to turn a project into something that we've all made numerous times seems kind of pointless and not really much of a "Challenge."

Besides, the Group Project is already of Imperial Women, so I think this should be different instead of one in the same.  Just my two cents and I don't mean to put anyone's opinion down that wants to do Imperials.  Just after being very involved in these every month, that seems like a less exciting genre than we usually try and make.  But, if that's what the majority of people want to make, then that's fine too.  I guess if Imperials wins, I'd like to see it as some sort of branch of Imperials, like Imperial Governors, Imperial Assassins, etc.

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 3, 2006, 05:36 PM
Hi everyone,

I have to agree with Jeff on this one to a certain degree. Beginners have to take on projects that fit there level of experience. That is why all model kits have level of difficulty labeled on their boxes. However, if beginners only do the things that they feel comfortable, then they will not grow as artist and hobbyist. It is taking on challenges a little higher than their level and either fail and learn from their mistakes, or succeed and gear up for the next challenge. It took me 15 years to get this far with out taking any art classes or get a degree in art design. Ultimately, as long as the challenges are fun to make, customizes of all levels will want to participate. Regardless what the outcome of this vote is, as customizes, we have a duty to construct, paint, sculpt our best efforts in order to learn and grow.

Ok, I am getting off my soapbox now; I am going to sculpt something now.

Until next posting,

Jedi_Master_Ben

P.S. Go Gladiators!!!
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 3, 2006, 05:50 PM
Good post Ben. 

And my bias against the Imperials on this isn't at all due to a level of one's skill, it's for wanting to see stuff made that hasn't been made over and over and over.  People are going to make Imperials regardless of whether we do an Imperials Customizing Challenge or not.

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Ryan on April 3, 2006, 06:29 PM
Great last couple of posts guys. We did just do Rebel Troopers in December so I think something more challenging is in order. I vote for Gladiators but I'd be ok with the Vong if that's what the majority wants. I've got lots of Imperials planned anyways so there is no need to waste a Month of the CCC on them.

And for anyone who still wants to do Imperials you can alwasy do some sort of Imperial Gladiatos like Owen D made.

(http://www.owenscustoms.com/pittroopers2.JPG)
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jeff on April 3, 2006, 06:39 PM
Just to carry over to the new page...

So far:
3 votes = Choice A - Imperials
3 votes = Choice B - Gladiators
4 votes = Choice C - Yuuzhan Vong


And, just to be clear, I understand everyone's point on Imperials, just looking out for the newbies.   ;)

Heck, if you really wanted you could probably come up with a Vong Gladiator in Clone Armor and just do all three that way...  :D
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Smartypants1635 on April 3, 2006, 08:01 PM
Gladiators all the way, I just loved that scene from the cartoon, it inspired me a bunch I have so many ideas.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 3, 2006, 08:08 PM
Yeah, keep those votes coming.   :)

(http://ffmedia.ign.com/filmforce/image/article/569/569303/gladiator_crowe_tiger_1101791020-000.jpg)

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Phrubruh on April 3, 2006, 11:21 PM
After reading what Chewie said about how we should let our imagination flow, I've changed my mind and voting for Gladiators. We'll do the Vong later.


Oever : Well hi Joey.
Murdock : Come on up here, you can see better.
Oever : We have something here for our special visitors ( takes
out a model airplane for Joey ), would you like to have
it?
Joey : Thank youuuuuuu! Thanks alot!
Oever : Sure. You ever been in a cockpit before?
Joey : No sir, I've never been up in a plane before.
Oever : You ever . . . seen a grown man naked ?
Murdock : Do you want me to check the weather Clarence?
Oever : No, why don't you take care of it. Joey, did ya
ever hang around a gymnasium?
Elaine : We'd better get back now Joey!
Oever : Noooooooo, Joey can stay here for a while if he'd
like.
Joey : Could I?
Elaine : Okay, if you don't get in the way.
Oever : Joey, do you like movies about gladiators?
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 3, 2006, 11:27 PM
Phruby, you are the man.  And I really appreciate your change of heart on this.  I do think a Vong one would be very good for the future, and actually want to PM you an idea about it.

So my vote still stands at Gladiators.  I just see all kinds of design ideas for this that can combine ancient weapons with new technology.  Just really interesting designs.  I might even get a photonovel started based off of this theme if it wins over.

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 3, 2006, 11:33 PM
Let the games begin!!! Release the Gladiators!!!! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 3, 2006, 11:49 PM
I can see it now... Rykrof and Freelo chained together, fighting for their lives.  I had thought about that a while back for a photonovel, but the storyline just isn't right for that to happen (at least not at this point).

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: bocrebjedi on April 3, 2006, 11:50 PM
Gladiators have inspired me.  I am almost complete with an accessory and just need the figure to complement it.


Here is my first attempt at I gladiator I made a couple of years ago.  It was meant to take on Dan Curto's Gamorrean Gladiator.

(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d150/bocrebjedi/Customs/JawaGladiator.jpg)
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Commander_Miseria on April 4, 2006, 12:52 AM
I'm all for gladiators as well.  8)
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 4, 2006, 01:23 AM
I hear the roaring crowds echoing thoughout the colosium, chanting: GLADIAOTRS, GLADIATORS, GLADIATORS!!!!!! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Ryan on April 4, 2006, 01:49 AM
Max-im-us! Max-im-us! Max-im-us!


 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Kit Fisto on April 4, 2006, 12:19 PM
Choice B - Gladiators
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: RollaJedi on April 4, 2006, 01:06 PM
I'll be in on this one!  :)
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 4, 2006, 01:08 PM
I'll be in on this one!  :)


Which one?  Imperials, Gladiators or Yuuzhan Vong?

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Phalanxx on April 4, 2006, 01:42 PM
I'm up for this challenge as well.  I vote for Gladiators.  The posibilities are endless.
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Phrubruh on April 4, 2006, 03:06 PM
Well then lets get cracking on the Gladiators. It's already April 4th!
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: RollaJedi on April 4, 2006, 03:20 PM
gladiators!  :)
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: CHEWIE on April 4, 2006, 03:55 PM
Ok... I think Gladiators has won out... anyone who dissents with this speak your mind now or forever keep your silence.   ;)

Maybe some sort of Imperials or a Vong one can be soon, because I definitely don't want to shun out someone's idea on those. 

And another idea I've had for a future one is some sort of vehicle maybe in a few months?  Seeing that the modular diorama one went over kind of well, I thought it might be cool to see a few custom vehicles?

 :P
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 4, 2006, 04:23 PM
I second the idea for custom vehicles for future MCC event.

Here, here!!!

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Darth_Ennis on April 4, 2006, 05:10 PM
Fine then, Ill make a Youzan Vong Gladiator. :P ;D
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jeff on April 4, 2006, 08:28 PM
Ok... I think Gladiators has won out...

3 votes = Choice A - Imperials
10 votes = Choice B - Gladiators
4 votes = Choice C - Yuuzhan Vong


Yeah, I think we can call it at this point.   

Someone make a mental note for future topics - Imperials, Vong, Vehicles...
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 4, 2006, 10:07 PM
A Vong Gladiator would actually be a very cool idea Darth Ennis.  In fact that would be a terrifying looking character.

Jeff or Jesse, can we get a front page reminder next week on this to maybe pull in a few new people?  It's always awesome when you guys do that.

 :P
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Commander_Miseria on April 4, 2006, 10:23 PM
awesome, gotta start digging for some fearsome parts  :P
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 4, 2006, 11:23 PM
I voted for Imperials but I'm happy with Gladiators.  I can definitely use a Gladiator in a future chapter of my photonovel.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 5, 2006, 10:02 AM
just do an Imperial Vong Gladiator.  :)

(he's really confused)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Commander_Miseria on April 5, 2006, 03:23 PM
just do an Imperial Vong Gladiator.  :)

(he's really confused)

hahahaha  ;D nice one rolla

I'm not so sure what i'm gunna do. Would you consider the guys that fight asajj ventress in the clone wars cartoon "Gladiators". I think they're sorta bounty hunters, but it was a gladiator battle  :-\
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 5, 2006, 03:26 PM
I'd definitely consider those guys to be Gladiators Commander Miseria.   :)

 :P
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth_Ennis on April 5, 2006, 04:12 PM
just do an Imperial Vong Gladiator.š :)

Hey, Dont steal my idea. :P :P :P ;D
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 6, 2006, 10:51 AM
Ooooh, I forgot about those!  The assaj fight would be awesome figures to make!
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 6, 2006, 11:08 AM
Hey it was cool seeing Commander Miseria's custom from last month on the front page.  I love that custom, it's so original.

I think I might have an idea for the Gladiator custom that you guys will like, but might have to do something I'm not used to... sculpting.   :-X

 :P
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Commander_Miseria on April 6, 2006, 11:17 AM
Hey it was cool seeing Commander Miseria's custom from last month on the front page.  I love that custom, it's so original.

I think I might have an idea for the Gladiator custom that you guys will like, but might have to do something I'm not used to... sculpting.   :-X

 :P

Front page??   ???  I must have missed it  :'(

Anyways, ya i'll probably be doing the robot, l8-l9 (and the dance too) i think is his name, since i already have the parts i want to use. I'll also be making another gladiator too, but i'm still working with my parts on that one  8)


EDIT: Nevermind i see it now!  :P Thanks for the front page pic guys and glad ya liked him.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jeff on April 6, 2006, 11:39 AM
Thanks for the front page pic guys and glad ya liked him.

No problem.  As I've said in the past, I try to pick a different custom each time I do those plugs so that a variety of folks get the chance to show off their work.   ;)

(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/7-05/tn_SalvageDroid.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/9-05/bhntM5.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/9-05/tn_jeeb.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/10-05/tn_ccm6.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/11-05/cc7image.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/12-05/cc8.jpg)
(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/1-06/cc9a.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/2-06/cc910.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/3-06/mcc11.jpg)(http://www.jedidefender.com/news/images/4-06/tn_cc11.jpg)




Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth_Ennis on April 6, 2006, 05:02 PM
Why is it mine never make it to the front page? :'( :'( ;D
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 6, 2006, 07:17 PM
Hi everyone,

I got my Gladiator picked out. It is a Psadan Gladiator  from the planet Wayland. I spotted this guy in the Essential Guide to Alien Species. Here is a pic of what they look like:

(http://liberty.warp1.net/unsorted/aliens29.jpg)

I will post WIP as I get them done.

Later,

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 7, 2006, 12:18 PM
awesome!  What base will you use?
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 8, 2006, 08:19 PM
Hi everyone,

I have been very busy this weekend. I got a rough sculpt now of my Psadan Gladiator He is comming along nicely now. I thought this would be a good time to post a WIP pic of him. Oh, and RollaJedi, to answer your question, there is no base figure for this custom. This is a complete sculpt just like all my other figures. The only thing on him that is store bought are the weapons he is holding. Thanks for the interest and stay tuned for updates as I get them in.

(http://www.geocities.com/wolverine1257/Forum_Picture_Posting/Psadan_Gladiator.jpg)

Let me know what you all think. Thanks  for looking

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 8, 2006, 11:10 PM
JM Ben - you flat out nailed that one.  I can't believe how quick you can churn out these high quality sculpts.  Freakin' amazing.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 8, 2006, 11:35 PM
BrentS: Thanks for the comment. I had to guess what the back side of this guy looks like. I only seen two good pictures of him, Essential guide and the pic I posted above. I have the Last Command comic, but these creatures were not done justice by the artists that inked the mag. :'( The way I figure this guy looks like is a summo wrestler. I studied refrence photos of the summo and applied it to the sculpt. Also, by the nature of the design of the alien, that will be very little articulation. I only see swivil arms and ball joint head with the big bone will be attached to the head like the breathing unit on a AT-AT or TIE pilot figure. The rest of the body would have to be a single cast. But am having fun making him. I am supprise that Hasbro has not really tap this subject material for future figures. If anything, it would be another alien encounter for Chewie's photonovel if he want to use him that is.

Again, thanks for the comments and stay tuned for more updates as I have them ready.

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 9, 2006, 01:45 AM
Here is my entry.   Kluh Saxder:

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y271/cerius31/Kluh-Close.jpg)

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y271/cerius31/Kluh-Front.jpg)

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y271/cerius31/Kluh-Side2.jpg)

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y271/cerius31/Kluh-Side.jpg)

I may add some more to him but I'm pretty happy with how he looks right now.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: o-wj on April 9, 2006, 02:25 AM
Hey CHEWIE......If I send ya a pic of my Wookie Gladiator I did back in 2001, will ya post it for me ? LMK

P.S. Nice to find another place where ya post !!! ;D
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: PenDragon on April 9, 2006, 10:08 AM
NICE use of the Hulk figure! It goes well with the Dex head, and makes for a cool gladiator!

Might also work really well for this guy:

(http://www.starwars.com/databank/character/giantflog/img/eu_bg.jpg) (http://www.starwars.com/databank/character/giantflog/)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 9, 2006, 01:34 PM
Ben - how in the hell are you so good at sculpting!  Man, that's just crazy!  So well done, you should be working for a professional toy company.  If I were you on this one I would take some creative licensing and give him more skin texture than the drawing suggests?

Brent - I commented more in your thread, man that rocks.  You really did a great job on this, he's huge and would have been a cool addition to AOTC in the Geonosis Arena!  Very well done.

 :)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 9, 2006, 06:08 PM
PenDragon - Thanks for the comments. You know that would be a cool body for that Gladiator from the clone wars.  I'm not sure which head to use, maybe a modified wookie could be used?
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 9, 2006, 11:05 PM
Hi BrentS,

Ha ha, size maters not, my gladiator will take on yours. Let get ready to rumble!!!!

All kidding aside, that gladiator came out great! I like the fact that you chose a color that not a shade of brown or green. It's very bold and pops out. The choice of head was perfect, who would have thought that figure could serve another purpose other than flipping a burger ;D. Man, I going to have to get some better weapons though...and I just where to get them he he he eh ;D.

Again BrentS, great looking gladiator. I got to finish mine. See you at the coliseum  ;D.

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth_Ennis on April 10, 2006, 12:04 PM
Hang on guys, its hard to type with my jaw on the floor. :o :o

Wow! That is excellent work Ben. You know with that kind of talent you really should be working for hasbro. That sculpt is dead on perfect.

BrentS Saxter is excellent. That hulk body really works with that head. Excellent job.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 11, 2006, 01:42 PM
Ben: excellent!  Man, you actually scratch make those!?  I gotta ask though, do you cut the legs and arms off and articulate them or is it gonna be one piece?

BrentS: I used to customize wwe figures and that looks really good!  I thought about using a wrestler for a base as well. 


I'm kinda busy tryin to get the casting and molding thing down, so I'm not sure if I'll be able to do this month yet.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: babyjawa on April 11, 2006, 03:54 PM
I am actually confused about what we are doing. Are we doing Star Wars or something else? If we are doing Star Wars are we doing charaters that were in that one arena in the clone wars cartoon?
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 11, 2006, 04:07 PM
Hi babyjawa,

Lets see I can clear this up for you. The theme for this month is Gladiators. That's it, nothing specific other than make a gladiator figure that could fight in a gladiator style arena. Some example were a clone trooper decked out with spikes and chainmail armor and with swords and nets and so on. Another example would be one of the creatures in arena in the Clone Wars cartoon. The other example would be to find a star wars charater and deck him/ her for battle in the Colosium. I picked the Psadan to be my gladiator because I was looking through my Essential guide of species and thought he looked cool as a gladiator. The point of this excerise it to have fun and be creative with your designs. No limitation are set.

So, go..., go now..., go make a custum gladiator so you to can do battle for I am the Govonator ;D ;D ;D!

All kidding aside, I hope this helps,

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: babyjawa on April 11, 2006, 04:24 PM
I read about that species in the guide the day before you posted it. They are cool.

I am going to try to enter, but have no idea of what to do. If I manage to do something it would probably be from that arena. I wouldn't be able to find any in that though. Hmm...


Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 11, 2006, 05:02 PM
This may be a lot of help to you all making the Rattatak gladiators from the cartoons:
http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/The_Cauldron
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: babyjawa on April 11, 2006, 07:25 PM
Ok, I am entering. I found out what I am going to do and have already started.  I just hope that I can finish in time.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth_Ennis on April 12, 2006, 05:26 PM
I have mine done, mostly done anyway. Ive got a few touches to make on him, hopefully Ill be finished by the weekend.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 13, 2006, 10:56 AM
I just started on mine.  Do we HAVE to have them done by the end of the month or can they be posted after?
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jeff on April 13, 2006, 11:04 AM
Most people try to have them done by the end of the month, but if you post it a few days into the next month, you wouldn't be the first one to be a little late.   ;)

I've been so swamped at work that I haven't had much time to get started on this one... I may have to sit out this month again.   :-\
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 13, 2006, 09:04 PM
Jeff and anyone who might be on the fence on this one, I hope you can enter into it, even if it's something like a simple parts swap, there might be something out there that you can find in another toy line that will work.  I made mine in just 5 minutes tonight with luck of finding a base figure that I thought worked out well for the looking I was going for.

PROTARR THE GLADIATOR

(http://chewie34.250free.com/041406ProtarrtheGladiator.jpg)

head - ROTS Ask Aak
rest - LOTR Frodo in Orc Armor

Maybe he's a "Graniator" - cheesy, I know.   :P

Simple, I know... just thought the parts looked good together.  Since I can't sculpt or cast, I just buy lots of fodder during collecting "dry spells."  Customizing is what really interests me in the hobby for the most part anyway.

 :)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: tonphanan on April 13, 2006, 10:10 PM
Tusken (Kick your ass with a bone) Raider

Tusken Ambush for head and legs
Chap Mei Pirates torso, which oddly enough popped into place on the tusken waist.
Massif chain

(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c214/Tonphanan/IM000404.jpg)

I know my pictures are blurry, sorry can not figure out camera.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c214/Tonphanan/IM000404.jpg
above link incase picture does not work
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 13, 2006, 11:16 PM
Chewie - I think Protarr looks really good.  I've been eyeing the LOTR figures thinking their must be a use for them (especially Golem).  I think this figure looks good.  My only complaint would be the feet.  I'm wondering if those would be the proper feet for a Gran (is that species name, I always forget).

Tophanan - I like the tusken - I've been on a tusken kick recently.  Looks like the parts match very well together.  I'm not sure about the white ring around the neck, what is that?
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: tonphanan on April 13, 2006, 11:25 PM
It's a wrap around his neck. I know it sticks out compared to the rest of the figure. I debated painting it to match the torso but decided to leave it alone.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 14, 2006, 10:46 AM
where did you find the chap mei pirates figures anyways? 
The customs look good boys!
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: bocrebjedi on April 15, 2006, 04:06 AM
I found mine at the Dollar Stores.  There is only three figures, one a Blackbeard type Pirate, the one with a bare chest and a third one. 
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth Delicious on April 15, 2006, 02:46 PM
Wow, so many of you have turned in great entries so far! I like the Dexter gladiator, he looks really cool. Chewie's Protarr is awesome...I only wish I wasn't using that same body for something else...Chewie always beats me to the punch! And the Tusken Raider is quite original as well.

Well, here's my first entry this for this month's challenge.

Inspired by Chewie's giant Whipid Gomorr, I decided to do a Whipid custom in the same vein.

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y267/spamweasel/WhipidMuscle.jpg)

I may yet sculpt a little hair on this guy and give him a topknot, but I'm undecided so far. What do you guys think?

Time permitting I may have two other gladiators done by the end of the month.

-DD
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Fritzkrieg on April 15, 2006, 04:51 PM
I Made this a While Back, Using a Dollar Store Fig for the Body and a POTF2 Gamorean Head. I'll try to make Something New UP This Week if I find the Time.
(http://www.twcory.com/Gallery/UserFiles/GamoreanPitFighter.JPG)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 15, 2006, 04:57 PM
That's really cool Fritz, I came really close to making my guy for this a Gamorrean but went with a Gran just because I think it will fit in my photonovel series eventually.  Looking forward to whatever changes you might make.

Tonphanan that is pretty cool and different.  Good idea, I could see a Tusken getting captured or something and being sold as a fighter for some warlord's entertainment.  I'd suggest maybe some painting?

DD your Whipid absolutely rocks, man I love using that Muftak body for giant Whipids.  I take it you did some work on the feet, making two toes.  Looks spectacular!  A little more hair on top might look cool, but either way it looks great.  And I love his shoulder armor, this is one of my favorite customs that you've made.  Just awesome!

 :)

Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Fritzkrieg on April 15, 2006, 05:01 PM
Forgot About my "Luke About to get his But Handed To Him in Gladiator Gear"
(http://www.twcory.com/Gallery/UserFiles/Luke%20Pitt%20Fighter.JPG)
The VOTC Luke Just Looks Like Such a Wussy No Matter how You Dress Him.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth Delicious on April 15, 2006, 05:11 PM
Thanks, Chewie! Like I said, I loved Gomorr so much I had to do one myself. You are correct on the toe modification...I cut out the middle and resculpted the area with some epoxy.

Fritzkrieg: I've always loved that Gamoorean of yours...it's cool to see not all of them are out of shape!  :P I have been meaning to do one myself as I have all the parts, but have yet to get around to it. I'm lazy.  ;)

That Luke would rather be going to Tosche Station to pick up some power converters.

-DD
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 17, 2006, 09:31 AM
very cool!  That luke keeps reminding me of that old movie Yor.  :)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 18, 2006, 10:12 AM
guys, I was wondering if maybe on these monthly sessions you could bend the rules a little and still submit stuff like over a month late.  I love to customize and do it when I can, but I having 3 kids makes it nearly impossible to do one in one month sometimes.  Hopefully you all that have kids can relate here!  :)
 I am working on the gladiator figure, but I know I wont have it done by the end of the month.  Just wondering.  Thanks!
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Ryan on April 19, 2006, 12:16 AM
guys, I was wondering if maybe on these monthly sessions you could bend the rules a little and still submit stuff like over a month late. I love to customize and do it when I can, but I having 3 kids makes it nearly impossible to do one in one month sometimes. Hopefully you all that have kids can relate here! :)
 I am working on the gladiator figure, but I know I wont have it done by the end of the month. Just wondering. Thanks!

Usually we can give you a week or two of fudge room. We aren't too strict. ;)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 19, 2006, 10:13 AM
actually, got to work a lot on it last night.  I just get worried that I wont make it and I'm really psyched about this one!  :)
Whats up for next month anyways? 
Title: Re: April's Monthly Customizing Challenge - VOTE HERE
Post by: Jeff on April 19, 2006, 02:46 PM
I would guess next month might be one of the runners up from last vote:

Someone make a mental note for future topics - Imperials, Vong, Vehicles...

Or, maybe something completely different!   ;)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jeff on April 24, 2006, 10:31 AM
Man, anyone else hear those crickets chirping in here?

Anyway, I snuck a little time this weekend to start up on my entry.  Not going to be the fanciest custom, but then again, I've never claimed to be the uber-customizer that some of you guys/gals are.   ;)

I'll try to take a WIP picture tonight...
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 24, 2006, 11:13 AM
I've been working like a dog on mine, just havent mentioned it.  I HOPE to have it by the beginning of next week. 
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 24, 2006, 12:32 PM
I can't wait to see what a few more people have planned!  I'm just aggravated with how busy I've been lately and haven't had much customizing time.

 :)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 24, 2006, 12:34 PM
I can't wait to see what a few more people have planned!  I'm just aggravated with how busy I've been lately and haven't had much customizing time.

 :)

I just thought you were taking your much talked about break  ;D
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth_Ennis on April 25, 2006, 01:24 PM
Well, I finally got off my procrastinating arse and finished my entry.

Here's my Wookie Gladiator.

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y257/Darth_Ennis/Star%20Wars%20Customs%20Customs/Clone%20Wars/WookieGladiator1.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y257/Darth_Ennis/Star%20Wars%20Customs%20Customs/Clone%20Wars/WookieGladiator2.jpg)
(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y257/Darth_Ennis/Star%20Wars%20Customs%20Customs/Clone%20Wars/WookieGladiatorback.jpg)

He started out as a dye job wookie I started several months ago. I just added a few G.I.Joe armor parts I had lying around, and I beleive his arm blade came from a Batman peice. The helmet was a Microman chest peice, and his staff came from one of those El Cheapocabra bootleg figs from the Dollar store.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Phrubruh on April 25, 2006, 05:48 PM

(http://www.twcory.com/Gallery/UserFiles/Luke%20Pitt%20Fighter.JPG)
OMG! It's S&M Luke! This one scaries me.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Phrubruh on April 25, 2006, 05:50 PM
Very cool Wookiee DE. I like the helmet that pulls up and the coloring. I think it would have been even better to use a buff ROTS Wookiee. This one is kind of skinny.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 26, 2006, 05:21 PM
That's a unique idea Ennis and very cool.  I agree a buffer Wookiee might look a bit better, but maybe this guy isn't well kept by an owner and isn't fed often.  Plus getting that armor on a bigger Wookiee would be very hard to do I would think as a customizer.  Great work this is a unique custom and great use of parts.

 :)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Smartypants1635 on April 26, 2006, 08:10 PM
Does it really matter how buff he is? If he's ripping yours arms out of their sockets? I think it looks great ennis, the mask and armor are awesome, just like something a Starwars Gladiator would use.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 26, 2006, 10:32 PM
Hi guys,

Ok, I know I started this month with my Psadan gladiator WIP and then vanished until now. Well, I have only Kingdom Hearts 2 to blame. So to make up for lost time, here is the finished sculpt of the Psadan gladiator.

(http://www.geocities.com/wolverine1257/Forum_Picture_Posting/Psadan_Gladiator_2.jpg)

I will be making a mold of it tommarrow and should have a resin cast made this weekend so I can get it painted. I might even add some other armor on the cast just to sproos up the gladiator angle. This for is more for the general Psadan species. This I hope would be a great add on to Chewie's photo novel if he can use them. Anyways, I hope you enjoy the pic and I welcome any comments.

Thanks,

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Smartypants1635 on April 26, 2006, 10:35 PM
yeah Go Ben KH2 rocks my friend I dont balme you.  Any way this guy is awesome He looks like you could unload rounds upon rounds and he'd just laugh. Is he gonna have articulation or is he gonna be a statue.?
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on April 26, 2006, 10:46 PM
Thanks Smartypants,

I do plan on some articulation in the arms, wrists, and and head. Since that big bone is attached to the head, the only thing I could do was to make the head and bone as one piece and then attach the head to the body and let the bone hang freely from the head. As for the arms, I am going to use the ball joint method because of the way the sholders come out. By articulating the wrists, I should get more poses with the arms than to have them just hanging there.

The entery I will be submitting will be a painted "first shot" of this figure. I plan after the challenge to make a wax cast and refine the details so I can have it ready for casting. Like I said, I would love to see this figure used in Chewie's photo novel. It is somewhat generic enough that it can be modified to represent a larger clan or hunting party on Wayland.

Thanks for your input.

Jedi_Master_Ben 
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on April 26, 2006, 11:00 PM
Ben,  As always, your sculpting skills are amazing.  I'm anxious to see this one cast in plastic and painted up!
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on April 26, 2006, 11:46 PM
that is fantastic!  What did you say you sculpted him from? 
Also, I SOOO want to get into the whole casting stuff and was very interested to see that your piece looks to be all one piece right now.  I know you just told us all what you intend to do, but I guess I'm a little lost.  Do you first cut him all up and make molds of each limb, torso, and head?  I guess I'm just too new to the whole process to fully understand right now.
Great work Ben!
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on April 27, 2006, 12:40 AM
You might let me use a cast for a photonovel?  Awesome!  I'm planning on a death arena scene someday (a lot different from the AOTC ones) and that would be a killer guy to have in there).

 :)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jeff on May 1, 2006, 09:35 AM
Ugh, time just got away from me this weekend and I haven't had a chance to finish my figure... guess I'm going to be one of those naughty "late" folks this time around.   :P
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Smartypants1635 on May 2, 2006, 09:21 AM
Yeah, ....... um same here, I just got my custom stuff back so  :-\ I may be like a week late.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: RollaJedi on May 2, 2006, 09:46 AM
me too, since mine's a big one. 
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Darth_Ennis on May 2, 2006, 03:38 PM
Sweet! I made the front page again. Thats twice this month.  ;D I really feel honored.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on May 2, 2006, 04:41 PM
Hi everyone,

I thought I could have the Psadan gladiator done this weekend but I had to take my wife to the hospital to have some surgury done. She is doing fine, but it through my schedule off. Now that she is doing better, I will get back to finnishing this piece up and hope to have the finnal pics up soon.

Jedi_Master_Ben
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Ryan on May 2, 2006, 04:56 PM
Hi everyone,

I thought I could have the Psadan gladiator done this weekend but I had to take my wife to the hospital to have some surgury done. She is doing fine, but it through my schedule off. Now that she is doing better, I will get back to finnishing this piece up and hope to have the finnal pics up soon.

Jedi_Master_Ben

Take all the time you need Ben. We undestand. :)

I just finished my final paper last night so I should be able to get the image thread updated sometime tonight.
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on May 2, 2006, 05:40 PM
Hi everyone,

I thought I could have the Psadan gladiator done this weekend but I had to take my wife to the hospital to have some surgury done. She is doing fine, but it through my schedule off. Now that she is doing better, I will get back to finnishing this piece up and hope to have the finnal pics up soon.

Jedi_Master_Ben

Ben,
Glad to hear that everything is okay at home.  That's obviously the most important thing!!!!

Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: CHEWIE on May 2, 2006, 09:13 PM
Yeah, take care of the family issues first and then hopefully you'll be able to catch up where you want to be back in the customizing addiction.

 :)
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Jedi_Master_Ben on May 9, 2006, 11:22 PM
Hi guys,

Well talk about a weird month!!! I started the Psadan Gladiator at the beginning of April as soon as we decided on the theme. I nailed the front of the figure and then got hung up on what the character looked like from the rear profile. Kingdom Hearts stole me away with Donald and Goofy and Sora and King Mickey ( note: must make Jedi Mickey). Then decided on what the final sculpt will look like. I finish the sculpt only to realize I ran out of molding and casting supplies. I re-ordered supplies and then I had to take my wife to the Hospital for surgery. Whew!!! ::)

Now I would like to thank everyone who has passed on well wishes for my wife, Thank you!!! I would like to thank Ryan for allowing me to enter this figure late, Thanks Ryan ;D! Now for the good stuff!

Last time I posted an updated, I showed you all the final sculpt. I had a few questions regarding the articulation of the figure. I took a pic of the kit cast the way I spit up the figure.

(http://www.geocities.com/wolverine1257/Forum_Picture_Posting/Psadan_Cast.jpg)

As you can see, the intent was that the arms and head would have some articulation in the future kit. For the sake of the MCC, I decided to assemble the figure like a model kit with no articulation since I am only going to take some pictures and then set it on the shelf. I plan on continuing this project in wax to enhance the details and put in the articulation. Consider this phase of the figure as a prototype ;D.

Now I do not post any claims that I know how to paint a figure. I consider myself still a padawan learner when it comes to painting. I look at Chewie's and Hemble's paint jobs and drool. However, I know I cannot leave a figure without color, "it just would not be proper" as C-3PO would put it. So I struggled with the color scheme for a few days and finial decided to follow the description of the psadan at Wikipedia. Here is a 4-point profile of the Psadan Gladiator:

(http://www.geocities.com/wolverine1257/Forum_Picture_Posting/Psadan_Gladiator_all_sides.jpg)

I also made the weapons using styrene sheet cut outs and model parts. Nothing fancy, but effective. And here is the final pic of the Psadan Gladiator for submission:

(http://www.geocities.com/wolverine1257/Forum_Picture_Posting/Psadan_Gladiator_Final.jpg)

I hope you all will enjoy him. He was a lot of fun to make and a real challenge to get him done. Let me know what you all think. Thanks again for everyone’s support on this project.

Jedi_Master_Ben


Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Smartypants1635 on May 9, 2006, 11:25 PM
OMG, man you are excellant, I saw your sculpt and thought this is gonna be one hell of a custom but all painted up its one ultra awesome custom.
 Also don't worry about the paint apps. I think they look great. The weapons are a nice touch too, He kinda looks like a big butcher with a giant cleaver ready to take your arm off. :P
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: Kit Fisto on May 10, 2006, 03:27 AM
Wow dude, he rocks! If you find some time, is it possible to take a pic of him, next to another SW fig you have? Just for scale and reference. And I think your paint apps are really clean and sharp. With a bit of chewie-like weathering, you could really make this guy stand out!
Title: Re: Monthly Customizing Challenge - Month 12: Gladiators
Post by: BrentS on May 10, 2006, 09:41 AM
Ben, your gladiator came out great!   I was hoping you'd come back soon and finish this guy up.  Very impressive.  I think the painting looks very good and I think the styrene based weapons work perfectly.  I'll be interested to see the articulated version in the future!

Welcome back!