Hi Paul,
I just wanted to say thank you for writing your book. I had previously
purchased it in pdf format, and enjoyed it immensely. Just this
evening, I discovered you've made it available in paperback format and
ordered it immediately!
I've been a fan of your work on the Enterprise since I was, well...10
years old. Seeing that ship on the big screen for the first time with
your paintwork inspired a sense of awe in my young mind that has stuck
with me to this day, 34 years later. I received the only available
Enterprise model kit for Christmas that year, and set about trying to
build my own. I sat for hours staring at the photographs on the box
pondering how on earth I could paint all those wonderful patterns onto
my model. Of course, back then I had no concept of pearl paints, or
airbrushes for that matter. So, I was rather confounded. At one point,
I even wrote a letter to Paramount asking how it was done... never did
get an answer. So, it was several years before I could take a crack at
realistic "Aztecing" myself.
A few years ago, I tackled the newly available 1/350 Polar Lights kit.
I made use of all the information in the "how to" section on your
website. I made a special point to use automotive lacquers, rather than
acrylics or other hobby paints. What you say about lacquers melting
into one another and fusing to make new colors is absolutely correct,
and a wonderful effect! I wouldn't do it any other way. I even masked
and sprayed each panel individually, rather than entire sections of the
model at a time as I've seen others do. Overall, I think it all came
out rather well.
I took the ship to Wonderfest in Louisville KY in 2009, and entered it
into the model contest. This was the first time I had ever entered a
model of any kind into any contest, and honestly wasn't expecting much.
There were literally hundreds of other models there, all expertly
finished. To my amazement, I took home both a gold award, and the award
for "Best Vehicle and Hardware"! Several of my modeling friends told me
I should send some pictures to you, but I guess I just didn't have the
guts. Plus, I figured you've probably been bugged by enough inspiring
modelers already. I guess tonight, I'll use my book order as my excuse
for sending you a few pictures!
Very soon, I'll be gearing up to build another movie Enterprise. This
time, however, it will be a fiberglass studio scale version just like
your original. My wife thinks I'm crazy, and says there's no place in
our house for an 8ft long starship, but I've already accumulated a
number of the sub-assemblies. and am totally committed to the
project...she'll get used to the idea :). At any rate, I hope you don't
mind if I pop up once in a while and ask a question or two, or share a
picture!
Alright, I won't take up any more of your time. I do very much
appreciate your reading this email and looking over my pictures. Thank
you once again, for all you've contributed both to Star Trek, and all
the other art you've created through the years. Truly an inspiration!
Regards,
Matt Davis, Granville, Ohio.
p.s.
Speaking of Wonderfest, I think you would be the ideal guest. In fact,
I even brought your name up once on their Facebook page when the
organizers were asking for guest suggestions. I'm sure if you were to
give a talk on painting the big E, it would be standing room only!
