[JohnReid]

Ok folks,here goes installment #1 on building a Jenny diorama.First let me be clear on a few things before we begin this build.Even though they use my Albatros diorama for their advertising,I am and have never been connected in any way with the Model Expo company.I build their models because I enjoy working in 1/16th scale. All kits are courtesy of my pocketbook.Now a little on my philosophy of diorama building.The most important factor in doing a good diorama,I beleive,is to tell a story,to capture a moment in time ,to take the viewer back to a different era and to hopefully raise an emotional response to what is being seen and thereby create a three dimentional work of art.In my work,I am not a purist or a rivet counter,however I do like to have lots of detail to keep it interesting.I try to be as accurate as I can but I will use artistic licence for effect.I strive for overall visual impact. My idea for this diorama was to take probably one of the most important airplanes in aviation history and try to tell a story of its contributions to aviation over its long hittory .I wanted to find a way to combine its significance both as a WW1 trainer and a post war barnstormer.That is when I thought of the idea of having WW1 figures dressed in uniform attending an armistic day celebration an an airport during the 20s.They are watching an old military Jenny being converted to a barnstormer.Then,when I had the unforseen opportunity to buy a 2nd Jenny(as an offer I couldnt refuse) I then changed the story a little in order to show the differences between the Canuck and JN4c versions.One being robbed for parts to complete the other.(even this is not set in stone as I may change my ideas as I go along)That is the fun you have when you are in control.Acting like a creator so to speak.That is the great thing about art ,it allows you to control at least one thing in a uncontrollable world.You create it and you say when it is finished.Fun huh! Next time we will start the actual build.Cheers! John.