|
|
August 29 - September 1, 2019
Hyatt Regency Crystal City
2799 Jefferson Davis Hwy Arlington, VA 22202
|
|
March 15, 2019: Year 10; Edition 6
|
|
Hello, All ~
NOVA Open is nearly sold out – Get your tickets now!
We want to thank all our attendees for helping us hit our best opening registration ever by a wide margin. We also want to warn all other prospective attendees to grab tickets while you still can!
We're nearing 2,000 people signed up for the NOVA Open already, compared to 1100 at this time last year. The 10th Anniversary will truly be an epic event!
Most of the 40K, 30K, Kill Team, FFG, and other events are sold out or nearing sold out. Make CERTAIN you add yourselves to the wait lists (
novaopenstore.com ... go to the sold out event you want to wait list for ... click "Add to Wait List" under the event's image button) for any event/s you're interested in.
Many people "attrit" from registration during the months of lead-up. We have installed an automated wait list notification and transfer system that will effortlessly manage the wait lists by opening spots in the order received.
We are proactively examining our space at this time; if we can to increase seats for our overly sold out events (there are 150 people on the wait list already for the 40K GT alone), we will. Adding your name to wait lists is important because players on wait lists will have first crack at those spots when and if we are able to open them.
Events currently sold out or running out quickly include: Star Wars National Championship tournaments, Horus Heresy, Age of Sigmar, Lord of the Rings, Infinity, most of our seminars, and the list continues to grow.
All that said, we have tons of awesome events with seats waiting for you. These events range from epic painting seminars to board game tournaments, as well as tournaments and organized play gaming activities. Hit up the store and block out that schedule - ensure you've got a full slate of fun things to do . . . even if you're also on a wait list or two for other events!
Finally, we want to thank our attendees for their generosity toward the NOVA Open’s global charity mission. Collectively, you’ve once more improved on your “with registration” contributions to the NOVA Open Charitable Foundation, which – aside from putting on an awesome weekend for all of you – is the primary purpose and reason for the NOVA Open’s existence.
Be aware that we’ve sold out of rooms at the Hyatt. Make CERTAIN you snag a room at the Renaissance next door, as not only is it a possible place for us to expand oversold events, these are the best rooms available if you're not in the Hyatt proper.
We can’t wait to host you at what looks to be one heck of an amazing 10th anniversary celebration!
Welcome to the 10th ANNIVERSARY NOVA Open!
Mike Brandt, NOVA Open CEO
|
|
INTERVIEW:
ALFONSO "BANSHEE" GIRALDES
&
DAVID "BASILISK" MOMMEL
|
NOVA Open is excited to welcome professional miniature artists,
Alfonso “Banshee” Giraldes and
David “Basilisk” Mommel , to lead a series of painting
seminars, including a pre-convention course “
Intro to Color Theory and Ambience.” The two-day workshop – taught by both Giraldes and Mommel – offers participants an in-depth dive into their renowned artistic concepts and how they can be applied to painting wargame miniatures. Between them, Giraldes and Mommel share nearly 30 years of combined professional experience and a growing collection of accolades and awards (including a small army of Golden Daemon statues).
Alfonso “Banshee” Giraldes, lives with his family in Moralzarzal, a small town nestled in the mountains of central Spain, and has been painting miniatures professionally for more than 15 years. Introduced to miniature wargaming as a kid, Giraldes got his start while working behind the counter of a local Games Workshop store. In the years since, he’s worked with most of the major players in the miniature and wargaming world, including Scale 75, CoolMiniOrNot and Forge World.
Aside from his work as a concept artist, studio painter, sculptor and art director, Giraldes also teaches – an endeavor that’s taken him around the world, to over 30 cities and across 17 countries. Most recently, he’s partnered up with Mommel, to teach students online via the
Banshee Miniature Art Academy, where they both work produce high quality video lessons for every skill level and interest.
Both Giraldes and Mommel are committed to teaching hobbyists to improve their skills and push the limits of their abilities.
“I love teaching – it is my main professional activity in my career and I am sure that I can bring great content and open some wargamers up to a new world of deep knowledge and different goals as well as help them achieve good painting solutions and to create fantastic pieces that will look awesome on the battlefield,” said Giraldes. “I come to bring something good to the NOVA Open community!”
Giraldes’ partner, Mommel, is also from Spain. His introduction into the hobby as a child was through painting model airplanes with his father. After attending school to become a physical trainer and osteopath, Mommel - who also manages the Chromatic Circle Paint Studio - now paints miniatures full time.
“Painting is now my first job, but I work also in a school as manager of sportive activities for children. In addition, I sometimes help others as an osteopath,” said Mommel. “I love teaching and helping others to improve their lives, no matter if it´s related to their health or any other topic – I find it very satisfying.”
Last fall (2018), Giraldes and Mommel teamed up to launch their online Miniature Painting Academy on Patreon, which currently has over 400 students enrolled – a great point of pride for both artists.
Giraldes is most inspired by classical painters, particularly the post-impressionist Spanish artist, Sorrola, who rejected the limitations of impressionism by combined vivid, thick applications of color with emphasized geometric forms, unrealistic palettes and expressive effects.
Which is why he created the “F##k Smoothness” movement – an approach that challenges the classical rules of miniature painting by encouraging people to embrace any style or method.
“The more we look back to the classical masters, the more we realize how painting is not something constrained to “just do gradients,” said Giraldes; “Painting can be brushstrokes, soul, attitude, storytelling, composition, and many other elements that creates the final image of a piece of art.”
“We can drive miniatures to an art form, and the best way to do that is to educate the beginning painters that are just discovering their own path, without any limits or restrictions,” said Giraldes.
To Giraldes, art means freedom.
THREE MORE INSTRUCTOR INTERVIEWS BELOW!
|
|
10TH ANNIVERSARY LIMITED EDITION ITEMS:
NOVA Open's "COAT OF ARMS"
German Beer Stein & Hockey Jersey
|
|
We have promised a lot of surprises and unique 10th Anniversary items and activities for our attendees. The Beer Stein and Hockey Jersey described below, are among the "coolness," sporting our
amazing NOVA Open Coat of Arms!
This brilliant artwork was created by Andres Jimenez, who worked at NOVA Open as a graphic design associate intern 2014-2015, making the art that much more personal to the staff. Though he moved on, he's never been very far away, always available to help us with special projects.
Andres was a graduating senior at VCU in Richmond during his internship, and was immediately hired by Media General MGFX; he currently works for WTVR CBS6 in Richmond. He has racked up very impressive awards since, to include an Emmy Award and Emmy Nomination in 2018; he also received a 2016 MGFX Certificate of Excellence for Motion Design, as well as two MGFX Certificates of Excellence for Graphic Design (2014, 2016).
We are limiting the runs of these amazing products to just 100, which means they could sell out before NOVA Open 2019. Don't miss out on a piece of history - and honor our past intern in the process - follow the links to our store below!
Learn more about Andres Jimenez
HERE.
|
|
2019 10th ANNIVERSARY BEER STEIN
|
|
|
|
Pre-Order Pricing: $80.00
NOVA Open has enlisted the finest ceramic manufacturer in Germany to produce this commemorative 10th Anniversary "NOVA APERTA" Coat of Arms Beer Stein. King Werk products are hand-made by true artisans and 100% German made. The artwork is developed on specialty decals by a local company, applied to the clay and and left to dry overnight. The stein is then glazed and kiln fired. The company is located in the city of Hohr-Grenzhausen in historic Westerwald, Germany’s Western forest. Own a piece of our history, and theirs, when you purchase one of these beautiful 17-oz, 10" tall, collectible, limited run beer steins. When they're gone, they're gone! Look for the KING trademark to guarantee you have this authentic, hand painted, long lasting, high quality German stein.
FINAL PRE-SALES: JULY 1, 2019 - $90.00 AT THE CONVENTION
|
|
2019 10th ANNIVERSARY HOCKEY JERSEY
|
|
Pre-Order Pricing: $95.00
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary, the NOVA Open is for the first time ever offering a special limited edition Hockey Jersey. This is one high-quality product made with Pro Weight Jersey Material (210g/m2). Super customized with the new NOVA Aperta Coat of Arms! Order yours by July 1, 2019; study the size chart to the right to ensure fit!
FINAL PRE-SALES: JULY 1, 2019 - $100.00 AT THE CONVENTION
|
|
|
WARHAMMER CHAMPIONS
The Card Game Comes to NOVA Open 2019!
|
|
NOVA Open - EVEN BETTER! is what PlayFusion is calling its inaugural Warhammer Champions 2-Day Tournament event . . . a first in the US! It will be at the Hyatt Regency as a series of many fund and unique gaming events as well as the Tournament. Space will be limited to 100 players.
The registration fee of $40 will be donated to the
NOVA Open Charitable Foundation - so plan to arrive early this year and join in the fun while supporting a great cause! Join the Warhammer Champions crew for an incredible selection of side events featuring drafts events, beginner sealed deck events, league, constructed and sealed tournaments.
|
|
Now that registration for NOVA Open 2019 is in full swing, many players are contacting Customer Service with questions. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions:
HOW DO I DROP AN EVENT OR SEMINAR?
- Log in to your account at novaopenstore.com.
- Click on the event(s) that you want to drop, one by one.
- Click on the Drop event button that's below the icon & schedule for the event.
- The system will automatically give you store credit for the amount you paid.
- Your credit can be used for any NOVA Open 2019 or 2020 events or seminars .
HOW DO I TRANSFER AN EVENT OR SEMINAR?
- Log in to your account at novaopenstore.com.
- Click on the transfer button in the orange banner at the top right of the page.
- Click on the event/seminar you wish to transfer.
- Fill in the requested information to complete the transfer.
- You will need the Account ID# for the person to whom you're transferring the event/seminar. They can find that ID# on the manage account page that is accessed by logging in to their account & clicking on their user name at the top right of the page.
- The person to whom you're transferring must have a Convention Access Pass or Day pass.
NOVA Open does not facilitate transfers, nor do we assist with or manage any monetary transactions between buyer and seller.
HOW DO I GET MY NAME ADDED TO A WAITING LIST?
- Log in to your account at novaopenstore.com.
- Click on the game system/category for the event for which you want to be waitlisted.
- When the page opens, scroll to the event & click on the "add to waitlist" button that's just below the icon & schedule for the event.
- Once you click there, you'll automatically be added to the waiting list.
- If your name reaches the top of the waiting list and an entry is available, you'll receive an automated email, offering you that entry.
|
|
The Hyatt and Renaissance are both offering 50% off their usual rates for parking during the convention. We wanted to make sure you were also aware that a Colonial parking garage is also nearby. While we are unaware of their rates, they should be less than hotel.
2733 Crystal Dr
Arlington, VA 22202
Would also warn against moving once they're parked. With over 3000 expected, the spaces will fill as quickly as they're emptied.
|
|
Book at Renaissance Today ~ Going Fast!
|
|
NOVA Open Blocked 100 Doubles
We Can Add More at the NOVA Open rate
|
|
LOOK WHAT RENAISSANCE IS DOING FOR THE NOVA OPEN
|
|
- One half-block behind the Hyatt ~ you can't get closer to the convention
- Renaissance is a 5-Star Property
- Doubles and Kings Available
- Book at $98 per night
- 20% off bar and restaurant - must show badge
- Free wi-fi for Marriott Rewards members - click to join now
- Cell Reception Available in All Areas of Hotel
- Complimentary Shuttles to DCA and Metro
- Massive parking garage; 50% discount for self-parking
|
|
The Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel
2800 South Potomac Avenue
Arlington, VA, 22202
|
|
|
|
RESEARCH & PREP IS KEY!
STUDY THE SCHEDULE; BE READY AT 8PM EST TONIGHT
|
The 2019 NOVA Open schedule is finalized!
Make it a point to check back here often for additions/changes.
|
|
PRE-CON EVENTS - TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE
|
|
SUNDAY - TUESDAY EVENTS
WEDNESDAY EVENTS
|
|
CONVENTION ACCESS PASSES (CAPS), DAY PASES & PREMIUM SWAG BAGS
|
- A Convention Access Pass (CAP) is required to attend the NOVA Open; it is good fro Wednesday-Sunday. Single day passes are also available if one does not wish to attend the entire convention.
- CAPs and Day Passes are non-refundable, non-transferable items.
- The Early Bird pricing on the CAP is $50 (until April 15th); the cost will go up to $60 at 11:59pm EST the night of April 15, 2018. Each Day Pass is $20.
- There are two upgrades available which require the purchase of a CAP: SuperNOVA and DwarfNOVA. When you place an upgrade in your cart, a CAP will automatically be added and you will purchase both at checkout.
- The only people who will receive one of the NOVA Open's Premium Swag bags will be the "First 400" who purchase CAPs (and all 150 SuperNOVA upgrades). This is based on registration date alone.
- If a "First 400" cannot attend: The swag bag is forfeited unless arrangements are made ahead of time with Marti Seraphin (customerservice.com) for a friend to pick it up. NOVA Open will not ship.
- Use of board games from the NOVA Open library and/or participation in side events scheduled in that hall are free to those with a Pass; however, Board Game tournaments which confer prizes will require a nominal fee. If Board Game activities are planned in the Foundation Lounge, two drink tokens will be exchanged for a required $10 registration fee, as the Lounge is a fundraising venue for NOCF.
|
|
2019 NOVA OPEN GAMING EVENTS
|
|
EVENT PRIMERS FOR NOVA OPEN 2019
|
|
What game and events are on your NOVA Open radar this year? Study the list to help prepare for registration on Mar 1st!
Primers can change up until and after registration, and leads are highly responsive to commentary and input.
with your thoughts or questions.
We'll track changes in the newsletter and within each draft primer doc, so you're always aware of any tweaks and updates moving forward.
Click any event title to see the Primer. If your event is not linked here, visit
novaopenstore.com in a few days - they will be available for viewing there.
|
|
|
Breaking News! Infinity Seminar Sold out... but do not despair, 20
more seats have been added! Also, only a dozen player slots remain for the 2 day
Infinity ITS Battle for the Beltway III. Events are filling up quickly: Registration has only been open for 2 weeks! So Sign up now or miss out!
|
|
Pre-Order Pricing: $23.00
Pre-order your commemorative 10th Anniversary NOVA Open T-Shirt when registration opens at 8:00 PM MARCH 1ST! This is the best way to guarantee you have the size that works for you. Pre-sale items can be picked up during convention check in.
Two-Sided ... Hmmmmm? What's on the back?
FINAL PRE-SALES: JULY 1, 2019 - RESERVE THE SIZE YOU WANT BEFORE THEN! $25.00 AT THE CONVENTION!
|
|
|
|
|
PRE-ORDER FOR $25.00
Marc Raley, NOVA Open's 30K lead, believes in the generosity and compassion of those who attend the convention. To that end, he has created another awesome shirt design, "NOVA Heresy 2019. " The shirt is available now for pre-sale.
Proceeds from the sale of each shirt, over and above cost, will be donated to the NOVA Open Charitable Foundation.
A limited number of shirts and sizes will also be available at NOVA Open 2019 for $30.00.
FINAL PRE-SALES: JULY 1, 2019 - RESERVE THE SIZE YOU WANT BEFORE THEN!
|
|
Pre-Order Pricing: $22.00
The Commemorative 10-Year Anniversary Mug will undergo a Deep Etch! According to Mike, "It's Sexy!" This is a proof photo - next time, the real thing.
Pre-Order your NOVA Open Beer Mug when registration opens at 8:00 PM MARCH 1ST! Bring your 2019 NOVA Open beer mug to the Foundation Lounge during the convention and get $1 off every draft beer you order! Pre-sale items can be picked up during convention check in.
FINAL PRE-SALES: JULY 1, 2019 - $25.00 AT THE CONVENTION
|
|
|
Only
$8.00
The NOVA Open is pleased to offer its 10th Anniversary Convention Coin, another proud graphic original designed by Roy Scales currently being finalized with the manufacturer. Pre-sale items can be picked up during convention check in.
FINAL PRE-SALES: JULY 1, 2019! $10.00 AT THE CONVENTION
|
|
|
Only $40.00
If you trust the usual high standards of our NOVA Open graphic designers, go ahead and buy your X-Wing Mat today. We're a bit behind, but very excited to assure you the design will be available for viewing in our next newsletter on March 15.
PRE-SALES END: JULY 1, 2019! $45.00 AT THE CONVENTION
|
|
|
PRE-CON SPECIAL EVENT SEMINAR
|
Banshee & Basilisk will teach a 2-Day Intro to Color Theory and Ambiance.
Plan to attend/space will be limited to 20: Monday-Tuesday, August 26-27
|
|
ARE YOU A CORVUS BELLI FAN?
|
Join
Corvus Belli lead developer Gutier Lusquiños for a unique personal breakout session that will give Infinity and Aristeia fans a chance to get an insider’s look into the company. Gutier will discuss the intricacies of the company’s design process for its games and rules as well as its history and growth. The
seminar, which is $10, will be held from 7:00 to 8:30 PM on Saturday, October 31, 2019. This is an exclusive opportunity at NOVA Open 2019, so register for the
seminar today!
|
|
GAMES WORKSHOP TO HOST PREVIEW EVENT AND OTHER SEMINARS AT NOVA OPEN 2019
|
The
Games Workshop Preview Event is Sold Out, but do not hesitate to add your name to the wait list if you'd like to take a shot at joining the Warhammer Studio and Community Team for an exclusive first look at what’s in store for Warhammer fans in 2019.
Wednesday, Aug 28, 2019 from 7:00-8:30 PM at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City. A Convention Access Pass (CAP) or Day Pass is required to attend this exciting Preview Event.
Check out
Games Workshop: Meet the Studio: Join Games Workshop studio head Pete Foley and legendary games designer Jervis Johnson as they explore just how they brought the latest games from the 41st Millennium and the Mortal Realms to life. This is your chance to find out how your favourite games are made. From how new armies are designed, to the thinking behind your favourite codexes and battletomes, there will never be a better time to ask those burning questions you’ve always wanted answers to.
Check out
Games Workshop: Developing the Community: Join the Warhammer Community team as we discuss what it’s like to talk about Warhammer for a living and what you have to look forward to in the coming months. During the presentation, you’ll have the chance to check out the latest community initiatives give us your feedback. Make your voice heard – if you’ve got a great suggestion, we want to hear it, so come along!
|
|
MINIATURE
ART STUDIOS TEACHING
AT NOVA OPEN 2019
|
|
The NOVA Open Tabletop Wargaming Convention and the NOVA Open Charitable Foundation are extremely fortunate to have built wonderful relationships with the key artists and team talents of several miniature art studios over the years. Do not miss a chance to take classes with these amazing instructors. When you do, remember to thank them for the compassion and generosity they bring to the charitable works of our Foundation.
Wes Cogdal, lead designer for SNS, has been attending and sponsoring NOVA Open since 2011. In 2013, when the NOVA Open Charitable Foundation (
NOCF) began, Wes painted one of the original three armies for that year's online raffles:
House of the Silent King. He has been an active contributor to those raffles every year since. It took a while to convince Wes that seminar instruction was a good fit, but we're glad we did. NOVA Open attendees look forward to learning from him more and more each year. Check out the SNS class offerings at
SEMINARS.
Caleb Wissenback, the fearless leader of a talented Band of Talented Artists, cut his instructor chops at NOVA Open 2012. A strong supporter of the Convention, and a contributing member of the
NOCF Artist Consortium, Caleb has become one of the best known instructors around. CK Studios exists because of the combined talents of Caleb and his incredible business partner, Kat Jackson. NOVA Open is thrilled to have four members of the CK Studio team teaching this year: Caleb, Vincent Venturella, Sam Lenz and Justin Keefer. Go to - and with the strong support of his business partner, Kat Jackson. Check out the CK Studio class offerings at
SEMINARS.
Pay special attention to the Friday evening "
MEET CK STUDIOS" seminar, where you'll have a chance to hear their stories and learn about how they brought this year's
NOCF Warlord Titan to life!
Caleb Dillon, of White Metal Games, began attending NOVA Open in 2016. It took him a couple years, but Caleb decided to start the WMG venture into teaching seminars at NOVA Open 2018. The classes were all well received and, once again, our attendees were able to enjoy new instructors sharing great tips and tricks. Caleb and his team are back with fresh ideas. Check out the WMG class offerings at
SEMINARS. Caleb/WMG joined the NOCF Artist Consortium last year, as well - and Caleb has stepped into a lead role for this year's online Raffles.
|
|
NOVA OPEN 2019 SEMINAR SCHEDULE
|
|
NOVA Open is honored to announce the return of many renowned artists and instructors to its 10
th
Anniversary Seminar Schedule. We are also pleased to introduce artists and instructors who will be joining NOVA Open for the first time on this special year. The list is long and growing, classes are diverse, and the choices extensive.
When www.novaopenstore.com goes live (on or about Feb 15), spend some study time reviewing the classes offered and course descriptions from:
Mike Brandt of NOVA Open - hosting a 40K Playtesting & Panel Seminar
Justin Keefer (aka "Keefer of Secrets") of
CK Studios
Joe Kopena, a NOVA Open Lead skilled in 3D Modeling & Printing
Games Workshop, Fantasy Flight Games, Steamforged and Privateer Press will present community seminars with Q&A, as well.
|
|
PREPARE FOR THE 2019 TABLETOP OLYMPICS
|
The Tabletop Olympics (TTO), which started in 2014, is a free personal achievement and group competition where anyone who attends the NOVA Open can participate. Players accumulate personal "forever achievement points" and can also form groups of 3 to 20 people to compete against other groups. Points can be amassed individually and/or combined with other attendees if individuals band together for group points. In addition to tracking points for teams during NOVA Open 2019, we will also keep track of cumulative points for individuals that accumulate across NOVA Open conventions.
If individuals form groups, they need a Point of Contact (POC/Captain) and a group name. The POC must verify the name is not already taken by registering it with the NOVA Open. POC must also submit/verify list of NOVA Open registered members. We recommend that individuals form groups early; groups can consist of individuals participating in a range of point generating activities..
Groups must email
customerservice@novaopen.com to register groups. Registration for TTO is open through August 15; it is reopened onsite at the NOVA Open registration desk.
In addition to earning points by participating in activities, teams can also earn points through team spirit and good sportsmanship. If a team is witnessed by the NOVA Open Staff supporting their fellow team members in a tournament through cheering or wearing team shirts, they will be awarded bonus points depending how strong their team spirit is. If the NOVA Open Staff witnesses a team member going out of their way to help individuals, they will also be awarded bonus points that is up to the discretion of the staff member.
Winning Group and Winning Individual will have their names permanently emblazoned on the NOVA Open Olympic Torch Trophy. As a participant in the Tabletop Olympics, every individual point earned equals an additional chance of winning a prize in the Final Ceremony Raffles; Check-in required (which adds another entry in your name!) Must be present to win.
|
|
WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS
|
At the NOVA Open, we believe when life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade. Therefore, we run the annual Lemonade Raffle - where you can win for losing! In order to be eligible, you must have lost at least one of your tournament games. If you are not playing in a tournament, you are not eligible for the Lemonade Raffle. For every tournament round you lose, your event's Lead will enter your name into our raffle pool. This does not apply to non-tournament pickup games. For example, if you lose one (1) round, you will have one (1) entry in the Lemonade Raffle, if you lose five (5) rounds, you will have five (5) entries in the Lemonade Raffle, and so on. Tournament organizers for your specific game system/s will be responsible for entering your name into the raffle pool.
The Lemonade Raffle occurs Friday through Sunday. There are typically four (4) drawings a day, with 20-30 prizes being given away every three (3) hours or so.Throughout the weekend, over 300 Lemonade Raffle items are awarded with prize values escalating as the convention nears its end on Sunday evening. The NOVA Open staff will attempt to delivery prizes to you, but it never hurts to stop by the Lemonade Raffle desk now and then to see if you're a winner!
|
|
ARTISTS PREP YOUR BRUSHES!
SEVENTH ANNUAL CAPITAL PALETTE COMPETITION
|
|
The NOVA Open convention invites hobbyists and artists to proudly display their work in Capital Palette, a juried, open-forum award, miniature art competition. A 3-judge panel including; Dave Taylor (Head Judge), Roman Lappat, and Matt DiPietro, will award gold, silver, and bronze accomplishment awards for six (6) categories across three (3) divisions. In an open forum competition, there can be multiple gold, silver, or bronze winners in a category (or no winners), and each submitting artists’ work is individually evaluated and receives the level of award the judges feel their work merits, without regard to the awards given to other pieces in the competition.
Three (3) Divisions were added in 2018, submitting artists can use this format to better judge the progress of their work from show to show, without concerns about what other artists may create.Check the NOVA Open schedule for exact time and location of the Capital Palette Medaling Ceremony, which always takes place on Sunday afternoon.
Additionally, the judging panel (see below) will select one model in each category as the Best in Category winner. One of the Best in Category finalists will be chosen as the overall Best in Show winner. Convention attendees will select a Fan Favorite from among all submissions.
APPRENTICE JUDGE PANEL
Wes Cogdal, David Jenson, Alex Goode
JOURNEYMAN JUDGE PANEL
Dave Taylor, Marc Raley, Jeff Jenkins
MASTERCLASS JUDGE PANEL
Roman Lappat, Matt DiPietro, Sam Lenz
|
|
NOVA OPEN CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
(NOCF)
|
|
THE BIG NEWS FIRST:
JK Woodward, comic book artist best known for Fallen Angel and Star Trek illustrations, will be donating
ORIGINAL/SIGNED artwork to the NOCF Silent Auction at NOVA Open 2019. Enjoy browsing through his galleries:
Follow JK Woodward:
|
|
NOCF will be running only one international online raffle in 2019 - with nearly 40 items currently slated!
Tickets will go on sale July 1 and end September 1 at 12:00pm EST. Winners will be announced at NOVA Open's final awards ceremony that night.
The NOCF will be undergoing a re-brand and updating its website in the coming months. Watch for the reveal here.
When NOVA Open attendees check out of the store during registration, they are invited to consider a donation to NOCF. We are blow away by their generosity, as the two-week total since opening on March 1 is nearly $1,200!
The artists involved with our online raffles select the charity their item will support from the top three organizations NOCF has supported since inception in 2013: Doctors Without Borders, Fisher House Foundation and Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
90% of every dollar spent on tickets during the online raffles is donated directly to the named charity; the remaining money covers US and International PayPal fees as well as Shipping Costs.
We started with three armies in our first raffle; we are approaching 40 items that will ship around the world in 2019.
We started with three artists; this year, there are over 110 members in the NOCF Artist Consortium.
|
|
Under the crazy mad project management skills of Caleb’s business partner, Kat Jackson, the Warlord Titan is off to a grand start. Please join us in thanking this incredible team for their support, and sign on to follow the progress
HERE.
|
|
|
Teams from the Heresy community have come together to donate time, money and models for the creation of the White Scars Chogorian Brotherhood and Night Lords Zone Mortalis Strike Force Armies. You can find updates on the website for The Remembrancers' Retreat
HERE.
|
|
The Foundation Lounge, located on the rooftop level of the Hyatt Regency hotel, Chesapeake View, throughout the NOVA Open convention, is run by volunteers for the NOVA Open Charitable Foundation. Proceeds support the continued work of the Foundation, as well as other named charities.
The Foundation Lounge has become the go-to place for attendees, where relaxing with old friends and making new ones after long days of gaming at the convention just comes naturally. The Lounge opens at 11:00am every day with last call is at 1:00am. Come on up to visit this year. There's always something going on at this fully stocked bar, where you'll meet industry experts chatting about their businesses, participate in raffles, join board games, enjoy sumptuous snacks and (on occasional) listen to a live band!
The NOVA Open will be underway by mid-afternoon on Wednesday, August 28 - and the Lounge will follow with a 6:00pm opening that day. Make a point to spend some time with us this year! Watch newsletters for a sneak peek at the daily activities being planned.
|
|
SUPPORT THE GAMERS' CHARITY, NOCF
|
It's easier than ... well, just about anything!
Just heard from a supporter: It took less than a minute!
Log Onto Smile.Amazon.Com
Choose NOVA Open Charitable Foundation
Shop Amazon!
JUST CLICK:
|
|
SEMINAR INSTRUCTOR & NOCF ARTIST
JOE WHITE
|
|
Over the last few years, the NOVA Open has sought to help nurture the next generation of hobbyists by offering events for kids like Age of Sigmar KidsHammer. For the 10th Anniversary NOVA Open, children and first-time painters will have the opportunity to work with
Joe White, founder and owner of
Smooth Blend Studio, to learn more about painting miniatures. “I'm totally psyched about getting young wargamers some good basic miniature painting skills,” he said, noting “I'm looking forward to helping beginners get past any stigma they may have about getting painted minis onto the table.”
While many NOVA Open attendees figuratively stumble into the hobby by accident, Joe picked up painting due a real accident. After a cycling accident in November 2015 left him resting at home, the avowed Star Wars fan picked up Fantasy Flight’s Imperial Assault miniatures game. “I had no idea how to paint these things, so I searched on YouTube for a painting tutorial and found Sorastro's step-by-step painting tutorials,” he said, noting that his background as a former army soldier gave him discipline to practice for hours. His interest in miniatures games and painting led him to pick up Games Workshop’s Age of Sigmar. “I loved the 'high fantasy' theme and the models are spectacular, he said, “I would follow the Games Workshop videos, which again are a great place to start.”
You can read the rest of Joe's Interview
HERE.
|
|
SEMINAR INSTRUCTOR & NOCF ARTIST
ERIK SWINSON
|
|
Now that the schedule for NOVA Open 2019 is coming together and our excellent series of Seminars is available for registration online, we thought that it would be a good time to introduce the people who really make the Seminars tick – our wonderful Seminar Instructors!
Erik Swinson comes to us from just down the road in Virginia Beach, VA. A 33-year-old web developer by day, he loves peanut butter pretzel nuggets, energy drinks and gives in to the powerful temptation to lick his paintbrush!
You can read the rest of Joe's Interview
HERE.
|
|
SEMINAR INSTRUCTOR & NOCF ARTIST
VINCE VENTURELLA
|
|
We continue our series of interviews on NOVA Open’s 2019 Seminar instructors with Vince Venturella. If you are interested in attending a seminar taught by Vince, or any of our talented instructors, be sure to check out our
Seminars page on the
NOVA Open store.
Vince Venturella is an award-winning painter who has work has won acclaim at Gen-Con, CMON Expo, Golden Demon, and NOVA’s own Capital Palette. Vince hails from Columbus, Ohio, where he works on the software side of the insurance industry. He has been playing Warhammer and painting for just over two decades now, ever since he fell into a Skaven gnawhole at a game store in 1998. In 2013, he made the decision to commit to competitive painting, YouTube, and the teaching scene.
You can read the rest of Joe's Interview
HERE.
|
|
VENDORS AT NOVA OPEN 2019
|
|
NOVA Open is excited to announce that the following vendors are locked in and will be there for you at NOVA Open 2019:
|
|
WANT YOUR FOOD TRUCK AT NOVA OPEN 2019?
|
|
Food Trucks are already reaching out to NOVA Open for spots at our 2019 convention. We want to know which trucks YOU (OUR ATTENDEES) want to see again.
The following are planning to be at NOVA Open 2019:
|
|
THE 2019 NOVA Open
TERRAIN BUILDING SEASON
IS UNDER WAY!
|
Saturday, March 9th, was our second terrain event of the 2019 season. On February 16, we inventoried - on the 9th, we tackled "repair and refresh" on 750 terrain pieces! The day started early with set-up and breakfast from Panera. We set a new record, setting up a whopping 10 Grex Airbrush stations. We also set up 4 repair stations, which were kept busy all day. Another first was the use of generators at our build site. They worked like a charm!
More than 20 people joined us for a day of paint, repairs, and food. Mike Brandt put on an apron and grilled up some fantastic chow. As always, the food was amazing. At the end of the day, we were able to refurbish nearly 500 pieces of terrain and plan to finish the rest before lunch at the next session.
If you are a NOVA Open Lead, be there! If you're a volunteer or staff member, support this massive project. There can never be too many people at these fun and exciting adventure days!
Our next build is March 23rd!
If you are not on the current Evite list (you'd know, the first two have already gone out), and would like to join the team, have a great day, and make dozens of new friends, please contact
customerservice@novaopen.com.
TELEGRAPH SELF STORAGE
8935 TELEGRAPH RD, LORTON, VA 22079
|
|
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
2019 TERRAIN BUILDS (dates are subject to change)
START BY JOINING THEM TOMORROW
9am - 5pm
|
|
March 23
April 13
April 27
May 11
May 25
|
|
June 8
June 22
June 29 (if needed)
July 13
July 27
|
|
VOLUNTEER/INTERNSHIPS OPPORTUNITIES
|
|
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED ~ INTERNSHIPS AVAILABLE
|
|
NOVA Open extends its sincere appreciation to all those who volunteer in support of NOVA Open and the NOVA Open Charitable Foundation. These two organizations are looking for year-round volunteers with any interest in supporting their missions.
INTERNSHIPS ARE IMPORTANT POSITIONS FOR COLLEGE AND WORK APPLICATIONS!
If you enjoy the NOVA Open and being a part of the charitable work of NOCF - and you have the time and energy to put into year-round volunteering - please send us an email telling us a little about yourself and your experience with NOVA Open:
customerservice@novaopen.com
This is also a great opportunity for high school and college students and graduates. NOVA Open has a long history of providing internships to enhance college and job applications. Internships in the convention and event planning arena are hard to come by, and those with non-profits are very difficult to attain. If you have a son or daughter, family member or friend, who may be in need of an internship, send them our way using the customer service email above.
Everything you need to know about volunteering at the NOVA Open can be found on our website by clicking the button below.
|
|
HOTEL BLOCKS FOR NOVA OPEN 2019
|
|
HYATT REGENCY SOLD OUT THURSDAY - SUNDAY
|
|
BOOK HYATT SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY
Attend the Pre-Con Events!
It is always smart
to check the Hyatt block now and then
to see if anyone cancelled their reservation.
|
|
LOOK WHAT THE HYATT'S DOING FOR THE NOVA OPEN
|
|
- Entire Hyatt Event Space Reserved for the NOVA Open
- Room Rates at $98 (single occupancy)
- More double rooms available in the NOVA Open Block
- Cell Reception Available in All Areas of Hotel
- 50% off In-Room Wi-Fi
- Free In-Room Wi-Fi for Gold Passport Members - Sign Up Today
- 50% off Valet Parking
- 20% off Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner at the Hotel Restaurant, Cinnabar - Show Your Convention Badge!
- $4 Hyatt-Selected Beer for NOVA Open Guests THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE EVENT
|
|
The Hyatt Regency Crystal City
2799 Jefferson Davis Highway
Arlington, VA, 22202
|
|
Atlantis Games and Comics
|
|
|
|
Warhammer Age of Sigmar Champions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
