More Than 150 Beautiful Models Under One Roof

Elegant shapes, graceful lines and attention to detail come together to fashion some of the most beautiful figures ever to appear on the Halifax waterfront.

This weekend, Feb. 13-14, more than 150 model ships and boats will be on display at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in Halifax --home to one of the finest and largest ship model collections in Canada.

This year marks the 15th Annual Modelmakers' Showcase, Nova Scotia's largest show of ship and boat models, organized by the Maritime Ship Model Guild and the Maritime Museum. More than 70 model-builders from across Nova Scotia will be displaying their works at what promises to be the largest show in the event's history.

"The tradition of building ship models is rooted in the tremendous interest individuals have in recognizing and preserving our marine heritage," said museum director Michael Murray. "Ship and boat models provide us with valuable information on design and how vessels have changed to meet a variety of needs. The research undertaken by many of the model-makers adds a tremendous amount of new knowledge to our understanding of the past."

In 1984, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic designated February as Model Boat Month, and Modelmakers Showcase is always the feature event. The building of ship models is a centuries-old tradition that is being kept alive by hundreds of people across the province. Model Boat Month gives the museum a chance to share this wonderful tradition, as well as provide an opportunity to showcase the talents of today's model-makers.

The showcase is an interactive event for all ages, with model-building demonstrations, illustrated talks on topics from techniques and tools to radio-controlled models, and two mini-Titanic model workshops for children aged six to 14. Workshop space is limited, to first come, first served.

Organizers of the event are also issuing a challenge to all young model-makers. Whether it is a ship or boat model built from scratch or from a kit, any young person willing to participate in the showcase is encouraged to bring their models in during the event.

The showcase will take place Saturday, Feb. 13, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., and Sunday, Feb. 14, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Admission is free, however, donations to the food bank will be accepted.