Their Excellencies, Jean-Claude and Alyna, will be selecting the next Baronial Artisan at Twelth Night. They have requested a letter from each artisan entering the championship (See their letter from the October 2007 Nod-y-Rit for details).
The competition, sponsored by the current champion, will be a modified triathlon. Each contestant must submit three items: one which is new to the contestant, one with represents an art the contestant can teach, and one item which is the contestant's choice. Documentation is required.
The new Baronial Artisan will serve for a year, until next year's Inter-Baronial Twelfth Night. During that year, the Baronial Artisan will stand with their Excellancies in court; exemplify and encourage artisans in the Barony; teach at least four classes; and sponsor the competition in a year's time for his or her successor.
Gift Basket Items: There are many calls throughout the year for items for gift baskets. This competition, sponsored by Baroness Alyna of Tir-y-Don, will showcase the artisans' generosity as well as their talent. Entries may be either period items suitable for gift baskets, or period ways to conceal modern items for gift baskets. Special consideration will be given to portability (ie - does it fit well in a regular size basket) and creativity (try for unusual items). Documentation is required. After the competition, entrants are encouraged to donate their entries to Baronial or Kingdom gift baskets. Donated entries should be labeled with the artist's full name (SCAdian and modern) and local group, as well as list of ingredients (for any edible goods).
Masks: There will be a competition for the best face mask, as the Twelfth Night celebrations will conclude with a Dance Masque in the evening. Any period mask style or form is welcome. Documentation is required.
Holly berries: In celebration of the Yule season, there will be a competition for the best piece using holly leaves, berries, or the holly plant in any form. Documentation is required.
There will be a competition for the performing arts held in the afternoon - the winner will be invited to present his or her piece during the feast. The theme of the competition is the Christmas/Yuletide holiday. All forms of performance are welcome; please have historical background prepared for your piece.
Brewing and Tasting: There will be a forum discussion and tasting on the critical appreciation of beers, meads, cordials, sekanjubins and syrups. Participants are strongly encouraged to bring a drink they have brewed or an example of their favorite commercially-sold drink to share and discuss. Discussion will be lead by Lord Michel von Schonsee.
The Darker Side of Christmas: Still in the planning stages (watch for new announcements). A class about the dark, frightening or macabre holiday traditions throughout history.
Scriptorium: The Marinus Scriptorium invites all scribes to join them at their table to work on whatever scribal project that strikes your fancy. Look for the table in the hall.
There will be a dance lesson in the afternoon, followed by a Dance Masque in the evening. Everyone is encouraged to participate - the lesson will focus on several popular dances and go through each step slowly, with explanations. The Dance Masque will have some instruction from the dance leader, but will move at a slightly quicker pace. masks are encouraged but not required, and all dancers - novice to expert - are welcome.
This page updated January 13, 2008