Path of the Worthy – Dallas Kemp Spotlight

The Path of the Worthy painting competition has become a highlight of AdeptiCon, drawing hobbyists and artists from around the world to showcase their incredible skills. As we approach the Third Annual Path of the Worthy, we sat down with Dallas Kemp, Creative Director at Atomic Mass Games, to discuss the evolution of the competition, what makes it unique, and how it continues to inspire the community.

As we approach the Third Annual Path of the Worthy competition, what excites you most about this year’s entries?

I think the exciting thing going into this year is the chatter about the Worthy and the excitement in the community for this coming year. There seems to be more painters gearing up to take their first steps on the path this year.

Looking back on the first two years, what moments or entries stand out as particularly memorable or inspiring?

There were some amazing entries in the first 2 years. The bar was set pretty high from the start with Jonathan Ho just knocking it out of the park with his Spider-Man vs Doc Ock. Kelsey Hattam had a fantastic M.O.D.O.K. Sam Lenz had a fantastic Rhino. Rico Chia had a great composition with his Guardians of the Galaxy…aaahhhhh….to many to mention!

The competition has showcased some breathtaking work. How have these entries influenced or inspired your own journey as an artist?

Great question! Seeing entries that have pushed the notion of the “360ness” of the miniature hobby I think is what is really inspiring me right now. I love when the painters embrace the idea that a miniature is a solid object able to be viewed from all sides and that has been incorporated into my Gallery piece I am working on for this year as well.

What do you think makes Path of the Worthy unique compared to other miniature painting competitions?

The unique part of the Worthy is the way we judge the entries. We use an open judging format, which means if you earn a bronze…you get a bronze. Same with silvers and gold. There is no first, second, or third for the medals. You are competing against your own skill and previous placement. Then at the gold level, that is when we pick 1 of those per category. We want to emphasize growth and progress over anything else in your journey in miniature art.

Feedback is a core part of this event. How does the feedback process here differ, and why is it so valuable for participants?

Feedback is the back bone of the Worthy. It provides the community to get that essential extra set of eyes on the piece. We want to help painters focus on what their needs are and not just an arbitrary “you did good/you did bad.” The idea is to allow people to grow and get what they need to grow on their Path.

For first-time entrants, what advice or tips would you offer to help them prepare and make the most of the experience? 

I would say for first timers, come in with an open heart and a desire to grow. There are so many painters at Adepticon willing to share techniques and ideas that a new player can get an unprecedented amount of information in such a short time. Paint to your best and make sure you have a goal in mind. Which may be “I want to be a good table top painter”, which the judges will give you feedback on how to achieve.

But most importantly, have fun 😀

Thanks, Dallas! Whether you’re a seasoned painter or taking your first steps on your painting path, AdeptiCon 2025 promises to be another unforgettable chapter in this journey. We can’t wait to see the artistry and creativity on display this year. Good luck to all participants!

Until next time, Atomic Mass Games, signing off!