Coping with the Seesaw Syndrome

George Guzzio

The Columbo Chronicle, Vol. 2, Nr. 8, February 1992

pdf - 4k

One of the problems that has cropped up every now and then in correspondence with exhibitors is the frustration and disappointment when your award fluctuates a level on occasion.

You burn the midnight oil, follow advice, make corrections, add some gems and then sink a level. Would that there were a magic formula to solve this problem. There is no stock panacea.

Except for the odd genius, most all exhibitors including the most prestigious across all philatelic disciplines, experience this phenomenon. It is part and parcel of the game of competition.

How easy it is during the heat of frustrations to direct the slings of arrows at juries. Some deserve them, some do not. At the critique and at your frames, you get advice. If it makes sense, take heed. On the other hand, if you perceive it is generalized rhetoric, take note and seek another opinion.

We in the USA have the advantage of numerous national exhibitions, more than any other nation. By the same token, you have more chances to run up against stiff competition and a specialized venue wherein you may not be quite as appreciated as in some other show. I believe there is an advantage to giving careful consideration to the choice of when and where to exhibit. To exaggerate a point, you wouldn't want to show your "History of the Third Reich" in Tel Aviv or for that matter enter "Treasures of Ancient China" in a show that is hosting the Germany Philatelic Society or is in large part devoted to Confederate States philately. Jury selection normally favors predominant material.

Keep in mind that exhibitors can also tend to sit on their laurels. In truth, no exhibit is perfect or complete. Each time out for me, I have found things to correct, add and refine. The more I read about my subject, the more detail and episodes I find to create that just awhile back were unknown to me. In retrospect, I can say that on the whole, I have been judged quite fairly.

After experiencing many overseas exhibitions, it has come to our attention, that at times exhibitors are unfortunately forgotten in the shuffle of running a show.

While much attention and consideration is given to Judges, Commissioners, visiting dignitaries and officials, the exhibitors are often left to fend for themselves.

In this regard it is hoped that the ORGANIZING COMMITTEE will take into consideration those who have traveled far from home and at considerable expense.

Philatelists are eager to communicate, share mutual experiences and socialize with their overseas counterparts. Such camaraderie is one of the benefits of our hobby. Therefore, I take the liberty of respectfully suggesting that some form of appropriate arrangements be made in the name of international cooperation.