The GitGud Painting Podcast

In this episode, we explore the complex relationship between hobby and mental health, sharing insights from community responses on how painting and modelling serve as both coping mechanisms and sources of stress. We discuss themes like flow states, comparison, imposter syndrome, and the impact of competition, offering practical strategies and honest reflections.  If you need help: https://findahel...

What does it take to build a painting competition from the ground up? In this episode Phoenix joins Magnus and Bruce to talk through the Crimson Chalice, the community-driven contest heading to Essen. They get into the graft of organising it all, how judging and categories actually work, and why inclusivity and variation matter if you want an event that welcomes hobbyists at every level.

How does color make or break a paint job, and how do you actually get it working for you? In this episode Dave, Magnus and Bruce dig into the world of color in miniature painting, from the emotional pull of a palette to the theory underneath it, and the practical tricks for landing harmony, contrast and impact.

It's a French takeover as we're joined by Thibaut Rahm, one of the new wave of miniature artists creating amazing work and storming the competition scene.

What makes a model ripe for competition and what are the pitfalls you can fall into? In this episode Dave, Magnus and Bruce dive into the GW library to examine a whole host of models and work out what makes them amazing for competition... or not.

Goodness me, it's Slayer Sword winner Borjammer in the studio! Get ready for a great chat as we navigate how he puts together his monster projects, tackles obstacles and makes beautiful art.

Golden Demon has concluded and the largest ever Demon in North America has brought with it a whole host of incredible miniatures for us to take a look at. Settle down with Magnus, Bruce and Dave as we discuss everything that took a trophy at the frankly epic show. 

Well well well, if it isn't Alexi Karahaliou, a man who's emerged in two years to go from entering competitions to taking Best of Show accolades. After such a meteoric rise, what's next? And critically, what lessons has Alexi learned along the way that we can all learn from?

Goodness me, it's only one of the UK's rising stars, Lucas Williams! Settle down as we discuss the outcome of 31 days of busts, what it takes to make intentional brushstrokes, and the power of music in miniature painting. It's a good one people.

The premiere Australian painting competition has taken place and Dave, Bruce and Magnus sit-down to discuss the event and the incredible minis from the show. Liam on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/liampaintsstuff/ More about Crimson Brush: https://crimsonbrush.com.au/ Crimson Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@bigdenopaints/videos

Get comfortable as we sit down with a true renaissance man of the hobby, Maxime Penaud, a classically trained fine artist who has brought the Beaux-Arts de Paris into the world of miniatures. From sculpting his own competition entries to claiming multiple Slayer Swords, Maxime's rare appearances on the competition circuit have always caused a sensation and it's time to find out what makes him tick...

Roman Lappat is in the virtual studio! Settle down as we talk with a titan of the hobby who has been pushing the art forward for the last 20 years. From competition vs joy and judging golden demon to forging a career in miniatures, we touch on everything that has made Roman the man he is today.

2025 is done and what a year for miniatures it's been! Settle in for this one as we talk about the five pieces that we think are the stand outs in the hobby this year.  05:47 - Albert Moreto Font - The Magister of Hammerhal 52:06 - Maxime Penaud - Marduk, the Mercenary Ogre 01:20:16 - Raphael Boyon - Sorcerer on Lammassu 01:39:29 - Kirill Kanaev - Teutonic Knight with Crossbow 01:59:45 - Erkka Mar...

This week we sit down with Lukas, part of the team at Squidmar Miniatures and a painting demon in his own right. From pushing yourself when painting is your job to rediscovering the basics, we cover a great deal! Sit down, relax, and crack into some köttbullar as we enjoy another ep.

It's December and it's time for a new podcast in a new format! This week, Bruce, Magnus and Dave talk about the close of Monte and the opening of MPO and the Squidmar Open. We then get into the big discussion - starting projects and everything basing. Settle in, this is a long one. 

This week we’re joined by John Margiotta for a wide-ranging chat on what it takes to build a body of work you’re proud of. We get into the realities of competition painting, including Golden Demon highs and hard lessons, and how choosing the right project can matter as much as execution. John breaks down how he thinks about developing a recognisable style, pushing texture and atmosphere, and makin...

This week we sit down with Erkka, fresh from his recent Demon win! We explore Erkka's journey as a painter, his recent exhibition, and the importance of community in artistic growth! Settle in, this is a good 'un.  00:00 Introduction 01:56 Exhibition Insights and Public Reception 05:48 Mindset and Approach to Competition 11:50 Artistic Intent and Perfection Myths 18:05 Evolution of Artistic Style...

Essen is over! The best in the world descended on Germany bringing their very best and now it's time to talk about the glorious winners. Oh and Dave's here! And also he might be here for a while! 🔥

This week we sit down with the incredibly talented David Colwell to dive deep into the craft of miniature painting. From the infinite skill ceiling of the hobby to the mental health benefits that draw so many of us to the brush, we explore what it really means to grow as an artist. Dave shares his philosophy on continuous learning, the importance of feedback, and why sometimes the best thing you c...

Three weeks to go folks. The hype is building and Brucey and Magnussy are preparing to see some minis, enjoy community and have a good ole time.   Access the wonderful PDF of GD History here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TrF-rgsYX2O3FOEdhVsefYbhJ_i5yNSY/view?usp=sharing

We are so back baby! After a summer break we sit down with the inimitable Marc Masclans about all things miniatures. From his experiences at Golden Demon to the philosophy of why we do what we do, no stone is left unturned. Settle in, this is a good one.  00:06 Introduction to Marc and His Work 05:57 The Golden Demon Journey 11:56 Artistic Growth and Learning 17:50 Creative Process and Methodology...

The summer heat is on and with Golden Demon looming, Bruce and Magnus talk painting pressure, community spirit, and the buzz of what’s to come.   00:06 Introduction and Warm-Up 01:33 World Model Expo Insights 04:38 The Art of Competition Painting 07:31 The Niche of Warhammer Painting 10:38 Upcoming Competitions and Events 13:33 Expectations for Golden Demon 20:02 The Importance of Personal Brandin...

This week Bruce and Magnus are joined by Gabi Tysarzik, multi-award-winning miniature artist, colour enthusiast, and organiser of the global One Epic Army project. We explore everything from the highs and lows of competition painting, imposter syndrome, and the search for validation, to the pure joy of creating, experimenting, and connecting with the community. It’s an honest and inspiring convers...

This week Bruce and Magnus are joined by Martin Collier, prolific painter and one of the founders of the Fen Model Show. We get into it, talking through everything from painting styles to the realities of building a model show and fostering a community.  01:15 Martin's Journey in Miniature Painting 05:31 Transitioning Styles and Techniques 08:34 Bridging Historical and Fantasy Painting 11:11 The I...

This week Bruce and Magnus here are thrilled to sit down with the incredibly talented Arnau Lázaro Azcarate. Arnau, born in Barcelona and now based in Richmond Upon Thames, has rapidly become one of the leading voices in miniature figure painting. Known for his stunning commissions and box art for top brands, Arnau’s journey from Warhammer enthusiast to professional artist is both inspiring and in...