Sir Coates Painting Masters

UK Games Expo and Duncan Rhodes Painting Academy, will be back at UKGE 2026 with the next Sir Coates Painting Masters Competition.

Where Will It Take Place?

The event will take place in Hall 1 at UK Games Expo 2026.

Who Can Enter?

The competition is open to all, from seasoned pros to first-time painters.

How Can I Enter?

Purchase UK Games Expo Entry Tickets via the ticket link at the top of the website (launching in December 2025).
Register via your UK Games Expo Account. If you don't have an account, it's easy to create one. Click register at the top of the page on our website or progressive app.
Once registered you can enter via the form below.
Check your entry in your portal via My Expo Events.
Once you have registered, you can then submit your miniature at the Sir Coates Masters event desk in Hall 1 at the UKGE 2026.

When Will The Awards Ceremony Take Place?

The prizes will be awarded on the Main Stage in hall 2 from 3pm on Sunday 31st May 2026.

Sir Coates Painting Masters FAQs

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Sir Coates Painting Masters

Why Enter Your Miniature?

Recognition: Get your work seen by a panel of expert judges and the wider gaming community.
Exciting Prizes: Compete for amazing trophies in multiple categories.
Inspiration: Connect with fellow artists, learn new techniques, and celebrate the artistry of miniature painting.

Prizes

Everyone who enters into Sir Coates Painting Masters will receive a unique pin badge.
Those entrants who make it as finalists will received a brass pin badge and certificate.
Winners will receive a trophy
Sir Coates - Best in Show - The grand prize of the competition, the Best in Show award, will be chosen from among the gold-winning entries across all categories.

What Categories Are Included?

Single Miniature: This category is for any single human-sized miniature, mounted on an appropriately sized base. This includes everything from solitary troopers to majestic, genetically enhanced commanders. This includes miniatures mounted on smaller vehicles and creatures like bikes, jet bikes, and beasts or mounts.
Squad/Unit: This category is for squads or units of three or more miniatures. The unit may be displayed on an appropriately sized base. This includes miniatures on foot and miniatures mounted on bikes, jet bikes, and beasts, provided they are organised into a unit of three or more models.
Vehicle: This category is for any single vehicle. This includes tanks, walkers, and flyers—everything from historically accurate machinery to strange and wonderful sci-fi and alien Tanks or craft. Models entered into this category that do not require a base may still be mounted on an appropriately sized base.
Monster: This category is for any single large than human sized miniature, mounted on an appropriately sized base. This is the category to really go to town with if you enjoy whimsical fantasy creatures or hulking alien monstrosities!
Squires: This category is for entrants 15 years of age and under. Any single miniature can be entered into this category from Monsters, single miniature, or vehicle.
Board Games: This exclusive category is for board game enthusiast who want to paint the miniatures that come with their board game. These entries must be from a board game defined by a small board that comes with their miniatures, which will include a grid or hex system to move you across the game. The miniatures entered must not be available to use in a wargame (Space Hulk etc..) as these miniatures would be better suited in the singles category.