THE LVO
HOBBY PROGRAM
The LVO Hobby Program, presented by Verko's Vault, is the premier destination for miniature painting, modeling, and hobby education at LVO. This multi-tiered program features the world-class Verko’s Vault Masters Championship (VVMC) painting competition, the immersive and accessible Hobby Hub, and an elite lineup of Masterclasses and seminars led by top industry artists.
Whether you're a competitive painter, a hobbyist looking to grow, or someone picking up a brush for the first time, the Hobby Program offers a welcoming space to create, learn, and connect. With hands-on events, feedback sessions, live demos, and a vibrant community at its core, it’s the perfect way to dive deep into the hobby and experience painting at the highest level.
SPONSORS
THE NEW HOBBY HUB
Your Creative Space at LVO
The LVO Hobby Hub is your home for all things hobby. From painting and sculpting to assembling and repairs, there is space for you here.
Access to the Hobby Hub is included with your convention badge for the first time, making it easier than ever to jump in and be part of the experience.
What to Expect
Our Hobby Hub is supported by sponsors from across the tabletop and hobby community. They help bring the space to life with products for use, live demos, and prizes for challenges and activities throughout the weekend. And here’s the best part: Access to the LVO Hobby Hub* is now INCLUDED with your convention badge this year. No barriers, no excuses, just show up and get hobbying!
*LVO Hobby Hub access is included with con badge; hobby classes sold separately
OPEN TO ALL
Need to put the finishing touches on your contest entry? Assemble an army? Fix a broken mini? Or just fill some time between games? We have you covered.
You will be surrounded by fellow hobbyists and gamers in a welcoming, relaxed environment where you can sit down, create, and connect.
JUMP IN AND HAVE FUN
Try a paint and take session, join a speed painting challenge, or simply spend time working on your latest project. There is something here for all ages and experience levels.
PLAN AHEAD
We have a full schedule packed with activities, demos, and events throughout the weekend. Join in, or just hang out and hobby at your own pace. Either way, you are always welcome.
MASTERCLASSES
LVO Masterclasses are premium, all inclusive experiences designed for hobbyists who want to take their skills to the highest level. Led by world renowned, award winning artists, these small group sessions offer focused, hands on instruction in an immersive setting where you can refine advanced techniques, receive personalized feedback, and elevate your craft. Your ticket also includes daily meals, allowing you to stay fully engaged and focused throughout the experience. With extremely limited seating and high demand each year, these classes fill quickly and offer a rare opportunity to learn directly from some of the best painters in the world while being fully immersed in the art of the hobby.
-
Francesco Farabi
Beyond Technique: Finding Your Voice in Miniature Painting.
-
Matt Carnivale
Painting Emotions, Stories, and Ideas.
-
Jan Soukup
Oil painting Masterclass.
-
Dan Ozborne
Robot, Knight & Vehicle Airbrush & Weathering Masterclass.
-
TBA
Masterclass details available soon.
Artist’s Profile
WORLD
RENOWNED
INSTRUCTORS
Francesco Farabi, Matt Carnivale, Jan Soukup, Dan Ozborne
Adrian Pech, Africa Mir, Alessandro Marinone, Anthony Wang, Sean "BrushForHire" McAfee, Caleb Wissenback, Jackson "Cole" Westmoreland, Dan Dugal, David Powell, Dev Sodagar, Greg Vader, Izzy Sanchez, John Adams, Josef Hanson, KAHA Katarzyna Gorska, Kris Chung, Ladislav Majer, Lyn Orzech, Markus Klamecker, Matt DiPietro, Matteo Di Diomede, Mohamed Ait-Mehdi, Myles David, Riccardo Agostini, Steve Condon, Syndjinn Scott, Tristan Won-Whitlatch, Lukas Zaba, Michael Klieman
and more being announced soon!
Hobby Program Director
The LVO Hobby Program is curated and managed by Charity Edwards, who serves as Hobby Program Director. She works closely with instructors and the Frontline Gaming events team to recruit talented artists, curate a diverse class schedule, coordinate instructor logistics, and oversee the hobby showcase and overall programming each year. Her focus is on creating a seamless and rewarding experience for both artists and attendees, and through her leadership, the program continues to grow while maintaining a welcoming, artist friendly environment.
Question about the hobby program?
Contact Charity
The VVMC Global Painting Championship
The Verko's Vault Model Contest (VVMC) returns to the Las Vegas Open as a premier miniature painting contest with a special focus on gaming miniatures, drawing artists from across the globe. Hosted by the Verko's Vault Museum of Fantasy Miniatures, the VVMC celebrates craftsmanship, creativity, and the artistry behind the hobby.
Open to painters of all levels, the competition features multiple categories and a rigorous judging process designed to highlight excellence in painting, composition, and storytelling. It's a rare opportunity to see incredible work up close and throw your own hat in the ring. Whether you are competing for top honors or simply sharing your work with the community, the VVMC offers an inspiring space to connect with fellow artists and experience some of the finest miniature painting on display.
Join us at LVO 2026 and be part of one of the hobby's most exciting celebrations of miniature art.
VVMC LVO 2026 Schedule
Entry Registration
Friday 9AM - 5PM
Saturday 9AM - 5PM
Entry Pickup
Sunday 10AM - 2PM
Judges & Instructor’s Round Table
Sunday 10AM - 2PM
VVMC Awards Ceremony
Sunday 4PM - 6PM
VVMC LVO 2026 Categories
Bust
Diorama & Storytelling
Large Figure
Small Figure
Squad
Vehicle & Ordnance
Sculpting
Special Exhibitions:
Open Competition
Display Exhibition
Youth Exhibition
Judge’s Exhibition
VVMC LVO Entry Fees
TBA
