Meet Helen Pullen: figure painting fanatic

Helen’s love for modelling dates back to the 70s, when she discovered Historex models while working for a civil engineering company. Her skill and determination led to her being the star of a full colour centre spread in the April 1986 issue of Military Modelling, and she even competed in a model-making competition in Paris. Despite leaving unplaced, she was motivated to do even better in her hobby.

Then life got in the way, and for 35 years, her model workbench was left untouched. Just recently, she has rediscovered her love for model-making as a member of the IPMS Farnborough Model Club. In honour of International Women’s Day, we celebrate one of the best female modellers we know!

What inspired you to start modelling, and how did you get into the hobby?

My inspiration came from a model engineering show I attended back in the 1970’s held in London.

Whilst walking around, I saw painted models of 54mm Historex figures, and I thought I wouldn’t mind having a go at that. I had always had a flare for art and enjoyed drawing and painting especially.

What types of models do you usually build?

My preferred models are nearly always mounted historic figures and some fantasy figures by Blacksmith Miniatures.

What challenges have you faced as a modeller and how have you overcome them?

I do not feel I have ever faced any particular challenges, discrimination or comments of a negative nature just because I am female. I have let my modelling reflect me, and I have found to date that responses have nearly always been positive. But of course, there can always be the odd critic, and that spurs me on to do better next time.

Do you have a favourite model you have built, and what makes it special to you?

My favourite model I have created so far is of a Mameluke, one of Napolean’s mounted regiments. This model was a gift from my son, who is also a modeller, and it was he who persuaded and encouraged me to resume modelling after a 35-year break.

Can you share any tips or tricks you’ve learnt along the way that might help other modellers?

I would say my biggest tip to anyone male, female or child, is to join a club. Members can be of so much help. Also, nowadays, there is so much historical information online to get the colours, etc, correct, especially when modelling a historic figure.

How do you balance your time between modelling and other commitments?

It has always been difficult balancing work and hobby time, but if I can, I like to try and set aside a couple of hours every other day, and then I am happy.

Are there any particular themes or types of models that you enjoy building the most?

My preferred type of model is the Napoleonics but if I see a model at a show or in a magazine that I like, then I will buy it and have a go

Are there any particular themes or subjects that you would like to see explored more in modelling?

I appreciate that the models I prefer may not be to everyone's taste and definitely put me in the minority. However, I would like to see more articles on figures in the modelling magazines.

How do you stay motivated and inspired to keep building new models?

There are some amazing female modellers around the world who do some fantastic work. I am always learning and striving to reach their standards. This is what keeps me motivated and gives me further inspiration to strive and work towards. The aim is to make the next model better than the last!

What’s been your most rewarding build so far?

My most rewarding model has to be of The Mountain Man which was the first model I did when I came back into modelling. It was well received by fellow club members at Farnborough. I was thrilled to receive a bronze medal at Telford International Show with it.

What does modelling mean to you?

Modelling to me is my relaxation and downtime from daily chores, like my husband. I switch off, and time flies by; I become totally absorbed.

What advice would you give to other female modellers who are just starting out in their modelling journey?

My advice is to give modelling a go. Don’t get despondent when things go wrong, which they do at times. Most of all, enjoy the hobby, the friends you make and the pleasure of showing your results, win or lose.

What do you think the future holds for the modelling community, especially for female modellers?

I think the future of modelling is here to stay; we all need something to do on a cold and wet day. The modelling world has an impressive following globally, and it is open to all, including female modellers. In the modelling world, which, in my opinion, is very male-dominated, it still has a great future. In recent years, female football has attracted a great following - modelling perhaps needs to find a way to attract more female modellers.