The APS Committee on Accreditation of National Exhibitions and Judging (CANEJ) recently approved virtual stamp exhibitions standards. The judging standards pave the way for a nationally recognized competitive virtual exhibition, similar to the traditional World Series of Philately. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, no competitive WSP exhibitions have been held since March Party in March 2020, and many traditional WSP shows will be hosting virtual shows again in 2021. 

"The time has come for virtual exhibitions," said APS Executive Director Scott English, "Online exhibits reach a broader audience worldwide and offer a great chance to share knowledge and research."

Approved virtual exhibitions will be recognized on a separate track from the WSP, and Grand Award winners will not be eligible for the annual Champion of Champions. The APS has announced the Grand Championship Series for the virtual exhibitions' Grand Award winners.

To qualify, sponsoring organizations will need to have at least 100 frames of material, a jury of at least 3 APS-certified judges, and observe the 10-exhibit limit per judge. A sample prospectus  and guidelines are available for sponsors interested in hosting a virtual competitive exhibit. With these new guidelines, the APS encourages new entries into national exhibiting.

"This is a great opportunity for APS affiliates to host a virtual exhibition," added English, "Virtual exhibitions draw international participation and provide an excellent way to promote specialty societies."

APS Past President and current Director-at-Large Dr. Peter P. McCann submitted the virtual exhibit proposal. CANEJ Chairwoman Elizabeth Hisey shepherded it through the Committee. After a thoughtful discussion, CANEJ approved the guidelines and will be collecting data for future improvements.

English concluded, "Thanks to Peter, Liz, and the entire Committee for taking us into this new era. We will learn and adapt as time moves on, but this is a critical step for the future of the hobby."

Exhibiting questions should be directed to Liz Hisey