What is an artistic impression backscene?

An artistic impression backscene is one option for providing a suitable backdrop for a layout or diorama.

Some modellers will have a specific idea of the backdrop they require and may choose a photographic backscene. This is effectively a mosaic of individual pictures that have been cleverly blended together to provide a panoramic view, thus giving depth to a layout. Whilst this provides a very effective complement to a layout it may have to be matched very carefully to the subject matter of the layout or diorama, i.e is the backscene industrial, rural or urban in nature.

An artistic impression backscene is effectively a painting that is intended to display a panoramic view. Generally, they are created in sections that are typically around 9" high by 29" wide. They are cleverly designed in that the landscape backdrop is at a certain height in each scene allowing them to be cleverly 'daisy-chained' together. This will allow a modeller to integrate a mix of backgrounds together including village and rural scenes creating an integrated and bespoke landscape. Another significant advantage of artistic impression backscenes is that they tend to be cheaper than photographic alternatives. Additionally, as they are compact in size they are a practical backdrop option for layouts or dioramas where space is at a premium.