There aren't other 'Challenge' Forums, but there are lots of other forums...some are software specific, or type specific (I belong to the Fractal forum and the Bryce forum). Many of those forums issue monthly challenges to their members. This is the only one I know that is open to any and all, including writers! My suspicion on my render is that it is taking forever because I can only render sporadically, and I am on Bryce with the DOF option! Tres

Fractals will always amaze me!