Twisted Faces, Timeless Fun: Why Do People Compete by Pulling the Ugliest Faces Possible?

Have you ever stumbled upon a competition so bizarre it made you laugh, cringe, and question human nature all at once? Among the myriad of unusual contests worldwide, competitions where individuals contort their faces into the most grotesque, comical, or downright "ugliest" expressions hold a special, if peculiar, place. This practice, often known as "gurning," might seem like a modern-day social media challenge gone offline, but its roots run surprisingly deep. This blog post delves into the fascinating world of ugly face competitions, exploring the historical, cultural, and psychological reasons why people enthusiastically participate in the art of the awful expression. Understanding this phenomenon reveals a unique intersection of tradition, community, and the universal human need for play and recognition.

What is Gurning, Anyway?

"Gurning" is the act of pulling a distorted facial expression. A "gurn" typically involves contorting the lower jaw as far forward or to the side as possible, often accompanied by crossing the eyes and generally making the face look as unlike its usual state as conceivable. Gurning competitions are events where participants aim to produce the most outlandish and "ugliest" face, with winners often judged on the extremity and originality of their contortions. While it might sound simple, skilled gurners often demonstrate remarkable facial muscle control and endurance. These competitions are less about conventional beauty and more about embracing the absurd, celebrating uninhibited self-expression, and, most importantly, generating laughter.

A Wrinkle in Time: The Origins of Ugly Face Competitions

The most famous and enduring tradition of gurning competitions hails from England, specifically the Egremont Crab Fair in Cumbria. Established in 1267 by Royal Charter, this fair is one of the oldest in the world. The World Gurning Championships have been a highlight of the Egremont Crab Fair for centuries, with the exact origins of this specific contest being somewhat lost to time, though it's believed to have become a formal part of the fair in the 19th century.

Legend has it that the competition started as a way for locals to mimic the village idiot or to simply engage in uninhibited fun. Competitors traditionally frame their faces through a horse collar (known as "gurnin' through a braffin"), adding to the visual spectacle and the challenge. Iconic figures like Peter Jackman, a record-holding four-time world champion, became local legends, showcasing that gurning could indeed be a practiced skill requiring dedication.

More Than Just a Funny Face: The Cultural Significance

While seemingly frivolous, these competitions hold genuine cultural importance, particularly in the communities where they are a long-standing tradition.

Community, Comedy, and Celebration

Gurning contests are, at their core, a form of folk entertainment. They bring communities together, fostering a sense of shared identity and local pride.

• Shared Laughter: The primary goal is often to amuse the audience. The sheer absurdity of the faces pulled is a source of universal comedy.
• Tradition: For places like Egremont, it's a cherished tradition passed down through generations, connecting the present to a rich local history.
• Inclusivity: Unlike many competitions based on conventional skills or athleticism, gurning is accessible to almost anyone willing to let loose.

A Break from the Norm

In a society that often places a high premium on appearance and maintaining composure, gurning competitions offer a refreshing and liberating departure. They are a sanctioned space where individuals can intentionally make themselves look "ugly" or foolish without social penalty – in fact, they are celebrated for it. This temporary suspension of social norms can be incredibly freeing and enjoyable.

The Allure of the Awful: Psychological Motivations

Why would someone willingly try to look their "worst" in public? Several psychological factors contribute to the appeal:

The Joy of Play and Performance

At a fundamental level, gurning is a form of play. It allows adults to tap into a childlike silliness and creativity. There's also an element of performance; competitors are entertainers, delighting the crowd with their facial acrobatics. The positive feedback from an amused audience can be a powerful motivator.

A Unique Claim to Fame

Winning a gurning competition provides a unique, if unconventional, form of recognition. In a world saturated with talent shows, gurning offers a niche where individuals can achieve distinction and even local or, in the case of Egremont, world-champion status. It’s a chance to be the "best" at something truly out of the ordinary.

Social Bonding and Release

Participating in or watching gurning can be a cathartic experience. Laughter is a well-known stress reliever, and these events are typically filled with it. For participants, the act of contorting their face can be a physical release, a way to shed inhibitions and connect with others on a purely humorous level.

Conclusion

Competing by pulling the ugliest faces possible is far more than a fleeting trend or a moment of silliness. It's a practice rooted in history, a vibrant expression of local culture, and a testament to the human desire for play, community, and unconventional forms of achievement. From the historic Egremont Crab Fair to smaller, similar events, gurning celebrates the joy of the absurd, the liberation from social constraints, and the simple, unadulterated fun of making people laugh. These competitions remind us that sometimes, embracing the "ugly" can be a beautiful way to connect with tradition, with others, and with our own playful spirit. So, the next time you hear about a gurning contest, you'll know it's not just about twisted expressions, but about a rich tapestry of human experience.