I agree on "representative" reputation ranking having a problem at this point (relative to veteran 3D artist). Probably receiving rep points for posting a forum treat should be disabled (for some users). There's no problem being enthusiastic and post frequently but it can get a strategy for ranking up at this point. I like enthusiasm and want to promote it as much as possible, but I doubt it would do any good at this point.
Sales and positive votes should ultimately prevail in establishing rank in a professional marketplace. There's people with many jeers of devotion spend on getting as good as they are. Seeing them get outranked (systematically wise) bay beginners work is indeed questionable. For sake of good marketing the best artists should be in front and be representative for the community. (this would also be beneficial for all community members)
Ps. I discovered a bug, if you enter on the homepage and click the CG models button and then click on categories in hoping to get an overview of everything posted, then al of a sudden de menu changes to the 3D print menu. (CG models button remains active regardless 3D print menu being active)
I like this place very much but I hope to see CG models be better represented. Keep repeating myself with saying this site should divide in two marketplaces and share a 50/50 front page space. I don't say the backend functionality should divide also (which is the case right now). It is perfectly possible to ad a category function sow uploaders can select to witch marketplace they want to add a given item. You can add a file selector system sow one can select curtain files already uploaded but add different images, decryptions and price for 3d print. so use one upload page and provide the publishing functions to the designers themselves. (just my suggestion)