It was an alternate 'User Activity' measuring system that was around before February 2011. It ranked you as a user based off 'Awesome Points (nobody could see them.)' which were based off an algorithm. The algorithm took into account pretty much everything on the badges right now. However, the general focus was on one field of it which could be maximised by heavily focusing on one area. This field was 'Level of Awesomeness.' Hull probably realised that everyone is more active if they try to be very active in all sections than just one section. I think this works better than the Awesomeness System.
If you are going by Hull's blog, then it's not this.
Hinting on how his blog describes his project, it seems to be that there will be the ability to paint 3D images on the 3DS. In that case there will be also a 3D Painting gallery.
Don't argue with idiots because they will drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience.
What I liked about the Awesome system was it showed the stats, badges do not. Although I certainly love the badges system, I hope it shows the count of whatever that badge is.
Example: Regular Artist [Badge]
(number of paintings)
My vote goes for badges with a hopeful change like my example.
4/5 People suffer from diarrhea. Does that mean the other enjoys it?