Anrego
How long have you been into this art form?
I've loved art literally forever, but I've gotten more serious about it these last 2 years.
What got you into it?
It happened naturally for me I guess. Drawing was just something I always did.
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
Art getting stolen, clients that backed out after the work was done , and people who took off with work without paying.
What inspires you to keep going?
At this point just to improve my skills. I just want to get better and show the world what I can do.
I've loved art literally forever, but I've gotten more serious about it these last 2 years.
What got you into it?
It happened naturally for me I guess. Drawing was just something I always did.
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
Art getting stolen, clients that backed out after the work was done , and people who took off with work without paying.
What inspires you to keep going?
At this point just to improve my skills. I just want to get better and show the world what I can do.
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
Practice! Even if it's a doodle here and there every day.
Any closing comments?
It's never too early or too late to get into animation or design. There are a lot of free resources online to help you get started. Also if you do want to go to school for it THOROUGHLY research the institution. There are a lot of shady for profit schools out there! No sense in going in debt for something you can learn online for free or a community college for way less!
Practice! Even if it's a doodle here and there every day.
Any closing comments?
It's never too early or too late to get into animation or design. There are a lot of free resources online to help you get started. Also if you do want to go to school for it THOROUGHLY research the institution. There are a lot of shady for profit schools out there! No sense in going in debt for something you can learn online for free or a community college for way less!
The Fluffy Prince
How long have you been into this art form?
I've been cosplaying for 7 years.
What got you into it?
I used to watch cosplay skits and blogs on YouTube, primarily Malindachan and Fighting Dreamers Production. I thought that it was cool that these people, who were all older than me, were able to show their love for the characters and series they supported. After I went to my first convention with my best friend who cosplayed, it really solidified my feelings to start cosplaying.
I've been cosplaying for 7 years.
What got you into it?
I used to watch cosplay skits and blogs on YouTube, primarily Malindachan and Fighting Dreamers Production. I thought that it was cool that these people, who were all older than me, were able to show their love for the characters and series they supported. After I went to my first convention with my best friend who cosplayed, it really solidified my feelings to start cosplaying.
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
A lot of the obstacles I faced were mental. Since I didn't really see a lot of black cosplayers in the community who were constantly in the spotlight, it really made me feel as though it wasn't okay to cosplay someone who's skin color didn't match mine. And even when I did cosplay characters who's skin tone didn't match mine, I still felt horrible. I felt as though I wasnt as good as other cosplayers. It took me actually seeking out other black cosplayers and Fighting my own self-esteem issues to realize that just because I'm black, it doesn't mean that I'm any less of a cosplayer than someone else.
What inspires you to keep going?
My love for crafting and the inspiration of seeing myself as the characters that I grew up admiring. It's an amazing feeling to make something (or even buy a cosplay), put it on, and then be able to walk around among other people who share your passion. And that feeling is multiplied whenever I do photoshoot for myself. Seeing myself in cosplay is almost like looking at another person and I almost can't believe that it's actually me that I'm looking at.
A lot of the obstacles I faced were mental. Since I didn't really see a lot of black cosplayers in the community who were constantly in the spotlight, it really made me feel as though it wasn't okay to cosplay someone who's skin color didn't match mine. And even when I did cosplay characters who's skin tone didn't match mine, I still felt horrible. I felt as though I wasnt as good as other cosplayers. It took me actually seeking out other black cosplayers and Fighting my own self-esteem issues to realize that just because I'm black, it doesn't mean that I'm any less of a cosplayer than someone else.
What inspires you to keep going?
My love for crafting and the inspiration of seeing myself as the characters that I grew up admiring. It's an amazing feeling to make something (or even buy a cosplay), put it on, and then be able to walk around among other people who share your passion. And that feeling is multiplied whenever I do photoshoot for myself. Seeing myself in cosplay is almost like looking at another person and I almost can't believe that it's actually me that I'm looking at.
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
Believe in yourself. Cosplay for yourself. Surround yourself with people who won't tear you down and make you feel beneath them. There will always be someone trying to tell you that you can't do something. It's easy to say ignore the haters and keep moving, but that's honestly what you have to do. Whether it's a slow process or a quick one, stick with what will make you happy and what you believe in.
Believe in yourself. Cosplay for yourself. Surround yourself with people who won't tear you down and make you feel beneath them. There will always be someone trying to tell you that you can't do something. It's easy to say ignore the haters and keep moving, but that's honestly what you have to do. Whether it's a slow process or a quick one, stick with what will make you happy and what you believe in.
Photo credits: DSC3668 and DSC3683: Houkakyou on FB IMG_6233: bittersweetphoto on IG 20170812: freegebias on IG 30251843562: sumiko.foto photography on FB
Protocosplayer
How long have you been into this art form?
Since summer of 2015
What got you into it?
Love of cosplay
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
Acceptance from others, acceptance of myself(learning to just have fun with it) and also trying to keep body positive.
What inspires you to keep going?
Making friends, memories, having fun at conventions and overall establishing my place in where I belong.
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
Cosplay is for everyone...cosplay is love and support. -in the words of my sensei Cruor
Any closing comments?
You can cosplay anything you set your mind to....
Silver Wing Art Cosplay
How long have you been into this art form?
Over 7 years! I did have a gap of 5 years because of my braids, but I have done a bit of steampunk in the meantime~
What got you into it?
My former friends who have already been into it and actively went to cons. What they did just looked so cool, but I was mostly watching from the sidelines. Let me tell you, it's so great to finally be able to do it yourself!
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
First off, I had long braids which, naturally, didn't allow me to wear wigs. I was also very afraid to cosplay out of race- which didn't leave me with a lot of options, especially when I wanted to cosplay with my friends or from a specific series. My former friends and I were really into Hetalia Axis Powers at the time, so the only character I could cosplay 'safely' was Egypt, especially since I could use his headscarf to hide my braids. I guess I could cosplay Cuba too, but I was and still am rather skinny. Since I was a beginner, I had no idea how to cosplay him properly and respectfully, plus he didn't appear enough in the series or manga for me to really care about him, unfortunately. As years went by, I got a more convenient hairstyle and I gradually got over the fear, but at the same time I fell more and more in love with characters of color, whether they were main characters or not. Plus, even though the fear isn't completely gone, since I still see so many awesome cosplayers of color dealing with bullsh*t when they cosplay white or Asian characters, I really try not to let that stop me. I'm getting there~ The strength of those cosplayers helps me too, since they aren't afraid to call the haters out and never succumbed to their hatred.
What inspires you to keep going?
My friends. Over the years I have met and befriended so many amazing cosplayers. Their passion and positivity keep my love for this hobby alive. Cosplaying is also my way of showing love for a series, it's a way of saying "thank you" to the creators and voice actors. Most of the characters I cosplay have meant so much to me. I remember costesting Allura for the first time and tagging her voice actress in my tweet, and she not only liked it, but also retweeted it, saying I looked regal! It's one of the best cosplay-related memories I have ever had ♡
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
Don't let anyone tell you you can't cosplay your favorite character, but always stay respectful. You have what it takes, believe in yourself.
Any closing comments?
I hope to keep doing this for a long time, since it's an amazing creative outlet. I also pray for the day that people wouldn't have to be afraid to cosplay the characters they love.
Over 7 years! I did have a gap of 5 years because of my braids, but I have done a bit of steampunk in the meantime~
What got you into it?
My former friends who have already been into it and actively went to cons. What they did just looked so cool, but I was mostly watching from the sidelines. Let me tell you, it's so great to finally be able to do it yourself!
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
First off, I had long braids which, naturally, didn't allow me to wear wigs. I was also very afraid to cosplay out of race- which didn't leave me with a lot of options, especially when I wanted to cosplay with my friends or from a specific series. My former friends and I were really into Hetalia Axis Powers at the time, so the only character I could cosplay 'safely' was Egypt, especially since I could use his headscarf to hide my braids. I guess I could cosplay Cuba too, but I was and still am rather skinny. Since I was a beginner, I had no idea how to cosplay him properly and respectfully, plus he didn't appear enough in the series or manga for me to really care about him, unfortunately. As years went by, I got a more convenient hairstyle and I gradually got over the fear, but at the same time I fell more and more in love with characters of color, whether they were main characters or not. Plus, even though the fear isn't completely gone, since I still see so many awesome cosplayers of color dealing with bullsh*t when they cosplay white or Asian characters, I really try not to let that stop me. I'm getting there~ The strength of those cosplayers helps me too, since they aren't afraid to call the haters out and never succumbed to their hatred.
What inspires you to keep going?
My friends. Over the years I have met and befriended so many amazing cosplayers. Their passion and positivity keep my love for this hobby alive. Cosplaying is also my way of showing love for a series, it's a way of saying "thank you" to the creators and voice actors. Most of the characters I cosplay have meant so much to me. I remember costesting Allura for the first time and tagging her voice actress in my tweet, and she not only liked it, but also retweeted it, saying I looked regal! It's one of the best cosplay-related memories I have ever had ♡
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
Don't let anyone tell you you can't cosplay your favorite character, but always stay respectful. You have what it takes, believe in yourself.
Any closing comments?
I hope to keep doing this for a long time, since it's an amazing creative outlet. I also pray for the day that people wouldn't have to be afraid to cosplay the characters they love.
Pic credits: Hermione: Ma Jader fotografie Allura: @mr_clrkknt on instagram (can I pb his FB page later?) Korra (waterbending): Dazzle photography Art Korra (firebending): @foxtailswing on instagram ---
Gora Dirga
How long have you been into this art form?
1 year
What got you into it?
My Friends, experiences, and the happiness it brings me.
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
Yes, like money, I can't make a costume by myself, I don't know a maker in my area, I don't know any events, and some friends laugh at me for cosplaying.
What inspires you to keep going?
My self
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
No matter what people say, keep going and fighting. Prove that you can do it.
1 year
What got you into it?
My Friends, experiences, and the happiness it brings me.
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
Yes, like money, I can't make a costume by myself, I don't know a maker in my area, I don't know any events, and some friends laugh at me for cosplaying.
What inspires you to keep going?
My self
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
No matter what people say, keep going and fighting. Prove that you can do it.
Caffeinated Villain
How long have you been into this art form?
Four, going on five years!
What got you into it?
My school had a spirit week, and one of the days was ‘Character day’ so I came in a really terrible closet cosplay. It was my first cosplay ever, and I really would love to redo that cosplay and give the character justice.
Four, going on five years!
What got you into it?
My school had a spirit week, and one of the days was ‘Character day’ so I came in a really terrible closet cosplay. It was my first cosplay ever, and I really would love to redo that cosplay and give the character justice.
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
Every cosplay gives me some type of obstacle, whether it’s sewing, or something is stupidly expensive, etc. But I think my biggest challenge has to be makeup. I originally didn’t wear makeup for cosplay (and you don’t have to!) but I wanted to get into wearing makeup for it since my face would get drowned out by my wigs. So through trial and error, I eventually got to where I like my makeup! I looked like a train wreck for a while but I figured it out.
What inspires you to keep going?
Seeing other people cosplay keeps me motivated, whether it’s seeing them craft things on their Instagram stories, or posting photos, etc. it just keeps me motivated and inspired to keep cosplaying!
Every cosplay gives me some type of obstacle, whether it’s sewing, or something is stupidly expensive, etc. But I think my biggest challenge has to be makeup. I originally didn’t wear makeup for cosplay (and you don’t have to!) but I wanted to get into wearing makeup for it since my face would get drowned out by my wigs. So through trial and error, I eventually got to where I like my makeup! I looked like a train wreck for a while but I figured it out.
What inspires you to keep going?
Seeing other people cosplay keeps me motivated, whether it’s seeing them craft things on their Instagram stories, or posting photos, etc. it just keeps me motivated and inspired to keep cosplaying!
Do you have any helpful advice to others who would like to be apart of this art form?
Don’t give up and have fun! It’s a hard art form, but if you don’t give up, you’ll succeed! There’s a lot of learning experiences, but what matters is if you’re having fun! It doesn’t matter if you bought your costume or made it, as long as you’re having fun portraying one of your favorite characters that’s all that matters!
Don’t give up and have fun! It’s a hard art form, but if you don’t give up, you’ll succeed! There’s a lot of learning experiences, but what matters is if you’re having fun! It doesn’t matter if you bought your costume or made it, as long as you’re having fun portraying one of your favorite characters that’s all that matters!
Photo credits:Starlord: Garrett Ard
Beauty and the Beast: John Nettles/ City Light Studios
Crowley: @Funscuttle
Beauty and the Beast: John Nettles/ City Light Studios
Crowley: @Funscuttle
Jynx tsilevion
How long have you been into this art form?
I've been cosplaying officially since 2009, making my own costumes since 2016. I've been dressing up and loving costumes since I was a kid though (some of the dresses my mom used to make me were definitely Lolita-esque).
What got you into it?
Other people, really. Seeing other cosplayers was the start, but my best friends were the ones who really got me started. They wanted to do Umi, Hikaru, and Fuu from Magic Knight Rayearth. We still haven't done those cosplays, but it's inspired all of us to learn to sew so we can do it together one day.
I've been cosplaying officially since 2009, making my own costumes since 2016. I've been dressing up and loving costumes since I was a kid though (some of the dresses my mom used to make me were definitely Lolita-esque).
What got you into it?
Other people, really. Seeing other cosplayers was the start, but my best friends were the ones who really got me started. They wanted to do Umi, Hikaru, and Fuu from Magic Knight Rayearth. We still haven't done those cosplays, but it's inspired all of us to learn to sew so we can do it together one day.
Have you faced any obstacles along the way? Such as....
Many. Not knowing how to sew has made it really hard, because I want to compete and get better, but still I am learning so much. I used to rely on my mother's skills, but I didn't learn from her at the time. My friends taught me basic skills, but I have a lot more to learn. I'm a novice at the best! And, it's weird being a transgender-nonbinary cosplayer (especially because I pass so well as female). I'm not super comfortable in dresses anymore, but so many of the characters I associate with are magical girls. I also want to represent the few nonbinary characters out there, but fear that I lack the skill to portray them. I also lack a lot of self confidence and hate getting my picture taken. I'm trying to use cosplay to love myself and not hate everything I do, but I struggle dysphoria. So it'll keep being an uphill battle.
Many. Not knowing how to sew has made it really hard, because I want to compete and get better, but still I am learning so much. I used to rely on my mother's skills, but I didn't learn from her at the time. My friends taught me basic skills, but I have a lot more to learn. I'm a novice at the best! And, it's weird being a transgender-nonbinary cosplayer (especially because I pass so well as female). I'm not super comfortable in dresses anymore, but so many of the characters I associate with are magical girls. I also want to represent the few nonbinary characters out there, but fear that I lack the skill to portray them. I also lack a lot of self confidence and hate getting my picture taken. I'm trying to use cosplay to love myself and not hate everything I do, but I struggle dysphoria. So it'll keep being an uphill battle.
What inspires you to keep going?
My friends. They're amazing and incredibly supportive. Some have been cosplaying for a long time and some are just starting, but it's so wonderful to see what they've done. My partner as well. He's getting into cosplay slowly with me, and has been nothing but amazing the entire time. We're learning together. And knowing that, if I make myself visible, I might be able to inspire others and give them hope that things will get better.
Do you have any helpful advice to others who
would like to be apart of this art form?
Don't give up! It's not easy all the time, but you can do it. Cosplay is for fun, and for everyone. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise, and don't be afraid to cosplay a character despite looking differently than them. Don't feel lesser if you have to buy your costume or it didn't turn out perfectly. It's for you. Do what makes you happy. That said, be cognizant of other cultures and be respectful. Don't do raceface, or inappropriate costumes. Don't be offensive. Do your research. And when you don't know, ask.
My friends. They're amazing and incredibly supportive. Some have been cosplaying for a long time and some are just starting, but it's so wonderful to see what they've done. My partner as well. He's getting into cosplay slowly with me, and has been nothing but amazing the entire time. We're learning together. And knowing that, if I make myself visible, I might be able to inspire others and give them hope that things will get better.
Do you have any helpful advice to others who
would like to be apart of this art form?
Don't give up! It's not easy all the time, but you can do it. Cosplay is for fun, and for everyone. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise, and don't be afraid to cosplay a character despite looking differently than them. Don't feel lesser if you have to buy your costume or it didn't turn out perfectly. It's for you. Do what makes you happy. That said, be cognizant of other cultures and be respectful. Don't do raceface, or inappropriate costumes. Don't be offensive. Do your research. And when you don't know, ask.
Social media:
https://www.facebook.com/pg/JynxTsi
Jynx Tsilevon on Vero
https://www.facebook.com/pg/JynxTsi
Jynx Tsilevon on Vero
Photography Credits:
Card Captor Sakura: Photographer: Drake Meed (https://www.facebook.com/Project-Coalesce-139488426688434/)
Sakura- Blue Jester: Kagaku Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/KagakuCosplay/)
Syaoran Li – Ragdoll Prince Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/ragdollprince/)
Elfe Dragoon (Before Crisis FFVII)
Photographer: PoisonedReality Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/RenaRealityCosplay/)
Madoka Photographer: PoisonedReality Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/RenaRealityCosplay/)
Card Captor Sakura: Photographer: Drake Meed (https://www.facebook.com/Project-Coalesce-139488426688434/)
Sakura- Blue Jester: Kagaku Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/KagakuCosplay/)
Syaoran Li – Ragdoll Prince Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/ragdollprince/)
Elfe Dragoon (Before Crisis FFVII)
Photographer: PoisonedReality Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/RenaRealityCosplay/)
Madoka Photographer: PoisonedReality Cosplay (https://www.facebook.com/RenaRealityCosplay/)