Word of the Nerd is pleased to present to you one of our most popular features, Cosplayer Spotlight. We feature new and talented cosplayers from the cosplay community. Be sure to check back every Tuesday and Thursday to catch some up and coming new cosplay talent or get a look at some well established and famous members of the cosplay universe.
About Cospl’Utopia
I’m Cospl’Utopia, I’m from France so my English is very bad (sorry). I’m 20 years old, I’ve been cosplaying since 2015. I’m a film student, cosplay is a hobby for me, I also do a lot of drawing and self-taught contortionist.
How did you first get into cosplay?
When I came across images of a “disguised” person, I then learned that it was called cosplay and that it was much more than just costume.
Do you cosplay just for fun or do you see it as a stepping stone to a future career?
It’s just for fun
Do you prefer to make your cosplays from scratch, buy or commission them or a hybrid?
I do everything
How much time do you spend making each of your cosplays?
Time varies a lot it may take a few hours and others may take several days
What is your favorite cosplay you have done so far?
I think it’s Inosuke from Demon Slayer because it’s my first cosplay that I make entirely by hand
What has been your most memorable experience (good or bad) as a cosplayer?
The conventions, it allowed me to meet a lot of people and to have a lot of support
How do you feel about group cosplays?
They are really super! This allows during photo shoots or on stage to recreate scenes from the manga
What cosplays are you currently working on or plan to finish this year?
I’m currently working on the new League Of Legend champion, Lillia, it’s a real challenge because she has a centaur body!
What issues do you see as being the most divisive in the cosplay community and how do you feel about it?
I make sure not to listen to the drama that pollutes the community
What types of characters or genres inspire your cosplay the most?
I often cosplay female characters with a childlike appearance. I also really like those who show great flexibility!
What is your favorite part (researching, shopping for supplies, sewing, photoshoots, attending cons, etc.) of your cosplay process?
Craft and going on stage are my favorite parts!
What are your best resources for cosplay materials?
I really like working with recovery cardboard, yoga mat, paper maché … these are my basic materials
What has been the biggest obstacle you have had to overcome as a cosplayer?
Body image, not to be afraid of remarks and judgment
Have you learned any life lessons during your time as a cosplayer and what are they?
Each body is different, and it’s not because we don’t look 100% like a character that we embody it badly and there is no need to have a lot of money to cosplay, with most there is a way to do a lot!
What is your golden cosplay rule that you would share with new cosplayers?
Just have fun!
How do you feel the cosplay community has changed over time?
There are more and more young people who cosplay, and often they just put on a wig and say “cosplay”
If money and time were not a factor, what is your number one over-ambitious cosplay you want to do?
Transcended Kayle from League of Legend
Do you set a budget for each cosplay?
I try not to exceed 150 euros
What does cosplay mean to you?
Embody a character, change ideas, share a passion, create!
How do you see the cosplay community 10 years from now?
I still don’t see her as she is now
What is your favorite con to attend?
Another convention, in France
Is there another cosplayer who inspires you or is your role model?
Okoe_cosplay and Littlejem
Do you consider yourself an inspiration to other cosplayers?
I don’t think so
What advice would you give someone about meeting cosplayers and taking their pictures? How do you like to be approached?
NEVER take a photo without asking permission if not a simple “Hi, can I take a picture of you?” enough
What is one thing you wish your fans knew about you?
Maybe you know me because you’ve been following my work for a while, but that doesn’t mean that I know you, so avoid coming to talk to me as if we were friends forever it is obviously valid with all cosplayers!
Is there anything that would make you stop cosplaying?
If I run out of money
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