Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

I'm Liana, a cosplayer from Portland, Maine. I've been cosplaying since I was fourteen, and began with small anime conventions. I prefer comics and video games over anime, so I began branching out into bigger, more diverse conventions. Cosplaying is an awesome way to express your dedication to a character that you love, as well as escape the monotony of everyday life for a weekend. My favorite part of being a cosplayer is the reactions I receive from kids when I'm dressed as iconic characters. There's nothing better than being a childs hero!

What are your next goals?

I don't have any specific goals regarding cosplay. I just want to continue improving on my sewing and prop-making abilities, meet new people, and have fun :)

Cosplay Characters

I've cosplayed Poison Ivy, Harley Quinn (from the game Arkham City), Duke Nukem, Ariel (three different versions), Nightwing, Jessica Rabbit, Black Cat, Wonder Woman, Black Canary, Psylocke, and the Silk Spectre.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay, for me, is a way to be creative, share my love for all things geeky, and meet other people who are interested in the same things I am.

Who have been your biggest influences/role models/mentors?

My biggest influences in the cosplay community are probably Nicole Marie Jean, Jessica Nigri, DaFrontlineTrooper, Wylderyce Cosplay, and many others. I've learned something from every cosplayer I've met!

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Don't get caught up in 'cosplay drama'. Cosplay should be a fun, accepting, and stress-free hobby. Beyond that, just have fun and be open to testing materials you might not traditionally work with. Trial and error is the best way to learn and develop your skills

What is the most negative experience you've dealt with while cosplaying, and how did you handle it?

I prefer not to dwell on negative experiences, but the ones I have had typically have to do with inappropriate and degrading comments. I usually handle these situations by addressing it immediately and telling the person they're making me uncomfortable.