Introduction - What is it like being a Cosplayer?

Hello, I am Mowseler, a mega nerd from Central Florida with a mild obsession with Star Wars and video games. Cosplaying is like a breath of fresh air - it allows you to unearth something within you that you might be afraid of bringing to the surface. Ever since I started cosplaying in the public eye a little over a year ago, my confidence has grown immensely, and I have been able to streamline my need to be creative into something that everyone can enjoy.

What are your next goals?

I have a TON of ideas on the backburner, but I am a very slow crafter, haha. As mentioned, I only have two costumes, and I only have one major one scheduled to be debuted for Megacon 2015, which is my Fallen Atris (KOTOR II), but I have a few Final Fantasy costumes that are partially finished, as well as a few other ideas I might work on in the in between. In my other creative pursuits, I am working hard to finish my current album (I'm slow at everything). I also plan to begin streaming again hopefully by the end of the year, if not the start of next year, as well as possibly make a few vlogs for my YouTube channel.

Cosplay Characters

My first cosplay was Atris from Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords, and recently I debuted Revan the Redeemed from Knights of the Old Republic.

What does Cosplay mean to you?

Cosplay is a way to express yourself for a lot of people, and while that is true for myself as well, I specifically cosplay to pay respect to characters I admire, or think are interesting. It gives me a lot of joy to know that I am honoring those who put a lot of hard work and effort into creating a persona in a game (or story in general). As a creative writer myself, I think there is no greater sense of accomplishment than knowing something you made is appreciated in such a larger way, so a lot of the love I put into my costumes is, in a way, a thank you to those who have made such a memorable experience for me.

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

My dad. Any creative bone in my body is derived from him and the countless hours he will spend building something from scratch. His guidance and wisdom in creation has aided me greatly.

Do you have any advice or suggestions for upcoming Cosplayers?

Cosplay has become this big thing with a ton of silent rules put in place to create a standard. However, cosplay is really just people who really love their fandom dressing up and showing off their appreciation. That said, I don't think anyone who is looking to get into cosplay should ever worry about their skin color, gender, size, or skill level. Did you buy your costume in a store? Great! Did you have it commissioned? Cool! Did you kill the animal and tan its hide and bleed all over your costume while you put it together? Perfect! It doesn't really matter how you do it, what matters is the joy you get out of it. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

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

I have been so incredibly fortunate to have had a remarkably positive experience with my time in the public eye. Granted, I'm not super "cosfamous", but the people who follow me are nothing but respectful and admirable in their own rights, and when my pictures are shared on other pages, the worst I hear is "something funny about how she holds that lightsaber" (Which has only spurred me to try and be more conscious of how I pose, so it's a learning experience!). I think it is very rare in a convention environment where someone would actually insult you to your face, but my Internet experience has been very positive (for now). I am so appreciative of everyone who supports me.

Any final remarks or shout-outs?

May The Force Be With You