Rika: twirls in costume Sooo, what do you think? Is it lit or nah?
Rika, you look absolutely fire in that yukata. Can I ask why you're cosplaying?
HAIYAH!! I just love pushing boundaries and expressing myself through different characters. Plus, it's a great way to showcase my cosplay skills and connect with other fans!
That's really cool! Have you always been into anime?
Oh, you bet your ass I have! Anime has been a huge part of my life since I was a kid.
What kind of anime do you like?
Oh, I'm all about that action-packed shonen anime, ya know? Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, One Piece - those are some of my faves! But I also appreciate a good psychological thriller, like Death Note or Monster.
Great choices! Any particular reason why you chose this specific character to cosplay?
Well, for this anime convention, I decided to cosplay as Bulma from Dragon Ball Z because she's strong, determined, and super cool! Plus, her hair is just so iconic - it's the perfect canvas for all my creative styling ideas!
Awesome choice! How did you get into cosplay? Is it something you've been doing for a while now?
Haha, well, I've actually been cosplaying since I was a teenager!
Wow, that's impressive! Do you make your own costumes, or do you buy them pre-made?
Omg, I'm a total craft geek! I love making my own costumes, it's so much fun and super rewarding.
No way, you sew all that?! That's incredible! Do you sell any of your costumes afterwards, or do you just wear them once?
Haha, I usually wear 'em just once, but I sometimes make exceptions for special occasions or if people commission me to cosplay a certain character.
Cool! Is there another character you're really interested in cosplaying as?
At the anime convention, Rika meets a fellow cosplayer who invites her to join their cosplay group.
Hey, that's awesome! Is there anything you'd like to share about yourself? Like any hobbies or talents?
Oh, you know it! I'm a bit of a nerd at heart, so I love playing video games, reading manga, and listening to J-pop.
Nice! What about working in the arts? Is that something you'd like to pursue as a career?
Oh, absolutely! I'm currently working on building my portfolio and gaining more experience in the field. It's tough, but I'm super passionate about it and willing to put in the hard work to make it happen.
Hey, I saw your sketchbook! Your drawings are amazing - have you thought about selling them online or at local shops?
Omg, thank you so much! Yeah, I've thought about that.
That's great! You should totally take advantage of that talent. Is there a particular style of art that you enjoy making the most?
Haha, I love experimenting with different styles, but I have a soft spot for anime-inspired art. There's something about the mix of bold lines, vibrant colors, and dynamic compositions that really speaks to me.
So, what's next for you? Any upcoming projects or events you're excited about?
OMG, you know what's next? I'm actually planning to enter a prestigious comic contest happening in Japan this summer! It's super exciting and a bit nerve-wracking, but I'm ready to give it my best shot.
That sounds awesome! I wish you the best of luck with that. How can I help out?
Aww, thanks! Well, if you have any advice on how to improve my artwork or cosplay skills, I'm all ears! And maybe you could help me brainstorm some new cosplay ideas too?
I'd be happy to help with whatever you need. By the way, do you have a social media account where I can see your other cosplays?
Oh, you know it! You can find me on Instagram at @rika.chan. I post all my latest cosplay adventures and behind-the-scenes peeks there.
Cool! I'll definitely check that out. Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself or your passion for cosplay?
Umm, one thing that might surprise you is that I actually started cosplaying as a way to boost my confidence. It sounds weird, but embodying different characters helps me feel more comfortable in my own skin and express myself in new ways.
That's understandable. Cosplaying can be a lot of fun and a great way to challenge yourself. Have you ever had any negative experiences at an anime convention?
Haha, I've definitely had my fair share of weird encounters at conventions, but nothing too scary!
Is there a particular cosplay event or contest that you're interested in participating in?
Actually, there's this amazing cosplay contest at Anime Expo that I've been eyeing. It's a chance to showcase my skills and connect with other cosplayers and industry professionals. Would you be cool with helping me practice my poses and expressions for the contest?
Of course! I'd be happy to help out in any way I can. Is there anything specific you're looking for help with?
Haha, thank you so much! I could use some tips on how to perfect my poses and expressions. Maybe we could practice together after the convention?
That sounds perfect. Looking forward to it! Do you have any other plans for the rest of the day?
Aww, you know it! After the convention, I'm gonna dive headfirst into sketching some new character designs. I'm really excited to explore some new styles and incorporate some of the techniques I learned from the workshops. How about you, any plans?
Just relaxing at home after the con. But I'm curious - what kind of sketches are you planning to work on later?
Haha, I'm thinking of creating some original characters for a comic project.