Pop Culture Conventions Camaraderie, Creativity and Cosplay
Photos by Jennifer Allen
Mirror, Mirror by Jennifer Allen With the world gradually returning to some sense of “normalcy” as the months continue on, one of many fun activities I’m most looking forward to enjoying a few funfilled days at one of many annual pop culture conventions. While some conventions have chosen to go virtual again this year just in case, some others have taken a leap of faith to run as they usually would in various locations around the world. Regardless, there will be plenty of chances this year to celebrate whichever branch of pop culture you prefer. But I’m getting a bit ahead of myself. While some of you may understand what the concept of a ‘convention’ is, it’s another thing to understand how many of them work when it comes to pop culture. We should start with the clear definition of what pop culture is, I think. A term defined initially in the mid-19th century, popular culture (or “pop culture”) refers in general to a material culture of a particular society. In modern terms, pop culture refers to cultural mediums such as music, art, literature, fashion, dance, film, cyber culture, television, and radio that have mass accessibility and appeal. A pop culture convention is then an event where fans for specific mediums congregate and appreciate that fandom in the company of like-minded individuals. Often also these gatherings include opportunities to meet people who have Saathee.com
46
worked on these pop culture projects such as actors, writers, producers, designers, performers and the like who are generally designated as “Guests”. At many of these conventions you’ll be exposed to a wide variety of activities such as workshops, Guest speaker panels, premiere film or TV presentations, gaming sessions and demonstrations, and so much more. On top of that there’s also opportunities to visit a designated area with various retail and guest booths where you can buy anything from memorabilia to books to clothing. Speaking of clothing, you will no doubt also be exposed to various fans (and sometimes Guests, too) dressed up in various types of Cosplay. Some are as simple as wearing a special top or mask to celebrate their favorite genre while others go so far as to pull off elaborate costumes that had to have taken many months or even years to create. Often the best sign that you’ve found a great Cosplayer is if a ton of other fans ask to take his or her picture. It’s even more gratifying if the other fans are wanting to take pictures of your own Cosplay. As I’ve previously mentioned in another article, I’ve only personally ventured into the realm of Cosplay for a few years now, with my outfits gradually growing more detailed as time has gone by. It can be extremely fun, but also equally as exhausting to walk around in a multilayered outfit all day. If considering trying out Cosplay for an event, you’re always welcome to ask others for advice on how to manage such a hobby. continued on page 94 April 2021
