Cosplay Confessions is a series we do to spotlight and get to understand the wonderful members of our cosplay community (and beyond!). This time we have Lohanne Cook!

HOW DID YOU GET INTO COSPLAY?

I really like dressing up for Halloween and one year it was a decision from I really like this character, how she is written, and she has my hair which I don’t get to see often in fantasy.

WHY DO YOU LIKE COSPLAYING?

It’s really fun to rep your fandom and be creative in your approach. I like going to thrift stores, sewing, and finding materials that match.

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR FAVORITE CHARACTER(S) TO COSPLAY?

Missandei - Game of Thrones
Domino - Deadpool
Maeve - Westworld
Valkyrie - Thor ( got to meet the Russo bros, Anthony Mackie, and writers.)

HOW DO YOU PUT TOGETHER YOUR COSTUMES?

It’s a combo and it depends on what the costume needs. Sewing, thrift stores, foam, costume, and regular jewelry.

WAS HAS BEEN SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE CONVENTIONS/EVENTS TO COSPLAY AT?

San Diego Comic-Con was really cool because it was my first one and felt embraced and encouraged

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE COSPLAY STORIES?

I love Domino from Deadpool and I cosplayed as her. Later I found out I was one of several who was reposted on her personal Instagram. Later, she was at one of our events I couldn't make it to but someone face-timed her for me and we talked!

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES YOU'VE HAD TO OVERCOME BEING A COSPLAYER?

Insecurities of weight, a woman and color and not having a good enough costume. Most people are sweet that you try but I definitely see people be awful to those of color not staying in their lane on social but in person people are great!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE IF THEY WERE INTERESTED IN GETTING INTO COSPLAY?

Start with your favorites and try creating based on current skills so its not so daunting. My first was a dress and hairstyle. Also, give yourself plenty of time if it is outside your comfort

WHAT CHARACTER WOULD YOU LOVE TO TACKLE SOMEDAY?

Hawkgirl! She is so awesome! I can't believe we don't talk more about her. Her wings would be the ultimate challenge

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST COSPLAY ACHIEVEMENT?

Figuring out a decent costume with foam. I made a Valkyrie armor and that was sooooo hard.

WHAT IS SOMETHING ABOUT COSPLAYING THAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU?

I really try to represent as a curvier person black characters in comics, sci-fi, and fantasy. To celebrate how far we've come and how far we'll go. Comics is all about hope and seeing yourself as a hero and its great when you have something in common.