These last few weeks have been truly exciting for so many reasons. We began a new convention season, Black Panther debuted, and #28daysofblackcosplay just wrapped, to name a few!

-pause- Let me introduce myself. My name is Tranquil Ashes, but you can call me Tranq for short! Welcome Tranquilities to my humble space where I write about my cosplay and body positive adventures. Most importantly I’ll be  featuring and giving voice to YOU, beautiful NERDS OF COLOR.

Today’s column will focus on #28daysofblackcosplay (created by the legend Princess Mentality Cosplay) and Katsucon 2018. Katsucon is a Japanese pop culture convention, and is considered by most to be the kick off to the “con season.” What a doozy this one was, huh? I have been a patron of this convention since 2012 and I can say with certainty that this year is the BIGGEST that Katsu has ever been. An unprepared staff and nearly shoulder to shoulder standing left little to be desired. However, despite the crowds I had quite a fun experience. The few things you can count on at this convention is fun with friends, random crazy parties, and photo-shoots… lots and LOTS of photo-shoots! Here are a few event highlights of my Katsucon experience and much deserved shout-outs to some cosplayers that are doing big things this year!

The CosGala Presents: Black Panther Viewing Party

As you all know by now,  Black Panther hit theaters on February 16 to global success and is now the number one movie in the world. Not only has the movie smashed out at the box-office, but also the proud owner of many other accolades. Black Panther is now the largest grossing movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Black Panther is also the film with the most female speaking roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe — which is fitting now that we are celebrating National Women’s History month.  My organization The CosGala (a cosplay community-building event organization) held a private screening at the nearby AMC theatre during Katuscon and the turnout was fantastic! Nearly half of the 92 attendees of this screening came in gorgeous Black Panther cosplay and Afro-centric clothing.  It was a magical event. Check out these gorgeous shots from the event:

Photos by FigureThis Photography

Cosplaying While Brown

As anyone who has been to the National Harbor Gaylord resort can tell you, Katsucon is the PREMIER con for picturesque scenery and lavish cosplay. This year was no different. I was amazed at the beautiful cosplay and the sheer variety of fandoms that were being celebrated throughout the weekend. I had the opportunity to question a few cosplayers who attended about their con experiences so far in 2018, #28daysofBlackCosplay and what to expect from them next! (Pictured in no particular order)

Bawbmobile Art & Cosplay

Eric “The Smoke” Moran

Oona Sura

I am totally going to step on my soap box and say thank you to The Nerd of Color for allowing me the opportunity to grow as a cosplayer and a contributor to the cosplay community in this space! And a extra special thank you to everyone who made these events and features possible. Images by @figuethisin3D

Later FAM!

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