Featured Cosplayer: Bethany Maddock

As part of our new series of Featured Cosplayers we decided to have a chat with cosplayer Bethany Maddock.

Please tell us a bit about yourself, likes / dislikes, etc.

I’m really just a big nerd. I spend most of my free time playing video games, being goofy with my friends, and making cosplays. During the week days I work as a Graphic Designer at an online fashion retailer. So art, nerdiness, and fashion. That’s pretty much who I am!

How did you first get into cosplaying and what was your first cosplay?

Almost three years ago I met a co-worker who was really into cosplay. I had always wanted to do it, but never had any friends that shared that interest. The more my co-worker talked about it, the more interested I became in trying it out. I had planned a trip to go to Japan in the spring of 2011, and the exact week before my flight was that horrible earthquake. Needless to say, I canceled my trip, which had been a lifelong dream of mine. I decided that going to Anime Boston would be the next best thing since I couldn’t reschedule. I cosplayed as a re-designed feminine version of Sheik from Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and the response from fellow con-goers was more incredible than I could describe. Everyone was so nice and wanting pictures of me in the costume that I made. I quickly got hooked on the hobby.

What cosplay are you most fond of and why?

Well, if we’re talking about what kind of cosplays I enjoy, that’s a tough question. I really love everything! But if I were to choose.. I’d have to go with video game cosplays because I know more of the characters. But comics is a very close second! I mean who doesn’t love spandex? Am I right?

What are your plans for future cosplays?

Next year I have a pretty solid line-up. For Katsucon (in February) i’ll be making a Harvest Goddess cosplay from the game Harvest Moon. I also plan on making a Dazzler, and a few more Catwomen (Injustice, and Adam Hughes style)

Do you make / design your own costumes / props or do you order them?

I make and design my costumes. Sometimes I buy and re-purpose things but a majority of my stuff is made from scratch. I went to art school, so I feel a need to create all the time. I hope do do more re-designed characters in the future, there’s just something wonderful about taking your own sketches and making them become a reality.

How many conventions do you typically attend, what are your favs and why?

Last year I attended 10 conventions, I think. That number may increase this year. Dragon*Con and PAX East are the big ones for me. Just so many great memories made there.

Are there any cosplayers that you would consider idols or people who have inspired you? Why?

Absolutely! But in all honesty I could probably write a book on all the cosplayers that inspire me. If you follow me on twitter, or see me on Facebook you’ll know how much of a cosplay cheerleader I am. If there’s something that I enjoy, I make sure to tell that person how much I admire their cosplay. That’s so important to me, because I know how amazing it feels when anyone approaches me about my work.

What has cosplaying done for you?

It’s honestly given me a new look on life really. I’ve just made so many talented friends, and have learned so many things that I never could have done before getting into this hobby. I really owe so much to my friend who opened my eyes to all this. She will never truly know how she changed my life for the better. I’m very thankful for it.

Why do you think cosplay is becoming so popular?

Well, I just started myself, so in my opinion, it might just be because more people are spreading the word about how awesome it is! That’s how I got into it at least.

Are there any characters that you’d love to do but have yet to figure out how? What are the roadblocks?

If there’s a will there’s a way! If there’s something I truly want to cosplay, I’ll be damned if I can’t figure out how to make it! The internet is full of wonderful tutorials and willing people to help, there’s nothing that will stop me MUAHAHA!

What advice would you give for first time cosplayers?

Have a freaking BLAST! This whole hobby is supposed to be fun, so if you start feeling too stressed out or too pressured, take a step back. Never let anyone stop you from doing what you love!

If people want to learn more about you, where can they do so?

You can check me out on my Facebook page Facebook/BLMaddock or my Twitter (for random ramblings) @Blmaddock or my tumblr: bethany-maddock.tumblr.com

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Thanks Bethany! – Don’t forget to check out our other cosplay articles or submit your own for consideration.