God damn, how do I describe King Kitsu? A true force within cosplay circles, this talented creative crushes armor builds from Voltron: Legendary Defender, experiments with extravagant body-paint projects, and produces larger-than-life ballroom gowns that would make Marie Antoinette drool. Their photoshoots are stunning and oh so cute, especially their group shoots with fellow cosplay enthusiasts. I have admired his work for sometime, and I was honored to be able to pick their brain a bit about how they feel about the community that they have carved out a significant fan base in. Please enjoy!
Black Nerd Problems: Please tell us a little bit about yourself! What makes you tick, what inspires you, what do you do for a living at the moment?
King Kitsu: Hello, my name is Kitsu. I have been cosplaying since 2012. I currently have a part time in retail, but I also do dress commissions and currently in pursuit of a dress making career. I’m mostly passionate in the challenges my cosplays bring me whether it be an intricate prop or detailing in a costume, and of course I’m passionate about the fun I have and bring while wearing my cosplays.
BNP: How has cosplay influenced your life?
KK: Since starting cosplay, it has not only given me confidence and patience, but it has also given me insight in my gender identity and moral values. I’ve learned limits and what I’m capable of along with self worth. I’ve learned about talents that I didn’t even think I could have and skills that I didn’t think I was capable of learning.
BNP: What are your specialties within crafting?
KK: Dress making, prop making, putting creative spins on cosplays, and working well under pressure and a short deadline…
BNP: What are some issues you wish to combat in the cosplay community?
KK: Racism, “blackfacing,” colorism, and “race versions of characters;” bullying, body-shaming, elitism, literally anything negative in the cosplay community. We all cosplay for our own reasons but also cosplay is supposed to be for fun, and we all need to be respectful and support each other.
BNP: Who is your favorite anime hero?
KK: Saitama from One Punch Man. He mostly minds his business unless it’s blown in his face and he’s broke but still likes to help people, and I’m about that life.
Follow along with Kitsu’s cosplay adventures on their Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook social media links below:
Facebook: @kingkitsu
Instagram: @kingkitsu
Twitter: @grandpakitsu
Cover image collage from L – R: (dtjaaaam, U.V. Photography, Marc.overcash)
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