Today we’re joined by Katie, who is also known as KatieBug Cosplay. Katie is a phenomenal cosplayer. They have been cosplaying for a few years and take a special delight in bringing characters to life. Katie is awesome and so passionate about what they do, as you’ll soon read. My thanks to them for taking the time to participate in this interview.
WORK
Please, tell us about your art.
I am a cosplayer, and I have been cosplaying for almost 5 years.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by characters that I really relate to in anime, TV shows, movies, and games.
What got you interested in your field? Have you always wanted to be an artist?
Halloween has been my favorite holiday for as long as I can remember because I love dressing up. I have known about cosplay since I was in middle school, but I didn’t start cosplaying and going to cons until I was just about to start high school. I’ve also been drawing and creating art since I was very young. Though as of recently, I’ve turned my creative energy more into writing and cosplay.
Do you have any kind of special or unique signature, symbol, or feature you include in your work that you’d be willing to reveal?
Many family members and friends call me KatieBug as a nickname, and it really stuck, so I decided to use it as my cosplay handle online. While I’m not too fond of bugs, ladybugs are one of the more manageable ones for me, so I don’t mind being associated with them.
What advice would you give young aspiring artists?
Just keep going. Even though it may seem like what you’re making isn’t the best you can do, practice makes perfect. Keep at it and keep improving.
ASEXUALITY
Where on the spectrum do you identify?
I identify as asexual.
Have you encountered any kind of ace prejudice or ignorance in your field? If so, how do you handle it?
I have not experienced any ignorance in the cosplay world, and I hope it stays that way.
What’s the most common misconception about asexuality that you’ve encountered?
I have had a few instances where individuals believe that my identity is fake or just a front for attention. This is not something I have chosen for myself, it is who I am.
What advice would you give to any asexual individuals out there who might be struggling with their orientation?
Don’t mind what other people say. There are so many misconceptions about the asexuality spectrum out there, and you just have to prove them wrong. Exist and own it. Go out and be the best person you can be, regardless of your sexual orientation, or lack thereof.
Finally, where can people find out more about your work?
You can find me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook as at katiebugcos and on Tumblr as katiebugcosplay. You can also contact me via email at katiebugcosplays@gmail.com.
Thank you, Katie, for participating in this interview and this project. It’s very much appreciated.
