Sparrowhawk Cosplay shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Sparrowhawk, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
When people think of cosplay they associate it with just playing dress up. Although, that is one aspect of it, it’s also so much more than that. In this industry you’re expexted to be a jack of all trades. You learn so many different techniques and skills. From wig styling, to 3d modeling, sewing, making armor and props or sometimes drafting your our own patterns. Most of the time this is all being executed by one individual, not a team like you see in other industries, for example, costume departments for TV and movies. There’s so much artistry and passion behind each costume piece attached to one single cosplayer.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My brand is Sparrowhawk Cosplay. My business is local to Houston, Texas. Over a decade ago, comic con took over my life, which lead me down the path to becoming a cosplayer. I’ve been making costumes and props since 2021. My specialties are eva foam armor, props, artificial chemical weathering and blueprint construction. Through my business, I have had the privilege of traveling around the US and connecting with people who have a passion to learn about the craft. Sharing the knowledge I’ve learned over the years with other aspiring artists is a huge part of what I do. Conventions are an outlet in which I’ve been able to share that knowledge and my expertise by curating hands on workshops and panels demystifying my work process.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My Mother, She has always been a pillar in my life. Someone I aspire to be. Especially when it comes to being a hard worker. She’s dedicated to her family and making sure everyone is provided for before herself. When she puts her mind to something, she looks at all the finer details. Even if no one is watching or giving praise, she strives for perfection in whatever she does. I try so hard to apply the things she has taught me, the wisdom she has passed down to me shine through what I do in my daily life and my work.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
When I no longer wanted to be defined by it. I’m a firm believer in channeling negative energy and turning it into something positive. It’s okay to feel pain, sadness or anger, but it’s important to never let it control you. Put those feelings into a hobby and you’ll be surprised where it takes you. Some of the most talented artists are people who struggle internally. When you pour yourself into something creative, and take a step back after you’re finished, it’s a feeling of euphoria. You created something beautiful out of a not so great time, that you can be proud of.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That you should always be grinding to the top. There’s a lot of pressure to participate in burnout culture to stay relevant. Whether that’s getting gigs, creating bigger and better costumes, or generating content for social media. Cosplay is a very over saturated industry. I’m here to say you don’t have to have take gigs all the time to be import. You don’t have to have a large following to have a successful or reputable business. You don’t have to create bigger or more elaborate costumes to stay relevant. The quality in your work is what matters more than the quantity. It’s a very slippery slope to lose yourself on. Stay true to what you’re doing and the right people will notice.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I am creating. Art therapy is a very real thing. It’s personally helped me get through some tough times. I’ll turn on music or a podcast and envelope myself into a project for hours. Making costumes is like a giant puzzle your brain is trying to deconstruct while your hands reconstruct it to it’s finale form. The instant gratification I feel when a project is completed always trumps whatever worries I had in the current moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SparrowhawkCosplay?ref=seller-platform-mcnav
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparrowhawkcosplay?igsh=MW9rd21heGJtdjB1Yg==
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@sparrowhawkcosplay?si=mdao27rgZGxd3HQR
- Other: sparrowhawkcosplayinquiry@gmail.com
Image Credits
@j.a.vilches on Instagram
@juengelphotos on Instagram
