Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana The Great.
Hi Diana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a creative, maker, cosplayer, sewing specialist, crafter and all around nerdy individual. Everything began organically enough– as a child I loved Marvel, DC, and that little bit of escapism that you fall into when you get a good book. Middle school brought on anime, and my love for being a magical girl stemmed from there. I didn’t really get a chance to express that love and adoration for the things that I enjoyed until my late twenties/early thirties, where I discovered cosplay, making, and creating. Finding my community was paramount, and without them, I wouldn’t be who I am today.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been an inherently smooth road, but I don’t know of a city out there that has perfect pavement, you know? Struggles for me have come about in the form of body shaming (you’re too big to be that character) racism (that character isn’t black) or ageism (you’re too old to be wearing costumes). At first I internalized a lot of that hatred, and just accepted those statements as they were. Over time and with some better stress management techniques, I learned that if I am true to myself, it doesn’t matter what someone else thinks. As long as I am happy, and doing so safely, that’s the most important thing.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in costume creation and prop creation, entirely from scratch. That comes with making wigs, molding clay, face paint and makeup, garment construction, prop making, some light special FX work, and in some instances, making shoes or shoe covers. I’m most proud of my attention to detail when recreating my inspirations. I don’t inherently try to strive to be different; that’s not my overarching goal. However, I do seek to be authentic, true to myself, and instill a little bit of my flair and passion in each piece that I make, from the smallest prop to the most grandiose wig. I also do my best to show that cosplay can be done, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity; it’s truly for everyone.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
The cosplay community here within the Midwest has been a tremendous support, but I have to say that in the beginning of my cosplay career, there were a few people who were integral for my well being. Fellow cosplayers such as cosplay duo Pros and Cons cosplay, The Cosplay Dad and his daughter Lady Adorah were some of my earliest mentors and supporters, years ago back when I barely knew how to cut EVA foam or sew a decent stitch. I was a baby cosplayer that got into this hobby on accident and set out to prove myself. Even when everything went wrong and my cosplay fell apart at the convention, they encouraged me to keep going and to never give up. Without them backing me in the beginning, I don’t know where I would be now.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.dianathegreat.com
