Today we’d like to introduce you to Josh Duart.
Josh, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I started cosplaying in 2013 when I was invited to Dragon Con for the first time. I’d never been to a sci-fi/comic convention, and all I knew was that people dressed up in costumes, so I wanted to join in the fun. I created my first ever cosplay – Thranduil, the elven king from the Hobbit movie trilogy, and the response was crazy! I won two costume contests – including a Best in Show from actors of the Hobbit films – and gave a very well-received performance during the Sunday night masquerade as “Party Thranduil.” It was an absolute blast, and I was hooked! Since then, I’ve won numerous costume contests, created and worn more than a few new costumes and have been a Guest at a couple of small cons. Most recently I competed at the World Championships of Cosplay in Chicago as the Western Champion of the USA. I’m so proud to be a part of such a creative, wonderful community and have made so many amazing friends and met some incredible people. I recently partnered with two major sewing and craft retail brands and am working on some very exciting new costume builds. Who knows what the future will hold? I’m super excited to find out!!
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
As a cosplayer/maker, I focus primarily on extremely dedicated replicas of costumes, props, and makeup. I challenge myself with each new build with new techniques and continuously push myself to expand my creative horizons. I find great satisfaction in giving my time and energy to my creations, and once I hit the convention floor in the finished product, seeing people’s reactions. I also love encouraging others to continue to learn as they travel their own maker path. I love sharing tips and tricks and helping others reach their goals. My A-Type personality means I leave no stone unturned, and no detail overlooked when I’m creating my work so it definitely can get tedious, but the joy of the finished product is unmatched.
Artists rarely, if ever pursue art for the money. Nonetheless, we all have bills and responsibilities, and many aspiring artists are discouraged from pursuing art due to financial reasons. Any advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective artists?
I think at first, if you can, have a “regular” full time or part time job and create your art in the time not doing that. And just KEEP CREATING. Success follows those who continuously and relentlessly pursue a goal.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Visit my Facebook page at facebook.com/ThranduartCosplay or find me on Instagram at thranduart.official.
Email me at thranduart@gmail.com if they wish to discuss business or booking opportunities.
Contact Info:
- Email: thranduart@gmail.com
- Instagram: thranduart.official
- Facebook: facebook.com/thranduartcosplay
- Twitter: @thranduart
Image Credit:
DTJAAAm Photography
www.dtjaaam.com
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.
