#FeatureFriday with Tranquil Ashes

Today we have a great interview with Tranquil Ashes! Read the full thing below!

My name is Anita! Best known as Tranquil Ashes. I am a Baltimore Native, World Traveler, MakeUp loving, Game of Thrones nut who’s fav food is NOT chocolate.

How and when did you get into cosplay?
I’ve always liked cosplay, ever since Yaya Han started really coming into her own on the scene. However I started cosplaying in earnest in 2011 after my return working in Japan.
 
How did you come up with your cosplay name?
I’ve always like names that were oxymoronic in nature and when I was younger I was fascinated with the rising phoenix motif and thus the name was born!
 
What do you do when you're not in cosplay or geeking out?
Well my previous job I was a video game tech agent, but it’s a secret who I worked for! However I love hanging out with my friends. We are all nerds so there are very few things that I do that wouldn’t be considered nerdy lol I am also a makeup artist and I both plan and do the makeup services in shoots in the DMV area.
                                    
What is your proudest cosplay accomplishment?
My proudest cosplay moment would definitely be my Battle Rose Quartz armor. It was my first real armor build. I had support from two great artist in some of the details, and it was just such a wonderful reaction. I’ve updated this cosplay twice and I fully enjoy what I’ve created. Steven Universe is one of my favorite series and I’m happy to give the show justice.
 
What cosplay(s) are you working on right now?
My cosplay list is SO long. I am currently working on Genderbent Robin from Young Justice, Morrigan from Darkstalkers, and definitely more characters from Steven Universe.
 
Who is your cosplay idol/inspiration?
The first person that I saw make cosplay into a life passion was Yaya Han. She is definitely my initial inspiration. Ivy Doom Kitty is a plus size cosplayer like myself and she showed me that everyone no matter what body type could pursue their passion in the cosplay field and be proud of it. There are so many other cosplayers that I admire and enjoy that the list is endless.

What is your dream cosplay?
I’ve never been a sailor scout. As simple as that sounds, it’s the anime that started it all for me. I was in middle school when I first saw it and I was hooked immediately. Sailor Moon is one of the fandoms I want to do justice so when I do a sailor scout, specifically Sailor Pluto it will be awesome.
 
What is your favorite convention to attend and why?
My favorite convention would have to a tie between New York City Comic-Con and Katsucon. NYCC is in Hells Kitchen NY and there is an endless supply of things to do in that city. On top of that NYCC media/sci-fi and comic related content is exceptional. I’ve never had a bad time at that convention. Katsucon is simply a good time. Everyone is extremely friendly and nice, and the parties are on legendary tier! Lol
 
Do you have any cosplay or convention pet peeves?
One of my pet peeves at conventions would definitely be con funk lol. The bigger the convention, the more body to body contact and well hygiene is tested the most in these times!
 
Do you have any horror stories or mistakes you've made that others can learn from?
STAY HYDRATED! I get hot so easily it’s a curse! Sometimes I’m wearing a multi-layered cosplay or Armor and want to avoid going to the restroom often because it’s a pain to take everything off and put it back on again! However drinking water will keep you cool and it’s healthy! On any given convention day you’re walking literal miles running all over the convention center, so make sure to rest, drink water and take care of yourself!
 
Do you have any tips or words of encouragement for other cosplayers?
Don’t allow anyone to tell you, you can’t. You can cosplay whomever you want. If it’s your passion, simply give it your all and it will be worth it.