Poland 🇵🇱
Your nickname and age:
Lorien: I’m Lorien and I’m 25.
Wojti: I’m Wojti, age 24.
Iya: Iya, 27 years old.
How did you discover cosplay and what made you start in this hobby? How long ago?
L: I saw cosplay for the first time during my first anime convention in 2007. It amazed me, but I haven’t considered making my own costume back then, I also couldn’t imagine myself on stage. A few years later I met some cosplayers at gaming event and finally got the courage to create my first cosplay, Malzahar from League of Legends – and I immediately fell in love with this hobby!
W: I discovered cosplay 8 years ago, when my friends started making costumes and I joined them, because it seemed to be fun. That was a great decision and I love doing it!
I: I started cosplaying in 2007 and my first cosplay ever was Konan from Naruto. I learned about cosplay from a Polish magazine and internet. When I started, I thought that most of people at the conventions have a costume, so I didn’t want to be different. Since then, I loved cosplay and it accompanies me until today.
Why did you choose your project for the ICL preselection? Is this your first time joining an international cosplay competition?
L: My friends introduced me to Final Fantasy XIV and from the very first moment in game I knew that I need one of the outfits in real life, I just couldn’t decide which one. I was thinking mostly about White Mage’s iconic robe, because back then I used to play this class, but after premiere of Stormblood DLC I immediately switched to Red Mage’s artifact set. Then, after working on the costume for some time, I thougt it might be worth to give it a try on preselections. ICL finals are going to be my first international competition, also I’ll attend a convention outside of Poland for the first time as well, so I’m more than excited about this!
W: Eugeo is a wise and brave boy in a beautiful armor, so I felt like I need to make that costume immediately. Also, Iya is a big fan of SAO, so I couldn’t say no. It was my second time in preselections, two years ago I was in a duo.
I: I chose Cardinal because I love Sword Art Online and I really wanted to try to make that costume. Before ICL preselections I competed 3 times, twice as solo and once in a duo.
What does cosplay mean for you? And what is your favorite part of the hobby?
L: My favourite part of cosplay is crafting. I’m not really good with performing, it make me incredibly stressed, but I really enjoy the whole process of making something from scratch only with my own hands.
W: I love cosplay for a possibility to be another person and to do something epic. I really like to perform on the stage, no matter if I’m solo or in a group. Let’s rock!
I: For me, cosplay is an escape from reality and it allows me to be creative and learn a lot of different artistic techniques. My favourite part in making cosplay is the process of planning, shopping and completing elements. I also like to sew, but I rather prefer making props.
What do you expect from your visit to Spain? Is this your first time visiting the country?
L: I expect a lot of fun! I can’t wait to meet all the amazing people and have great time together. I’ve never been in Spain before, so I’m also very excited to see it and try local food.
W: I’ve never been in Spain, but I can’t wait to take a refreshing drink during hot Spanish afternoons and watch some lovely landmarks of Madrid!
I: It will be my first time in Spain. I hope to meet some new people, break my inner linguistic barrier and (of course) have a good time!
Have you decided your project for the finals in Madrid? Can you give us a clue?
L: I’m going to take my time and upgrade my costume from preselections.
W: Yeah, I’ve decided. It’s from a very popular game, so it will be a good DABut in international competition! Heh… you got it? Dab?
I: Yes, it will be a character from both loved and hated video game. With very characteristic dances.
Describe the cosplay community in your country using five words.
L: Fast-growing, ambitious, fun, supportive and diverse.
W: Not afraid to take challenges.
I: Creative, helping, openminded, headstrong, ambitious.
