This week we’re shining our spotlight on NJ cosplayer Karisa Kujo (she/they)!
How long have you been a cosplayer?
I wanna say maybe 2016 or 2017 was my first time cosplaying? But I didn’t really start to get into it until about 2018.
What got you into cosplay?
Ever since I was a kid, I always loved playing dress up and wearing costumes was one of my favorite things about Halloween. As I became a teenager and really got into anime, I would see people in cosplay on the internet and always wanted to go to a con and dress up. Of course as I got older and realized I could live that dream, I started it and the rest is history.
Do you make, buy, or is it a combination?
I typically try to do a combination of both if I can. However, I’m still so new with sewing that there are cosplays that are just easier for me to buy.
First cosplay?
It was Gon Freeces from Hunter x Hunter (and omg was it so bad especially since I had not even a week to prepare)
Latest cosplay?
Yamato from One Piece (right on desktop, above on mobile)
Favorite thing about being a cosplayer?
How I am able to meet so many amazing people as well as being open to learning new skills and improving my craft!
Least favorite thing?
How I know I need to be more consistent with posting but there are times where I struggle with that due to life in general and lack of motivation.
What do you do for work outside of cosplay?
I’m a therapist in the addiction and mental health field.
What are your top 3 fandoms?
That’s hard for me to choose, but I would have to maybe say Attack on Titan, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, and One Piece.
What cosplay are you planning next?
I have quite a few! I have Husk from Hazbin Hotel, Tighnari and Lyney from Genshin Impact, Kafka from Honkai Star Rail, Jill from Final Fantasy 16, and many more due to my upcoming cons.
What’s one piece of advice for new cosplayers?
Please have patience with building your craft and growth and remember, it’s all about having fun!
Where can people find you on social media?
My Instagram and TikTok handles are _mxkujo_
Below is a gallery of some of our featured subject’s cosplays! (All photo credits use the photographer’s Instagram handle.)
