Name: Muri
Location: Madison, WI
Twitter: @akurikocosplay
Facebook: www.facebook.com/akurikocosplay
Photographer(s): Ma Cherie Arielle (http://www.macheriearielle.com/), LJinto (https://www.flickr.com/photos/ljinto/), WhiteDesertSun (https://www.flickr.com/photos/whitedesertsun/), Doug Fullerton (http://dfullertonphotography.com/) and Eurobeat Kasumi (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eurobeat-Kasumi-Photography/181144498573739)
What was your first Cosplay experience?
My first real cosplay experience was at Anime Oasis 2007, where I cosplayed as Princess Zelda from Zelda II: The Adventure of Link. It was such a positive experience for me that my interest in the hobby sort of snowballed from there.
How long have you been Cosplaying?
Since 2006.
Who or what inspired you to take up Cosplaying?
When I was 15, I picked up Chrono Cross, and fell in love with Harle. That year I decided I wanted to be her for Halloween, but my mother refused to help me make the costume. I wanted to be her so badly that I attempted to make it despite not having a clue as to what I was doing. I failed miserably to say the least, but I did pretty well on the shoes, and that was enough to inspire me to learn more.
There had been other characters wanted to be before that as well, but this is the one that sort of flung me into action.
If you had to pick a favorite Cosplay you have worn, or have seen someone else wear, what would it be?
It’s hard to choose a favorite. Right now, Petra Ral is the costume I have the most fun in, but I enjoying wearing all my other costumes as well (a few are just in disrepair, and I haven’t gotten around to fixing them up).
If you had unlimited funds and resources, what Cosplay would you create?
Oh my goodness, let’s see. There are three that I have a hard time choosing between. But I suppose if I have unlimited funds and resources, I could probably make them all. Queen Rutela from Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, Samus Aran (Super Metroid Varia Suit), and Shanoa from Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia.
What advice would you offer to those who are aspiring Cosplayers?
There’s no need to get wrapped up in numbers or popularity contests. That sort of thing is a waste of your energy, which is better spent elsewhere. Dedicate that energy to your craft, and the recognition you wish for will come on its own in time.
To learn more about Akuriko, follow her on Twitter: @akurikocosplay and check out her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/akurikocosplay
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