Thousands gather for Winnipeg’s annual Comic Con
Danica Taylor, CONTRIBUTOR
Aaron Nobess standing in front of the many burlap masks he makes and sells. THE PROJECTOR/ Danica Taylor
Thousands of people cosplayed as fictional characters from a variety of games, movies and TV shows at Winnipeg’s annual Comic Con (C4).
“This year, me and my friends dressed up as our Dungeons and Dragons group, so I am the most stereotypical image of a dungeon master I could think of,” said Justin Everhardus, 21, while fixing his wizard hat.
Aaron Nobess sold many masks as his booth, including this tiger one. THE PROJECTOR/ Danica Taylor
Everhardus considers himself a nerd, and finds C4 a great place to meet other like-minded people.
“I love meeting really interesting people, and if I didn’t have this opportunity I think I’d feel empty inside,” he said.
Along with admiring the costumes— most of which are hand-made—many companies and artists come to C4 to sell their merchandise. There are many people who travel to Winnipeg to participate in C4, but there are also some local companies who participate.
Aaron Nobess is a mask-maker who’s been making homemade masks for a year. He makes the masks out of burlap sacks and hot glue.
“I broke my leg last year during Comic Con and had to find something to do,” said Nobess.
Justin Currie, the founder of the illustration and design studio Chasing Artwork, relies on conventions to make a living.
“I basically do this full-time and sell my work at conventions around the world,” said Currie.
C4 has steadily grown more popular in Winnipeg since its opening in 1995. Last year, it welcomed around 48,000 people. With the RBC Convention Centre’s expansion, C4 was able to invite more artists and try out new events.
“It’s a place where you can be a geek to your full potential without being judged,” said Kim Halikas, a former Red River College student. She loves coming to Comic Con for the positive atmosphere and amazing art.
For the first time, C4 featured a Cosplay Alley where participants could take photo shoots with professional cosplayers. C4 also hosted mass gaming tournaments and held their annual costume contest.
C4 participants also had the opportunity get autographs from famous actors such as William Shatner, Lee Arenberg, and Debi Derryberry.
