For nearly a decade,
Yaya Han
has traveled to conventions all over the world, adorned in some of the
most intricate costumes ever designed. Yaya was able to spare some time
from her busy schedule to share with us some insight to the brains
behind the beauty.
To give a bit of background, Yaya Han has lived in all corners of the
world: China, Germany, and various parts of the US. Growing up, she’d
always had an affection for anime and manga. It wasn’t until one fateful
con that she was introduced to cosplay and has since built an extensive
career of realizing her favorite characters. Every year, she attends
several events around the world, posing for photo shoots in fantastic,
outfits.
Best of all, she’s truly one of us–
a genuine geek.
Here’s what she had to say:
We’ll start with the easy stuff: What are your favorite characters, either personal or to go as in costume?
Yaya Han as Ada Wong from Resident Evil
It’s
hard to pick favorites because I feel attached to all the costumes I’ve
made, but some are indeed more fun to wear, such as:
Lady Deathstrike – because it is so fun to take fighting photos with everyone at conventions!
Ada Wong – because it’s easy to pose in this costume, and it’s so comfortable.
My Peacock costume – because I had so much fun with the design and creation of this outfit
Gothic Princess – because I love Nene Thomas and her artwork!
What are the most difficult parts of making or wearing your costumes? Are they as comfortable as they are beautiful?
For me the most difficult part is time. I don’t have much of it.
And I also have moved a lot in the past three years so there have been
months where much of my equipment has been in storage in another State,
or I just didn’t have the proper set up to make the sewing and prop
making as easy as I’d liked.
I also anticipate more difficulties ahead, because I want more
practice in sculpting and casting props, and using new materials, so I
can continue to challenge myself. But then again, experimenting blindly
while making a costume is my favorite part of this artform. :)
As for comfort… well, most costumes are not that comfortable
lol. The more elaborate they are, the less comfort there is to be had.
But as women, we are already used to “Beauty is Pain” so cosplay is just
a part of it… I mean come on, 5 inch stilettos and curling irons?
Dangerous!
On the web, there isn’t a site or message board about
cosplay that doesn’t include photos of your work. What do you think
about the popularity you’ve generated?
I feel very lucky to be included, and grateful that when people
talk about cosplay, they would think to use my photo for an example. I
try to use my name recognition to represent this hobby in a very
positive way, to educate people who are not familiar with cosplay, and
to help other cosplayers with whatever knowledge I have. At conventions,
I try to get involved with the programming as much as time allows, such
as doing panels, Q&As and work shops. So if you ever have questions
about cosplay, look for me at a con near you! I’ll be happy to answer
them to the best of my abilities.


Along with designing extravagant costumes, you also have
passion for graphic arts, photography, singing, theater, and dance. Does
artistic talent run in your family?
Yes, mainly from my dad actually. He used to draw and paint, and
is a very good singer. My mom has become more crafty lately as well and
now makes jewelry!