If you’re coming to San Diego Anime Con in costume/cosplay, then join us on Sunday, November 17, 2024! You MUST have a ticket for San Diego Anime Con to participate in the Cosplay Contest!
You MUST have a ticket to San Diego Anime Con to have your registration submission considered.
THE PRIZE
Pictured below is the actual 8 pound WWE-style championship belt that the winner of the Inaugural San Diego Anime Con Cosplay Contest will win!
THE JUDGES
Second Star Cosplay
Second Star cosplay has been cosplaying for over 17 years where her first costume was made in her high school home ec class. She has taught costume making classes with her local libraries and hopes to encourage kids to learn to sew and create. She won Best in Show with the Glitter Guardians at Wondercon 2019, best in show at Pacific Media Expo 2019 as well and is excited to perform more with the veteran idol group, Angel Hearts!
Artemisia Cosplay
Artemisia Cosplay is a queer cosplayer and musician with a heavy focus on sewing in their builds. Hailing from AZ, they have been sewing since 2006 but more recently started cosplaying in 2016, and they have been cosplaying competitively since 219. They enjoy combining their love of music with their performances to make something akin to a music video on stage.
They are chronically ill and on the spectrum, but that doesn’t stop them from pursuing the things they love, even if it takes a little more time than most! They’re always looking to pick up new skills and try new things just for the fun of it, and they love cosplay competitions as it gives them a chance to meet other like-minded individuals and share their love for their characters through performance!
Chikkupea
Chikkupea is a Southern California-based cosplayer with over 10 years of experience creating costumes. She has a passion for sewing and loves anything blue, poofy or glittery. She especially loves the world of competitive cosplay as it allows her to combine craftsmanship and performance in the best way possible!
Cosplay Contest Halftime Entertainment
Grace Aimi
Grace Aimi is an up-and-coming artist and voice in the music scene, known for her soulful and timeless music, exceptional songwriting skills, and proud Islander identity. Born and raised in Okinawa, a southern Japanese island rich in culture, history, and character, her love for music started at a young age. Her journey as a singer-songwriter began to take shape in high school, where she drew inspiration from her own life experiences and influences from both America and Japan, creating a unique fusion that showcases her true artistry. This rising star is paving her way with style and “Grace”, destined to become a household name in the music industry.
With a deep passion for songwriting, Grace Aimi weaves together charming storytelling and a natural ear for pleasant melodies, reflecting her multicultural and bilingual background in her songs. Her sweet soul shines through her music. Using her art and growing influence, the young singer aspires to be a positive light and inspiration to her listeners. She began her online music career on YouTube in 2017, posting covers of popular Japanese songs with her younger brother, Gabriel. Together, they gained a following, not just for their talent, but also for their genuine bond and personalities.
With a small but loving fanbase and enthusiastic support from friends and family, Grace officially launched her career with a bang in August 2020, releasing her debut single “Eternal Sunshine.” She quickly followed up with her EP “PICNIC,” filled with personal lyrics and stories from her high school years, as well as her debut album “If,” which features standout tracks like “Are You Okay?” and “What’s Perfect?” This project, comprising 12 fun, heartfelt, relatable, and addictive songs, was released in 2021 with the guidance of the legendary Japanese producer Chaki Zulu, ASOBISYSTEM, UNIVERSAL MUSIC Japan, and Capitol Records. Grace has also collaborated with fellow artists such as Matt Cab, OZworld, Gliiico, and many more, achieving viral hits in Japan in 2023 with two highly anticipated songs: “Hone Made Aishite” (Love Me to the Bone) in collaboration with the iconic producer Matt Cab, and “Oki Doki,” which resonated throughout Japan and AAPI communities worldwide, created in collaboration with Okinawan creatives, Bigknot Records, and rapper CHOUJI.
While Grace has her own personal dreams for her life and career, her number one aspiration is to help create a better world. Whether it’s through everyday acts of kindness or impactful projects, she sees it as part of her “Shimei” (the Japanese word for purpose) to spread love and positivity to those around her. Grace Aimi is not just making music; she’s making a difference.
Stay tuned for more from this rising star!