Kimberley van den Hurk, Netherlands

Kimberley van den Hurk (1)

As the solo representative for the Netherlands at the European Cosplay Gathering 2011 finals Kimberly, was one of the first to represent her country on the international cosplay stage. Kimberly, being very active in the local anime community and a veteran cosplayer, sometimes host panels and workshops at Dutch anime conventions.

Biography

Name: Kimberley van den Hurk

Nationality: Dutch

What is your education / line of profession?

I studied fashion on secondary vocational education level 4 (shortly said I could call myself a dressmaker or tailor). After this I started to work in a fabric store and also try to start my own fashion label.

When and how did you first hear about anime and manga?

That’s probably because of Dragonball Z. When I watched it, I actually got curious to more info so when I searched things up and found a lot of info about Japanese cartoons (anime) and started to get very interested in the culture of Japan. I was probably around 14 years old? So that’s ehm... too long ago xD

What anime/manga made the biggest impression on you?

Haha probably Dragonball Z because it made me search for things. It even made me go into drawing and stuff, made me buy trading cards and got me all into Japanese culture. 

Next to that the fighting game Dead or Alive (DOA) made me think “gaaah her outfit is so cool!! I want to be Kasumi for 1 day” so when I started fashion school and found out about Animecon and cosplay…things really got bad for my wallet haha xD

What is cosplay to you?

Not just a hobby but a passion. Cosplay is also my learning process and with cosplay i somehow dare myself to try new things like drawing patterns, using real leather, using specific techniques, use wood, clay, plastic and foam and it even taught me how to apply make-up. It affects me in a positive way in daily life. From using make-up in daily life but also taught me to dare to say ‘no’ like my characters would. 

Every aspect of starting, making, and wearing had their own happiness and sad moments. I think these moments will teach you a lot about yourself. 

What has been the most fun and challenging costume to craft/construct?

Most challenging was partly Bayonetta and partly Oruha. Bayonetta for her bodysuit, wig and guns that I could attach to her shoes, and Oruha for her wings (my first wings ever xD) and making a wood microphone that actually looks pretty good for a wood try-out.

What would be your dream costume to make?

Demon Hunter from Diablo 3. I’m busy with it... but it’s really something with a lot of new techniques that kinda scares me off xD

http://megumii.com/

Kimberley van den Hurk (2)