Get To Know: Leo Mathlin | Ignite Chelmsford

Ignite Chelmsford hosts an amazing community of creatives and artists across a huge variety of practices... Let's get to know them!

This month, Bucky talks to Leo Mathlin about cosplay, prop making and supporting creatives in Chelmsford.

How would you describe what you do? 

I’m a cosplayer. For me, that means creating and wearing a costume to bring your chosen character to life! My most recent cosplay (Millie from Helluva Boss) has required me to learn prop making, sewing, wig styling and makeup!

Who, or what, gives you creative inspiration?

I’d say my inspiration comes from the characters in my favourite shows, but ultimately the creators of said shows! I tend to be drawn to more alternative/punk characters visually and love putting my own twist on them. The fun thing about cosplay is that it's all down to interpretation!

If you could wake up tomorrow and suddenly have the ability or means to explore a brand new creative practice, what would it be and why?

Ahh so many to choose from! I’ve always been fond of cartoon/comic art but have never really delved into that medium (apart from the odd game of Gartic Phone!). I absolutely love seeing other people’s art styles, original characters and fanart alike, and would really like to muster up the courage to begin and create my own. The stories and emotions conveyed in comic panels are awesome and I’d really like to explore that. I think there's definitely a fear of being bad holding me back, but like all creative artforms, you’ve got to start somewhere!

What are you working on at the moment and/or what is your next project?

I’m mainly working on repairs to my current cosplays (replacing torn gloves, repairing imp tails etc.). However…next year I’m planning some new cosplays! If you’ve ever heard of the lovely friend-slop game ‘PEAK’, I’m planning to create the head and sash of one of the customisable scouts. The rest of the outfit will likely be a wardrobe cosplay as it mainly consists of hiking gear!

How could Chelmsford better support its creatives, or what creative thing do you think Chelmsford is missing?

I think providing a space for like-minded creatives to create and work on their craft together would be awesome! Kind of like the ‘werkroom’ in Drag Race!

To finish up and refill our creative cups - Recommend us a movie, game, comic, book, tv show, band/musician, or local event (or multiple recommendations if you have them!)

There’s so much great content out there! I’m currently watching this animated series called Haunted Hotel on Netflix and it’s really scratching that itch for an oddball and spectral, yet wholesome show! If you’re into witchcraft, demons, ghosts and all things otherworldly, I’d highly recommend it. I also recommend Cassyette! She’s an awesome alt-rock singer from Chelmsford - she slays HARD. Her music has been circling in my playlists for a number of years now and I just love her heavy style!

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Leo is a LED/Video Technician in the live events industry, a cosplayer and an enjoyer of all things crafting. He loves making zines and turning fictional characters into costumes. You can follow more of Leo's work here.

Ignite Chelmsford is the home for Chelmsford's creative community. Connect, collaborate and create.