The Role of Urban Spaces in Cosplay Culture : A case study of Tracon-Tampere

Abstract

Cosplay as a subculture has been gaining traction among teenagers and young adults in Finland, particularly those interested in costuming and role-playing from various media such as manga, cartoons, video games, and films. This research explores how cosplay conventions, specifically Tracon, contribute to a sense of belonging and community bond among cosplayers, and how the use of urban spaces enhances participants' experiences. Utilising a case study approach and an online survey, the study investigates the dynamic interaction between cosplay conventions and urban spaces, highlighting the significance of appropriating these spaces to meet cosplayers' needs and desires.

Findings indicate that Tracon, as a physical space for community activities, significantly fosters a sense of belonging and social inclusivity, transforming urban environments into creative and supportive spaces for cosplayers. The research underscores the importance of urban spaces in enhancing the convention experience and suggests that cities can better support these events by offering adaptable spaces and wider range of harassment prevention. While the study focuses on a single event, it provides valuable insights of the utilisation of urban spaces for subcultural events.