The idea of an apocalypse, and the aftermath that follows, is a popular social topic manifested in the countless books and many movies flooding the market. Post-apocalyptic cosplay follows suit.
This social phenomenon is a known among preppers, but what many preppers might be less aware of is the growing popularity of post-apocalyptic crafting. The basic premise here is that the apocalypse hit. You survived. Now, as a means of survival, you take what remains of the world to build something new.
This has become a hobby for many, who show their creativity and artwork (yes, much like trench art, it’s art) at post-apocalyptic events like Wasteland Weekend, Nukelanta, and Junktown. They take certain crafting supplies and convert old clothes, ruined metal, old tires, into post-apocalyptic clothing, armor, weapons, and vehicles. Their skills go well beyond simple gas mask fashion.
Post-Apocalyptic Cosplay Fashion Designers
Many of these people are talented enough to make a side income selling their work on Etsy. While post-apocalyptic crafting might be a hobby (or side income) for many, for others – it’s a profession. I will profile a few of these post-apocalyptic professionals here.
Mark Cordory
Mark Cordory develops post-apocalyptic, horror, and steampunk fashion and products for television, film, stage, and live action role play (LARP). Mark writes on his site:
In the past 4 years the Apocalypse seems to have taken over much of my workshop and I have to say it’s become a real passion for me with the SALVAGED Ware range taking up an increasing amount of my schedule each year. Post Apocalyptic commissions for Festivals, Bands, Escape Rooms and LARP have all come through my workshop in the last couple of years – long may it continue.
He crafts from his home in the U.K. Here is an example of his work:
He also makes post-apocalyptic, creep dolls – and headwear like this, made of recycle rubber tires:
Mia Shinda
Mia Shinda, an artist residing in Germany, describes herself as an “enthusiastic Darkart artist and model in the genre of horror, post-apocalypse, and dark fantasy” (her site). She does commission work, sells merchandise and does bookings for photography, events, and film production.
Here is an example of neck jewelry art she made for a Bastet character, an ancient Egyptian goddess who protected the Pharaohs. Note how she pulls in both post-apocalyptic and Egyptian themes:
The above work was part of a larger project of both an Anubis and Bastet characters, seen here:
Her work recently got her featured on the cover of a LARP magazine:
Dmitri Zaitsev
Also hailing from Germany is Dmitri Zaitsev of Nuclear Snail Studios. He too does commission work, custom costumes, product design in CAD, and concept design. His YouTube channel is the channel to visit for post-apocalyptic crafting videos.
So, while you might not get rich off your hobby, in some cases, you can at least make a living. The post-apocalyptic world is no different. Craft on!