Stitches of Resilience, with Beverly Downen

You're about to meet a true trailblazer whose journey will stir your soul. From the humblest of beginnings to the bright lights of the cosplay world, Beverly Downen's path is one of perseverance, resilience and an unwavering belief in herself.

Prepare to be moved as Beverly shares pivotal moments that shaped her unconventional journey - like the day her single mother gave her "permission" to chase artistic dreams despite their modest means. You'll be inspired by how Beverly alchemized pain into power after 9/11 by pivoting with courage.

But Beverly's story transcends the personal. This visionary created SheProp, a thriving community empowering underrepresented voices and providing them with a safe space. She also triumphs over vulnerability to publish a daring book on cosplay artistry.

More than a maker, Beverly is a torch-bearer, illuminating the way for others to boldly embrace their passion and potential. Let her powerfully poignant storytelling ignite your spirit to craft your own audacious journey.

Show Notes: 
Introduction
- From small town Vermont to the cosplay world

Early Life & Pivotal Moments  
- Growing up in Vermont with supportive single mom 
- Signing petition in 3rd grade to forge positive change
- Getting the "permission" to follow artistic dreams 

Finding Her Path
- Attending art school, early creative career in New York 
- 9/11's impact, the courage to pivot 
- Discovering cosplay

Crafting Community  
- Creating SheProp for underrepresented makers & artists
- Providing a safe, supportive space away from "male gaze"
- The power of finding your people

The Vulnerability of Writing
- Dream of authoring a book on cosplay with EVA foam  
- Facing fears, working with an editor/publisher
- Growth from the challenging but rewarding process

Words of Wisdom
- "If it terrifies you, try it" - embracing discomfort
- The value of giving yourself permission 
- Sharing her mother's creative legacy

What Inspires Her 
- Cosplay as an artistic outlet and "art therapy"
- Sharing her passion with her stepchildren
- The joy of the cosplay community

The Through-Line
- Her mother's profound influence and supportive lessons
- Finding meaning in difficult experiences  
- Lighting the way for others through her story

Guest Bio: 
Beverly Downen is a maker, author and educator, crafting high-quality costumes based on pop culture characters as well as elaborate original designs. When she’s not crafting a new costume or tutorial in her workshop in Portland, Oregon, she travels to conventions across the country to host workshops and lectures designed to help makers of all experience levels. She is also founder of SheProp, a thriving community for underrepresented makers & artists, providing them with a safe, supportive space, and author of a book …

Outside the cosplay world, Beverly works as an MRI technologist in a busy outpatient clinic at EPIC Imaging, where she has also authored MRI policies and procedures manuals.

Beverly holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute, an Associate of Arts & Sciences in Radiologic Technology & Science from North Country Community College, and MRI Certification Training through Portland Community College.

Learn more about Beverly’s work and connect with her:
Instagram
Downen Creative Studios
Downen Photography
Cosplayer’s Ultimate Guide to EVA Foam
SheProp