Talent vs Popularity?

While spending way too much time on the computer (It was another hot day out), I was forwarded a link to this article: The Pursuit of Cosplay Fame. It is worth a read.

Just last weekend, some friends and I had been discussing a very similar topic in regards to cooking/talent and reality shows. Even  in 'cooking' competition shows, there are contestants (not so) subtly back stabbing and sewing seeds of disharmony, dissent and digusting lies, in some cases. (I watched an episode as an acquaintance loves  the show and recommended I watch it. I was hoping for some cooking tips and recipes... um... no). 

As a rule, I don't watch reality shows where contestants are 'voted off'. I can't stand the Machiavellian machinations and the bitching that that is associated with it. Unfortunately this seems to be engendering a culture of popularity contests vs admiration for ability or talent; this constant fodder from the television has the ability to reshape viewer thinking, over a period of time. Just like advertisements shape our buying and eating habits. Rather than being judged on  ability and talent, success is being judged by popularity instead, whether engineered or not.  This is not just in costuming... 

Before I go any further, I am letting you know that I am an old school costumer and the following is not a judgement on any costumers, but my personal outlook on costuming. Not everyone has the skills to make their own costume. They may buy it or have it made for them. I have no problem with that. As long, as they acknowledge the artist who made the costume. What is surprising, and a little disappointing,  in changing costuming practices, is the eye opener on how many costumers did not actually make any of their costumes, but claim they have. I feel for the tailor who made the costume should be acknowledged for their work; the model is lauded for how well it is worn. It is a bit like stealing the copyright of a artist or photographer by claiming the work. 

I digress.. sorry.. 

Talent and skill should be recognised! Some costumers are bloody brilliant at their work and their skills could rival professionals in theatre or film. But they don't get the time of day, by many, because they are not a perfect model, or don't have the numbers praising their blog. They should be judged on their skills, not just how popular they are, how many 'likes' or 'followers' they have or how drop-dead-gorgeous they are. If you truly like their work and skill, then they deserve your praise for costuming, whether they have better glamorous photos on the web or not. 

Next time you see someone in costume, don't just check out how sexy they look, how many groupies they have, how professional their photos look, how spiffy their website or blog is or whether you recognise the name or not. Check out their costume, the work involved and the skill required to make it - no matter what size they are, or how popular their character is. And please, don't criticize them because they don't live up to the media's expectation of 'beauty' or if they don't have the minimum requisite likes  that some consider the pinnacle of fame.

This also goes for artists or writers, in fandom or no.

Popularity is just a concept. Talent actually produces something. The popularity will fade, but their skills can only improve if they are fostered and encouraged.