Every month the staff at Critical Blast combs the cosplay community for up-and-coming cosplayers who deserve to have a broader audience for their work, taking into account not only costuming skills and spirit, but also how they use that ability in service to others. Through this, we've not only met some talented cosplayers, but also some fine human beings.

Our May 2020 Bombshell of the Month demonstrates multiple facets to her cosplay -- from getting a little catty to just horsing around! The amount of fun she brings to every character she inhabits is evident in her cosplay, both in pictures and in the charities she supports with her talents.

Ladies and gentlemen, we could not be happier to kick off thos month by introducing to you our...

Critical Blast Bombshell, May 2020

Noé Nicky

Yennefer (THE WITCHER 3: WILD HUNT)
photo credit: @j.a.vilches

What is your interest in cosplay?

I started cosplaying in 2013 on a whim! The amount of confidence and happiness I felt the first time I stepped onto a show floor was addicting.  Cosplay allows me to slip out of my skin for a while and be whoever I want to be, it's empowering! It also gives me a channel to unleash some of my creativity, IE: I can create my own characters, morph other characters, and take my own perspective on some!  The cosplay world has introduced me to some of my best friends and I can't imagine my life without it!

How did you get into cosplay, and what was your first cosplay experience?

My first cosplay was Megacon 2013 where I debuted Moonstone as Ms. Marvel! Marvel's "Thunderbolts" and "Dark Avengers" were what hooked me into the comic world, and I was so happy to find a group of people who also loved the anti-hero vibe as much as I do!  I made an amazing group of friends and the experiences I had molded my perspective on the cosplay world.

How has your cosplay evolved since you began?

I had no idea what I was doing when I first sat at a sewing machine fighting with spandex. Now, I can sew just about anything! I've learned how to pattern, make armor, paint, sculpt, etc. I've also grown on the photography side! I understand more about picture posing and facial expression, lighting and editing. Often times, people don't think about everything that cosplaying encompasses, it is a craft and you have to work to develop it.

Zelda (BREATH OF THE WILD)
photo: @jorgeandjordan

What is your "secret identity" outside of cosplaying?

I am a pre-med student, pursuing a career in anesthesiology! Its very challenging but I believe it will be so worth it! I am also a bartender and have been for over 10 years.

What kind of social or charity activities do you get involved in with your cosplay?

On a day to day basis, when I am not working or going to class, you can find me hanging out and working with my horse, (you may even see him pop up in cosplay pictures from time to time). I also really enjoy doing charity work with kids! I have been to hospitals multiple times in cosplay to help bring smiles to the children who are going through hardships. Watching them light up and forget (if even for a moment) what they are going through is so amazing that words can not even begin to describe it.

Black Cat (MARVEL COMICS)
photo: @truevestige

Do you make as much of your own costume as possible or rely on purchased materials -- and is that important overall to cosplaying? 

I don't believe their is just one answer to how someone should go about cosplaying. It is a craft, and up to the cosplayer to define their craft. I make some of my costumes, some have been made by others, and some have just been pieces from my closet thrown together! Cosplay can be personal or it can be a collaboration.

What's your favorite cosplay, your "go to" look that you just love to put on and act out?

My absolute favorite cosplay is Marvel's Black Cat! Remember how I said I love the antihero? Haha. Her character has so much depth and such a sassy personality! When I put on that costume it's a complete transformation! I am Black Cat in those moments.

Where can people go to find you online?

My main cosplay social media is Instagram! Follow me @Noenicky

BONUS

Enjoy this bonus shot from Noé as she delivers a stunning Carmilla from CASTLEVANIA.