Heather R. Joseph-Witham - Star Trek Fans and Costume Art

Fans of science fiction and of Star Trek are legion. Huge numbers of these attend their conventions attired in highly creative costumes that identify them as "Trekkers" and arouse a spirit of community. Many are affiliated with fan clubs whose members buy or create such attire to be worn at conventions and public events. They come from all walks of life and show up extravagantly costumed not only at science-fiction venues but also at charity fund-raisers and public-service meetings. Klingons and Federation members may appear in the actual world of strip malls and shopping centers as they stage food-fight wars in behalf of the homeless. They surface anywhere they can make a statement about the positive ideals they feel are fostered in the Star Trek universe. Costumers may portray figures from the popular TV show and films as well as invent characters in the tradition of Star Trek. No matter where they may be geographically, their zeal for the show and its values bond them into a community. They must toe a th Minimize