Below you can find our 2018 programming schedule!
For a list of panelists and their panels in alphabetical order, please see our 2018 Panelist Schedule page.
For a mobile-friendly schedule, go to https://www.whimsycon.org/konopas-0.8.0/2018WhimsyCon/.
You can download the 2018 program book here!: 2018 WhimsyCon Program
Maps
Ground Floor Map
Second Floor Map
12th Floor Map
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Program Grids
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Schedule
2018 WhimsyCon Anthology
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Main Events
Jason Henry Evans, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Milton J Davis, Veronica R. Calisto
Come and enjoy readings by some of the authors in the 2018 WhimsyCon Anthology, including our Author Guest of Honor.
2019 WhimsyCon Anthology
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Sandra Wheeler
Information session and Q&A regarding the 2019 WhimsyCon Anthology, including deadlines and other technical details.
3D printing for Costuming
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Charles Orndorff, Tauni Orndorff
This demonstration and discussion shows how you can design and 3D print costume pieces. We will talk about materials, software and devices.
3D Printing in Costuming
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Charles Orndorff, Tauni Orndorff
This demonstration and discussion shows how you can design and 3D print costume pieces. We will talk about materials, software and devices.
Afternoon Tea with the Captain
Saturday, 2:00 PM-4:00 PM, 12th Floor Airship
Aria Fawn, Melanie Unruh
Afternoon tea is part ritual, part mini-meal, and a 100% lovely time. Come join Captain Craig Griswold in our WhimsyCon Airship on the 12th floor for tea and mingling, with live art by painter Aria Fawn. Seating will be assigned for the main tea with open socializing during the cake course. Wear your finery and enjoy the indulgence. Sign up early to sit at the Captain’s table!
Alternative Marketplace: Have You Paid Your Dues
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Peri Charlifu, Amber Peter, Chaz Kemp
Let’s face it, it’s a tough world for the artist and even tougher to break into the magazine and book cover markets. Let our Panel of professionals give you some hints about how to succeed in the art world.
Ancient Inventions
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Mike Cervantes, Paul Lell
Archimedes invented the lever and fulcrum about 2400 years ago. Besides these simple tools, what, more advanced inventions did they have back then? Steam powered toys? Electroplating? Tell me more!
Art Jam
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Atrium-Demo Area
Chaz Kemp, Aria Fawn, Pink Pitcher
Sit down and draw for an hour! Toss around ideas with other artists and flex those art muscles. All skill levels are welcome.
Art of Body Motion
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Atrium
Cori
Somatic Awareness Principles. Easy exercises to bring awareness to how one’s body moves and learning to listen to how to allow for change.
Author Mega Autograph Session
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Main Events
A.M. Burns, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Carol Van Natta, Carolyn Kay, Guy Anthony De Marco, Ian Brazee-Cannon, Lou J Berger, Mason J. Torall, Mike Cervantes, Milton J Davis, Paul Lell, Shullamuth Ballinger, Thomas A Fowler, Tonya L. De Marco, Veronica R. Calisto, Vivian Caethe
Many of our authors will be available to sell their books, provide autographs, and visit with fans.
Author Mega Autograph Session II
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:30 PM, Main Events
Additional time to socialize and purchase books from some of our attending authors.
Author Readings
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
J.A. Campbell, J.L. Forrest, Lou J Berger
15-minute readings by authors J.L. Forrest, Lou J Berger, and J.A. Campbell.
Author Readings
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Aaron Michael Ritchey, J.D. Harrison, Veronica R. Calisto
15-minute readings by authors Veronica R. Calisto, Aaron Michael Ritchey, and J.D. Harrison.
Author Readings
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Scott Beckman, Shullamuth Ballinger, Stant Litore
15-minute readings by authors Scott Beckman, Shullamuth Ballinger, and Stant Litore.
Author Readings
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Wind Star A – Literary
Carol Van Natta, Catherine Winters, Paul Lell
15-minute readings by authors Carol Van Natta, Paul Lell, and Catherine Winters.
Author Readings
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Richard E. Friesen, Terry Kroenung, Van Aaron Hughes
15-minute readings by authors Terry Kroenung, Van Aaron Hughes, and Richard E. Friesen.
Author Readings
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Dylan Edwards, J.D. Harpley, Sam Knight
15-minute readings by authors J.D. Harpley, Sam Knight, and Dylan Edwards.
Author Readings
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Dana Bell, Jessica Lauren Gabarron, Mario Acevedo
15-minute readings by authors Dana Bell, Jessica Lauren Gabarron, and Mario Acevedo.
Automata: Machines Mimicking Life
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Richard Blake
The nearly lost history, art & science behind clockwork-based toys that mimic animal and human motions.
Ballroom Dancing
Saturday, 9:00 PM-10:50 PM, Main Events
Jason Henry Evans
Whether a fan of historical or ballroom dances, or you just like to watch people move to music, dances are for everyone!
Bartitsu for Self-Defense
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Terry Kroenung
Learn more about the exotic self-defence system Bartitsu, the real Edwardian mixed martial art used by Sherlock Holmes to dispatch Moriarty, developed in real life by British engineer Edward William Barton-Wright.
Bawdy Songs of the Victorian Era
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Olivia Wylie, Pink Pitcher
An interactive experience on the history of Victorian-era bawdy songs and dirty music. Short descriptions of Victorian slang, the history of music halls, and the rise of printed music as a method of dissemination. Lyric sheets will be handed out; learn the stories behind the most infamous of ditties.
Blanket Forts (adult session)
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Mike Cervantes
Blankets, coloring books, crayons, and stuffed animals. Wind down the night, make a fort and relax. Adults and calm teens only please.
Body Image in Science Fiction & Fantasy
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Betsy Dornbusch, Jodi M Franklin, Vivian Caethe
Delve into body image and how Science Fiction and Fantasy have paved the way and also hindered progress.
Bootblacking
Friday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Atrium
William
Got creaky cuirasses or broken bracers? Join Leather Bootblack William throughout the weekend in the atrium as he demonstrates the proper way to care for your leather accouterments.
Building and Cultivating Your Creative Community
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Carolyn Kay, Traci Cartwright
How do you find people with shared creative energies to build community that inspires and helps you grow as an artist, author, musician, crafter, etc? Learn how others have found and built safe, creative communities with a spirit of helping one another thrive.
Building the Perfect Plot
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind Star A – Literary
A.M. Burns, Betsy Dornbusch
Have you ever wanted to write a great story with a killer plot? Come join a panel of authors and learn how they compose a plot. We’ll discuss the Hero’s Journey and other tropes, and teach you the necessary parts for a great story!
Chainmaille 101
Saturday, 12:00 PM-1:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Billy Van Ark, Ronin
This hands-on class will walk you through the basics of making chainmaille (a.k.a. maille). We’ll cover the tools of the trade (pliers, rings, and patterns), and learn how to make a simple piece of maille that you’ll take home with you!
Chainmaille 102
Sunday, 10:00 AM-11:50 AM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Billy Van Ark, Paul Lell
Chainmaille harder. If you have prior experience, or attended Chainmaille 101, this is the class for you!
Character Focused Storytelling
Saturday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
J.D. Harrison, Vivian Caethe
Theme, action, plot, or character driven; what do these mean, and what does character focused storytelling look like?
Characters Are Who, Not What
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Carol Hightshoe, A.M. Burns, J.D. Harpley, J.L. Forrest, Milton J Davis
When writing characters not like ourselves, authors can make the mistake of thinking stereotypes represent the diversity they are striving for. Learn what stereotypes and tropes exist, and how they can be challenged to write better and more diverse characters!
Closing Ceremonies
Sunday, 4:00 PM-4:30 PM, Main Events
Nikki Ebright, Kitty Krell, Tawny Fritz
Come recap the weekend, relive the highlights, hear a few closing words from some of our guests, and say goodbye for another.
Color In
Friday, 8:00 PM-10:50 PM, Atrium
Veronica R. Calisto
Join fellow con-goers for a coloring session in the atrium. Bring things to color and items to color with or use the provided materials! Enjoy some quiet coloring time after a long busy day.
Commission Work: Designing Others’ Visions
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Aria Fawn, Amber Peter, Sarin Tatroe (Sariochan Arts)
Why is it so hard to design for someone else’s vision? Why have some of us given up on commission work all together?
Concept Art in Action
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Wind River A – Art
Chaz Kemp
The main goal of concept art is to convey a visual representation of a design, idea, and/or mood. In this panel, we’ll get the whole room to draw an item that could be in film, video games, etc.
Convention Horror Stories
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Wind River B – Costuming
Guy Anthony De Marco, Jan Scott-Frazier
Come and hear stories of some of the convention guests’ strange, sublime and horrible experiences.
Coping with Character Deaths
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Wind Star A – Literary
Carol Hightshoe, Ian Brazee-Cannon, J.D. Harpley, Losing Lara
Do you watch movies and TV shows, or read books, comics, etc, only to have your heart ripped out when your favorite character DIES? If so, then this panel is for you! We will discuss theories behind why we think our faves die, potential tropes between them, and have the opportunity to share our feelings around people who get it. Bring your own tissues.
Corsets Q&A: Tightlacing, Waist Training, and Myths
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Main Events
Kitty Krell
Lets answer some questions regarding corsets, materials, fit, construction, and what to look for when buying, as well as addressing common corset myths.
Cosplay Excursions and Adventures
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Melanie Unruh, Amy Griswold, Victoria Regina
Excursions and Adventures for the Sartorial Exhibitionist. Cosplay isn’t just for conventions; dress up and go out and about in your community. Ideas for venues and activities, getting together with like-minded folks, and advice for avoiding issues.
Cosplay for Mental Health
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Voniè Stillson aka Lady Vo
This will be an interactive discussion about how cosplay benefits mental health through creative expression & community. Discussion will include backing from dance movement therapy theorist as well as traditional psychology theorist.
Costume Contest
Saturday, 5:30 PM-6:30 PM, Main Events
Erin Card, Dame Ursula Whiffenpott, Jan Scott-Frazier, Kevin Frost, Tonya L. De Marco
Join host Erin Card as entrants show off their fabulous and creative costumes and are judged by our panel of special guests.
Costume Contest Green Room
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Erin Card
This room is set aside for the Costume Contest participants to prepare before the Costume Contest. No peeking!
Costume Swap
Saturday, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM, Atrium
Have a bunch of costume items you no longer want cluttering up your home? Exchange them to the costume swap. Leave what you want, take what you want. Items left at the end will be added to the “freebies” table.
Costuming 101
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind River B – Costuming
Ana MacDonell, Amy Griswold, Kevin Frost, Tauni Orndorff
How do you get into costuming and cosplay? What you need to know to decide which cosplay to make, how to research for the project, how to find or make wigs, props, clothing, armor, etc, and finally, how to take care of yourself and others while in costume. Great for beginners and those in a rut that need a little push back into the hobby!
Costuming for Accessiblilty
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Voniè Stillson aka Lady Vo, Janet Smith, Lady Z
A discussion on how various people’s needs are different so costume needs are different.
Costuming for Every BODY
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Wind River B – Costuming
Amy Griswold, Janet Smith, Pink Pitcher, Ronin
A detailed look into proper proportioning of your costume to fit any and all body types. If you are lost at how to take your costume from eh to “Wow that looks amazing!” the hidden secret is proper proportion!
Cover that Piano Leg!
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Amber Peter
Victorian attitudes toward sexuality aren’t quite what you thought that they were.
Crafting and Chatting
Sunday, 1:00 PM-2:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Open costume repair time. Come by for some social time with other fiber arts crafters. Bring your craft project in progress; we know you have at least one.
Crafting: Fact and Fiction
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Adam McLaughlin
Could you melt a steel sword down and pour a new one (looking at you, Game of Thrones)? What about a bronze sword? A look at the realities of working with metal in fictional worlds.
Create a Steampunk Cuff!
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Pink Pitcher
Discuss textile advancements in the early modern period while creating a cuff to suit your own style! Must be capable of threading a needle (will instruct), all materials provided.
Create a Steampunk Cuff!
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Pink Pitcher
Discuss textile advancements in the early modern period while creating a cuff to suit your own style! Must be capable of threading a needle (will instruct), all materials provided.
Creating Multi-Cultural Steampunk Characters
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Mario Acevedo, Carolyn Kay, Chaz Kemp
Let’s brainstorm a steampunk character that steps outside the normal upper-class British box. Audience participation is welcomed.
Creativity and Mental Health
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Jan Scott-Frazier
A look at both designing characters with psaychological issues as well as how mental health affects creativity and how to work most effectively with it. Jan has a Bachelor’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and has had a private therapy practice
Creativity Roundtable
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Chaz Kemp, Guy Anthony De Marco, Peri Charlifu, Sarah Menzel
What drives creative people, inspires us, keeps us going when the muse has gone out for pizza and left us sitting at our desks…alone…in the dark. Artists, writers, actors, musicians or just becoming one, come join us.
Critique Groups: Care and Feeding Without Getting Your Hand Bitten
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Jessica Lauren Gabarron, J.L. Forrest, Sam Knight, Van Aaron Hughes
Most established authors will recommend “the right” critique group for aspiring writers. What are some of the things to look for and pitfalls to avoid? Be wary and be wise by knowing how to get yourself into the right company.
Crossplay & Genderbending: The Art of Cross-Gender Costuming
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Erin Card, Melissa Koons
How do you approach cosplay when the character you love is a different gender or sex? Come join our discussion on reasons and techniques for manipulating your body, or the character’s look to fit yours.
Cut to Size
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Dame Ursula Whiffenpott, Lady Z, Mistress Mab, Voniè Stillson aka Lady Vo
Flattering costuming comes in all sizes; how to design and build beautiful clothing that fits larger people.
Difference Engines: Mechanical Brains, Analog Computers
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Richard Blake
Before the digital era, the world’s engineers, scholars, and tradespeople built elegant engines of logic to aid them in their calculations. Visit a world where bones and cogs are the cutting edge of computation and have hands-on time with computing artifacts from the 15th-20th centuries.
Discussing Combat in Fiction
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind Star A – Literary
Kal Spriggs, Melissa Koons, Sam Knight, Traci Cartwright
The good, the bad, and the ugly scenes of combat and action including the differences between games, movies, and literature. Also a discussion of the morality and emotional impact both upon the audience and the characters involved.
Diversity in Fandom
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
J.A. Campbell, A.M. Burns, Amalie Howard
What does diversity mean practically? How do writers show and not tell when it comes to making sure a variety of people are represented?
Doktor Conundrum’s Electric Imaginarium
Saturday, 10:00 AM-11:00 AM, Main Events
Richard Blake
Join Doktor Silas Conundrum and his Orb of Wonders (a 600,000 volt Van de Graaff static electricity generator) as they perform feats of occult mysticism including levitation, telekinesis, spontaneous illumination, and animation of the dead! Amazement will abound; volunteers encouraged!
Doll Masquerade
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Dame Ursula Whiffenpott
Dolls enjoying showing off their costumes too! Bring your fabulous ladies and gents to walk the mini-runway.
Draw Off (Art Track)
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Atrium-Demo Area
Sarin Tatroe (Sariochan Arts), Pink Pitcher, Tawny Fritz
Artists are given a prompt from the audience and a time limit to draw their quick masterpiece. Ready, set, go!
Electronics in Costumes & Props
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Erin Card, Angela Sheehan, Charles Orndorff
If you’re ready to take your costume or prop to the next level of awesomeness; adding lights, sounds, or moving parts will put you there and beyond. Come see some of the incredible possibilities of costume electronics and the hows and wheres of getting started on your own projects!
Epic Rap Battles of Literature!
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Seth Phillips, Jason Henry Evans, Shullamuth Ballinger, Thomas A Fowler
Two teams go head to head in a rap battle where the topics are pulled from our favorite series and genres. Audience members are able to join teams too. Fight!
Ethics and Art
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind River A – Art
Sarah Menzel, Aria Fawn, Guy Anthony De Marco
How do ethics affect the artist? Talk about different ideas and situation, including pricing, copyright, stealing ideas, borrowing themes, payment, taxes, and how we treat each other!
Exploding TARDIS Painting
Saturday, 3:00 PM-5:50 PM, Atrium
Kick back, relax, and let your creative juices flow! Blue Jasmine Studios presents this beginner-friendly class. Create your own beautiful ‘Doctor Who’ inspired canvas painting. Whether you are new to painting, or one of the Old Masters, you are sure to have a good time! Our experienced instructor will guide and encourage you as you follow a series of simple steps. Everyone gets to keep their masterpiece! Bring the whole family for painting fun! Recommend for ages 10 and up, children should be accompanied by an adult. Class is offered at a special show discount, $25/person. Seating is limited. Please note, registration is non-refundable (we cannot refund a missed class).
Fabric Resources
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Lara Beckwith, Melanie Unruh
Modern textiles that approximate Victorian fabrics, and where to find them.
Faerie Costuming
Friday, 8:30 PM-9:30 PM, Main Events
Nissa LaFete, Tomas O’Dreams
What do you do when your costume is part of your job! Tips, ideas, tricks and of course a few fun stories from our favorite fae on how they’ve incorporated fantasy elements into their costuming.
Faerie Treasure Bag – Collection Prizes
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Tomas O’Dreams, Blossom the Faun, the Librarian Fairy Mrs. Lula Jewel
Time to find out which treasures the Faeries treasure the most! Bring your Faerie Treasures and turn in your collections to win prizes!
Fan Art vs Intellectual Property
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Aria Fawn, Chaz Kemp
If it’s not your intellectual property, does it have a place in the art show? Is it even legal? How far is too far when it comes to being inspired by your favorite movie, T.V. program or book?
Fantastic Beasts – Create a Creature
Saturday, 1:00 PM-2:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Newt Scamander is on the hunt for new magical creatures. Children of all ages are welcome to come make your very own Care of Magical Creatures book and a new magical creature to add to Newts’s collection.
Fantasy Map Creation
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Main Events
Carolyn Kay, Dylan Edwards, Milton J Davis
Authors and Artists will work together to create a fantasy maps from inception and planning to final creation with audience input.
Fashion and Music, Hand-in-hand
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Voniè Stillson aka Lady Vo
Explore the connections between musicians and fashion in the Steampunk and fantasy genres.
Favorite Heroes and Villains in Steampunk
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Carolyn Kay, Aaron Michael Ritchey, J.A. Campbell, Tonya L. De Marco
Who are your favorite heroes and villains in steampunk tv, movies, and literature?
Feminism and Inclusiveness in SF/F and Fandom
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Losing Lara, Catherine Winters, Jessica Lauren Gabarron, Kim Klimek
SF/F has grown to be incredibly inclusive in some ways in the past five years or more. But there is still work to be done. What does that work look like and how can we personally make a difference?
Fiber Forensics with Colorado Fabrics
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Nancy Parker
Explore behind the scenes and learn about the rewards and challenges of running our one of a kind fabric store, including sourcing and merchandising. Learn fabric content identification by employing fire, chemicals and your senses.
Fiber Forensics with Colorado Fabrics
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Nancy Parker
Explore behind the scenes and learn about the rewards and challenges of running our one of a kind fabric store, including sourcing and merchandising. Learn fabric content identification by employing fire, chemicals and your senses.
Fiberglass for props and armor
Saturday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Ronin
Come learn about using fiberglass for costume prop and armor construction! Learn the do’s and don’ts, safety, and much more to take this material from scary to easy.
Fighting the Day Job
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Stant Litore, Seth Phillips, Thomas A Fowler
How do writers and artists do it? The running joke about being starving artists isn’t a joke. Finding time to write/do art and still have a day job, family, and manage working to pay the bills while creating your art.
Fireside Reading with Stant Litore
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Stant Litore
It’s a metaphorical fireside, but Stant’s readings will warm you and chill you and leave you ready for more.
From Fan to Producer
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Main Events
Kitty Krell
Most people who sell what they create started off as fans themselves. Here’s a chance to learn how they went from loving what they do to doing what they love.
Games and Fandom Tie Ins
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Paul Lell, Bill , Guy Anthony De Marco, Mason J. Torall
More and more people are doing Kickstarters to fund the next brilliant game idea. Discuss game and module design, game mechanics, GMing, and media tie-in writing.
Geek Songwriting
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Seth Phillips, Losing Lara
Our panelists discuss songwriting as a storytelling form, and play some songs from their repertoire.
Geeky (Starry) Night Painting
Saturday, 11:00 AM-1:50 PM, Atrium
Brenna
Another fun painting class from Whimsical Whiskers! We’ll walk you though each step as you create your own masterpiece inspired by Starry Night. Make it your own with special geeky additions. Beginners or old masters are welcome. Kids 10+ w/adult.
Gender Representation in Fandom
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Catherine Winters, Carolyn Kay, Dylan Edwards
People of all genders enjoy fandoms, but books, movies, and video games are generally not representative. What have we learned and what can we improve on?
Get Up Off That Floor
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Erin Card
Tired of cutting on the floor? We’ll draw from experience in professional costume shops and small home business studios to show you clever ways to improve your costuming set up. Bring your questions and space challenges.
GMing 101
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Brett J Baker, Kerry Major, Mason J. Torall, Pink Pitcher
Do you want to run a roleplaying game or are you a player who wants to know what really goes on behind the GM screen when the snacks have run out and the players have gone home? Come learn more about being a GM.
God Made the Devil Too: Villians
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Wind Star A – Literary
Carol Hightshoe, Dana Bell, J.A. Campbell, Richard E. Friesen, Scott Beckman
What would Star Wars be without Darth Vader, Superman without Lex Luthor? A discussion on how a good villain is vital to an interesting conflict.
Hall and Stage Costuming
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Erin Card, Tonya L. De Marco
Star of the Stage or Fabulous in the Hallways, each type of costuming has unique challenges and areas where they shine. Come learn more about how to look fabulous in your chosen venue.
Harry Potter House Feud
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Ana MacDonell
A Harry Potter twist on the old tv show Family Feud. Bring your House team, and be ready to win points for your Hourglass. Never tickle a sleeping dragon!
Hats to Spats
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Melanie Unruh, Amy Griswold, Kira Cook, Pink Pitcher, Victoria Regina
Dress accessories make the Genteel Steampunk. Ideas and resources for adding an air of authenticity to your Neo-Victorian attire.
History of Tarot
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Vivian Caethe, Amber Peter, Kira Cook, Tawny Fritz
Tarot started as a card game and transformed into an occult tool during the Victorian era. Join us as we journey through the history of Tarot and its impact on the Victorian era and beyond.
How Much is that Dragon in the Window
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Peri Charlifu
How do you come up with a price for your work? Pricing strategies, marketing tools and tricks, as well as secrets from artists you love.
How Not to Get Published
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Carol Hightshoe, Richard E. Friesen, Scott Beckman
What are some of the pitfalls involved in the pursuit of a writing career; what are some of the gotchas and consequences? Authors talk about their experiences and, in some cases, how they’ve gotten in their own way.
How to Effectively Run a Role Playing Game
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Bill , Brett J Baker, Mason J. Torall
Have you ever run a game that fell apart or left folks wanting? Have you had players arguing during combat about rules? Or just curious about how to run a great campaign? We can help!
How to Kill Your Best Friends (And Get Away With It)
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Lou J Berger
GRRM isn’t the first to kill beloved characters, but arguably he made it fashionable. When is it appropriate to drop a piano on protagonists and their sidekicks? How can you do it so it draws your fans in instead of pushing them away?
How To Support Small Artists
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Losing Lara
When it comes to the many types of creative work, there are millions of small artists out there who need your help! This can be a little overwhelming, but in this panel we will discuss the easy (even free) ways you can help the artist in your life!
Ink and Watercolor Demo
Friday, 9:00 PM-10:00 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Tawny Fritz
Join Artist Guest of Honor Tawny Fritz as she demonstrates her method for creating unique and powerful images for The Divine Coven tarot deck.
Invent Imaginary Religions for an Imaginary World
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Stant Litore
On your imaginary world, what do people worship and why, and how does this drive your characters and your story? Come invent some religions!
Inviting Mara to Tea
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Kira Cook, Losing Lara
Mara, the demon embodiment of illusions, anger, doubt (and more), is welcomed by the Buddha, who invites him to tea. How to welcome your demons and find compassion for your fears and yourself.
Is Digital Art Cheating?
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Wind River A – Art
Sarah Menzel
The trend in art seems to be moving to the digital medium. Is push-button art cheating, or is there more to it ? Can a monkey do digital art, or does it still take skill, knowledge, and creativity?
Is It True You Always Have Story Ideas?
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Sam Knight, Guy Anthony De Marco, Ian Brazee-Cannon, James A. Hunter
Panelists quickly come up with a story based on the audience’s suggestions.
Jules Verne
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Ana MacDonell, Terry Kroenung
Learn more about this French novelist, poet, and playwright and how he came to influence a whole genre of sci-fi and fantasy (that which we call steampunk).
Karaoke Roulette
Friday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
The machine has a mind of its own! Come and see what song pops up and jump in!
Learn to Love Your Writing
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
James A. Hunter, J.D. Harrison, Melissa Koons, Stace Johnson, Veronica R. Calisto
Everyone is their own worst critic. Stop worrying and love your writing: a motivational panel. How to stop hesitating because you feel you work isn’t “good enough” and put words on the paper.
Life Drawing – Model Drawing
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Sarin Tatroe (Sariochan Arts)
Live model drawing doesn’t have to be boring! Come hone your skills in a session of timed poses with music and costuming. Drop ins welcome!
Losing Lara Performance
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, 12th Floor Airship
Losing Lara
Come get lost in listening to wizard rock (Harry Potter), Firefly, and other nerdy themed music performed by Losing Lara!
Magical Abilities in Fiction: Fact or Fiction
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Wind River A – Art
Lou J Berger, Mason J. Torall, Van Aaron Hughes
A discussion concerning various fantasy fiction, and the reality of the magical abilities presented, such as crystal ball readings, tarot, and magical wands.
Make a Fairy Garden
Sunday, 11:00 AM-12:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
The fairies need your help spreading more plants around our neighborhoods. Come and create your own Fairy Garden you can take home.
Making Heroines Even Better
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Jessica Lauren Gabarron, Catherine Winters, Jodi M Franklin, Melissa Koons
Mad Max: Fury Road, the new Ghostbusters, and recent Star Wars films. Strong heroines are appearing in our current media; what did they get right and how they could have been done better?
Marketing 101: For artists at conventions
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Peri Charlifu
This basic level marketing class is geared toward beginning and intermediate artists wishing to break into the convention art market.
Mechanical Analog Calculators
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Richard Blake
Before the digital era, scientists and engineers did a great deal of math in their heads and on paper… but not all. Discussion of the vintage calculating instruments from the 15th to 20th centuries.
Merging Steampunk and Fantasy
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Lou J Berger, A.M. Burns, J.A. Campbell, Kal Spriggs
A discussion on laying the ground work for creating a believable world using the elements of both Steampunk and fantasy.
Metalworking – How To
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Adam McLaughlin
An explanation of how to work with metal to create fandom art. No hands on, but there will be examples of the artists’ work.
Metaphysics in Fandom
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Melissa Koons
Panelists demonstrate and/or discuss metaphysical systems used in storytelling, such as tarot, palm reading, psychics and mediums.
Milton Davis Autograph Session
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Atrium
Milton J Davis
Milton Davis will be available at his table in the Atrium. Stop by to purchase books from our awesome Author Guest of Honor!
Mixed Genre Authors and Writing
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Richard E. Friesen, Brett J Baker, J.D. Harpley
What are the ups and downs of being a cross-genre author? Easy for some, difficult for others; a discussion about managing taking your brain in many directions at once.
Modesty in Cosplay
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Dame Ursula Whiffenpott, Amy Griswold, Tonya L. De Marco
Cosplay doesn’t have to mean showing a lot of skin. A discussion on ways to modify your costumes for your comfort level.
Moments Only an Artist Can Relate To
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Peri Charlifu, Adam McLaughlin, Aria Fawn, Sarin Tatroe (Sariochan Arts)
We have all had moments that only an artist can really relate to, let’s air some dirty laundry for an audience and talk about the worst, the best and the weirdest things that have happened to us as artists.
Morning Meditation
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Wind Star B – Various
Enjoy some time to quiet the thoughts from the night before and enjoy some gentle meditation, contemplation, and reflection.
Musical performance by Hal Weeks
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, 12th Floor Airship
Hal Weeks, Autoharp
Musical performance by Hal Weeks, Autoharpist and Native American Flute player
Musical performance by Stace Johnson
Friday, 5:30 PM-6:20 PM, Main Events
Stace Johnson
An hour of music performed by Stace Johnson
Musical performance by Stace Johnson
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Stace Johnson
Second musical performance by Stace Johnson
Mustache and Beard Competition
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, 12th Floor Airship
Prof. Artimus G Smithmage
Bring on your best beard and mustache style (or simulation if you don’t want to compete with your current facial hair). Open to all genders and growing abilities! Winners awarded in Best Grown and Best Created categories!
Neo-Victorian Etymology
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Olivia Wylie
An examination of how word meanings and collouialisms developed in the Victorian era and how they have evolved through social use.
New Authors Anonymous
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
J.D. Harrison, Jessica Lauren Gabarron, Stace Johnson
Talk about what it’s like as a newbie in this crazy publishing world.
Non-Traditional Materials for Creating Art
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Tonya L. De Marco, Ana MacDonell
Using PVC to make a dragon? Harvesting grape leaves to work as an armature for a sculpture? Using soot from the BBQ to make ink? Many of us use non-traditional materials to make art, come and share the secrets with us all!
Ohming: Breathing Exercises
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Atrium
Cori
Ohms: Meditation for more than just electricians. 10 minute breathing techniques for relaxation and costume competition prep.
Open Costume Repair
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Lara Beckwith
Need to make some repairs? Come by during this open time to use the sewing machines and get advice from our sitting experts.
Open Drop-In Time
Saturday, 6:00 PM-9:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Lara Beckwith, Nancy Parker
The shop is open! Sewing machines, fabric, and advice are all available. Drop in for repairs, chat, or general “stitch and bitch”.
Open Filking
Saturday, 8:00 PM-12:00 AM, Wind Star B – Various
Seth Phillips
Folk music, often with a sci fi or fantasy theme, played casually in a round-robin style. Bring an instrument if you have one, your voice as well, and a good sense of humor doesn’t hurt.
Opening Ceremonies
Friday, 6:30 PM-6:50 PM, Main Events
Nikki Ebright, Kitty Krell, Milton J Davis, Tawny Fritz
Organizer Nikki Ebright welcomes everyone and introduces this year’s Guests of Honor.
Overcoming Creative Fears
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind River A – Art
Jan Scott-Frazier, Sarin Tatroe (Sariochan Arts)
There is a time when you have to introduce your work to the world; learn to overcome a common, harrowing experience for every creative person out there.
Ow, My Spleen!
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Jessica Lauren Gabarron, Kal Spriggs
All too often in a book or movie, the characters undergo severe physical trauma, only for them to undertake heroic acts in the following scenes. How do you write realistic fiction where your characters are injured and face the consequences yet still manage to allow them to do what you need?
Pie Eating Contest – Victorian Style
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Pink Pitcher
A deep discussion of “proper” table manners in the victorian era, followed by the most genteel pie eating contest you’ve ever seen. Audience participation required.
Pitfalls of the Strong Female Character
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Amalie Howard, J.D. Harrison, Veronica R. Calisto
There is more to feminine strength than the assassin and the Chosen One built to kill all of the vampires. Explore tropes and stereotypes of the way strength and females intertwine in our stories and media.
Planning and Structure – They’re Important
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Wind Star A – Literary
J.D. Harpley, Ian Thomas Healy
Pantsing (the art of pulling a story out of your bum) can be exciting, but usually ends in longer production time, re-writes, and indecision. Let us discuss how even simple plans can be instrumental in producing higher quality stories, faster.
Polyamory and Non-monogamy in Fiction
Saturday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Catherine Winters, Shullamuth Ballinger, Stace Johnson
Panelists will review fiction throughout the decades with non-monogamous and polyamorous themes and how they have influenced current trends.
Proto-Steampunk Literature
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Melanie Unruh
The work of Moorcock, Powers, Jeeter, and Blaylock, and how they formed the genre.
Pursuing Your Creative Dreams
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Mason J. Torall, Aria Fawn, Brenna, Tawny Fritz
How to completely go for your dreams despite all of the good advice that you’ll be given to stop you. Beyond the pit falls and dealing with discouragement, a focus on how to put your dreams into action and how to stay happy when all seems bleak.
Putting the Punk in Steampunk
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Wind River B – Costuming
Melanie Unruh
Manifest the punk sociology into the material culture, art and artifacts of our countercultural community.
Q&A With Kitty Krell
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:55 PM, Main Events
Kitty Krell
A chance to ask those burning questions of our Costuming Guest of Honor. She’ll be happy to help you learn all about the wonderful benefits of corset wearing, and maybe share some tips about her creations.
Q&A with Milton Davis
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:55 PM, Main Events
Milton J Davis
A chance to ask those burning questions of our Author Guest of Honor.
Q&A with Tawny Fritz
Sunday, 2:00 PM-2:55 PM, Main Events
Tawny Fritz
A chance to ask those burning questions of our Artist Guest of Honor.
Quick and Simple: Props & Accessories
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind River B – Costuming
Ian Brazee-Cannon, Charles Orndorff, Erin Card
No need to spend a lot of time and money to make a prop, gadget, or other accessory for your costume. Let’s discuss some fun ideas that have worked for us. Learn from the panelists and bring your successes (and failures) too.
QUILTBAG Characters and Stories
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
J.D. Harpley, Dylan Edwards, J.L. Forrest, Paul Lell
How to write LGBTQIA+ characters with diverse genders and sexualities that readers and viewers can connect with.
Raiders of the Lost Art: Introduction to Hat Making
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Victoria Regina
Have you always been interested in how hats are really made but don’t know where to start? Milliner & instructor, Victoria Regina, will reveal the traditional & nontraditional tools & techniques of the craft. See how to go from a hobbyist to hatter.
Rapping Ghosts and Secret Societies – Occultism in the Victorian Era
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Vivian Caethe, Amber Peter, Andarta, Kira Cook
The Victorian era saw a blossoming of occultism even as the Industrial Revolution grew to full steam. A look at the history of many occult practices in the Victorian era and how they influenced modern Pagan beliefs.
Readings by Milton Davis
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, 12th Floor Airship
Milton J Davis
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to get to hear our Author Guest of Honor Milton Davis reading from his various works.
Real and Weird Victorian Inventions
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Kerry Major
It was a time of giant leaps in science, technology, and imagination. Learn some of the real yet wacky things the Victorians created.
Reap what you Sew
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Atrium
Cori
Or Better Cosplay Design through Self-Care. Simple warm-up exercises for the most common costume-construction activities.
Refinery of Victorian Tea
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Kira Cook, Victoria Regina
Victorian tea time and table setting was a dance and an art, from the flatware placement, choice of linens, and display of the delicacies. A conversation of proper tea etiquette and typical food served.
Relationship, Sexual, and Gender Diversity in Fandoms
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Vivian Caethe, Catherine Winters, Kim Klimek, Veronica R. Calisto
Sometimes representation of diverse relationships styles, sexualities, and genders is overt in fandoms, and other times they are fan created. What are some examples of non-cis/heterosexual/monoamorous relationships we see and are these characters authentic and fairly represented?
Religion in Fiction Outside the Western World
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Stant Litore, Amalie Howard, Van Aaron Hughes
What if the galaxy was explored by Islamic researchers? What if the next epic fantasy you read is set in Aztec Mexico? Speculative fiction is our chance to explore the cosmos through very different eyes than our own — and not just extraterrestrial or elven ones!
Resin Casting
Friday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Charles Orndorff, Tauni Orndorff
This discussion and demonstration will show how to use a silicone mold to cast resin and provide techniques for adding color, and decoration to the finished product.
Resin Casting
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Charles Orndorff, Tauni Orndorff
This discussion and demonstration will show how to use a silicone mold to cast resin and provide techniques for adding color, and decoration to the finished product.
RPG World-Building
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Brett J Baker, Bill , Mike Cervantes, Paul Lell
Covering everything from how to craft your own gameworld and where your player characters fit into it, to the dos and don’ts of world-building to common tropes that appear across genres.
Ruins and Relics: The Bones of Your Imaginary World
Sunday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Stant Litore
What ruins and relics of the past exist in your fictional world? What do your characters carry with them on their journeys? How does the past invade and shape the present? Come find out!
Sand Casting: Ancient Techniques
Saturday, 11:00 PM-11:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Adam McLaughlin
A walk through of the general steps for sand casting a simple object like a coin or pendant (minus the actual melting and pouring of the metal).
Science Fiction vs Science Fact
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
A.M. Burns, Dana Bell, J.A. Campbell, Thomas A Fowler
Discussion of how sci-fi influences real world tech; and how real world tech is incorporated into fiction; and how to keep your science and tech plausible, or at least believable.
Self-Publishing 101
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind Star B – Various
Carol Van Natta
Award-winning independent author takes you through the steps to publish your story, from “The End” to “Look, Ma, it’s my book!”. Topics include the product (the book), the mechanics, the venues, and marketing.
Self/Indie Publishing (Print and eBook)
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Carol Hightshoe, Carol Van Natta, Guy Anthony De Marco, James A. Hunter
So many options! How do authors self publish and/or work with independent presses? How to make it happen, in physical form and electronically
Serger 101
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Nancy Parker
Some love them, some hate them, but serger machines are a unique breed. Come learn the basics of how to use and where they excel.
Sewable Electronics for Accessories and Apparel
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Main Events
Angela Sheehan, Paul Lell
Learn how to incorporate electronics directly into your costumes or fabric props using conductive thread and LilyPad sewable hardware. Get an overview on how to add lights, sound, and other interactive elements to your existing costumes, including hands-on experience crafting a light-up badge to take home using sewable electronics (first come, first serve, limited quantity available).
Sexy in Science Fiction
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Amalie Howard, Catherine Winters
Love and sex are essential elements in any story. How these scenes in popular Science Fiction & Fantasy can help you create more robust stories with fully fleshed-out characters.
Shiny Garden and SG Events
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Nikki Ebright, Billy Van Ark, Brian Ziman, Sandra Wheeler
Come find out more about Shiny Garden and their events: WhimsyCon (steampunk and costuming), HexaCon (tabletop gaming), and Westercon, a traveling convention that we are hosting at the Myths and Legends Convention.
Silicone Molding
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Charles Orndorff, Tauni Orndorff
This discussion and demonstration will address a one part easy silicone mold. Providing tips and techniques for getting a successful mold.
Silicone Molding
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Atrium-Demo Area
Charles Orndorff, Tauni Orndorff
This discussion and demonstration will address a one part easy silicone mold. Providing tips and techniques for making successful mold.
Six Figure Author: Five Keys to Success as an Indie Author
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
James A. Hunter
The digital book revolution has drastically changed the publishing industry, offering new ways to publish books, find readers, and even make a lucrative living. Come learn about indie publishing and the five keys to success in this new landscape!
So Charming, Not Creepy
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Sandra Wheeler, Stace Johnson
Make your convention experience better by learning how to approach people without being a creep. A discussion on etiquette, consent, common sense and enjoying fandom with respect. Audience is encouraged to share examples of good and bad interactions.
Social Consciousness and Steampunk
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Mario Acevedo
Discussion on how the community incorporates themes of equality, social responsibility, and inclusion.
Splendid Teapot Racing
Friday, 8:00 PM-9:50 PM, 12th Floor Airship
Amy Griswold
Create your radio-controlled teapot to race against the clock through the obstacle course! Imported from 2014 Steampunk NZ Festival and hosted by DVSS. See http://www.whimsycon.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/2018_Splendid_Teapot_Racing_v2.1.pdf for the official rules!
Steam Feud
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Ana MacDonell
A Steampunk twist on the old Family Feud game. Gather your Steam crew, and get your brain in gear, because the game is afoot.
STEAM Kids Experiments
Friday, 7:00 PM-9:00 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Children of all ages are welcome to come see and make experiments that involve the STEAM principles – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math.
STEAM Kids Experiments
Saturday, 5:00 PM-6:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Children of all ages are welcome to come see and make experiments that involve the STEAM principles – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math.
STEAM Kids Experiments
Sunday, 2:00 PM-3:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Children of all ages are welcome to come see and make experiments that involve the STEAM principles – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math.
Steampunk 101
Friday, 5:30 PM-6:20 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Voniè Stillson aka Lady Vo, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Chaz Kemp, Kevin Frost, Tonya L. De Marco
Steampunk crosses the worlds of literature, costuming, crafting, movies, and more. But what is Steampunk? Where did it start? Why is it called that? A look at the history of the genre and the rising popularity over the past decade.
Steampunk and Historical Warfare I: Land
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Wind Star B – Various
Calvin Studzinski
Steampunk may be a form of speculative fiction, but it is rooted in historical reality. From the muzzle-loading musket to the automatic rifle, learn about the evolution of tactics and technology in land warfare from 1700 through 1918, including 18th-century grenades, flintlock repeating rifles, and the introduction of machine guns and their effect on the battlefield.
Steampunk and Historical Warfare II: Sea
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Calvin Studzinski
Steampunk may be a form of speculative fiction, but it is rooted in historical reality. From the 100-gun ship of the line mighty dreadnought, learn about the evolution of tactics and technology in naval warfare from 1700 through 1918, including the Line of Battle, the introduction of steam power and iron armor, and the final hurrah of the battleship era.
Steampunk and Historical Warfare III: Air
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Calvin Studzinski
Steampunk may be a form of speculative fiction, but it is rooted in historical reality. From artillery spotting balloons to anti-submarine zeppelins, learn about the evolution of tactics and technology in Aerial warfare from 1794 through 1963, including the French Aerostatic Corps, the introduction of aerial bombardment, and the last uses of patrol airships.
Steampunk and Post Apocalypse
Friday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Kevin Frost, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Calvin Studzinski, Sam Knight
Steampunk is a versatile topic that some writers place in a post-apocalypse scenario. How are steampunk and post-apocalypse genres similar and how are they different?
Steampunk in Fiction Outside British Empire
Saturday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Ana MacDonell, Kerry Major, Kevin Frost
The sun didn’t set on the British Empire during Victoria’s time and there are many examples of steampunk in other countries.
Steampunk Poetry Slam
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Stace Johnson, Lady Z, Voniè Stillson aka Lady Vo
Create poetry on demand to prompts given by the moderators and audience.
Steampunk Writing Workshop: A Primer for Beginners
Saturday, 3:00 PM-5:00 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Richard Blake
Come explore Steampunk’s always fantastic, often humorous, sometimes bizarre, and occasionally disturbing world of retro-futurism, speculative science fiction, and the Victorian era. Explore what it takes to become a paleo-futurist writer, how to approach the ‘punk’ aspect of Steampunk, and engage in character and worldbuilding labs. View my program at: http://www.stempunked.com/steampunk-writing-workshop/
Sticking the Landing: How to End Your
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Aaron Michael Ritchey, Richard E. Friesen, Scott Beckman, Van Aaron Hughes
Why do some endings leave a lasting impact and others just fizzle?
Stop Waiting for the Muse
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
J.L. Forrest, Shullamuth Ballinger, Traci Cartwright, Van Aaron Hughes
You don’t need inspiration to start writing. Invite the muse, don’t wait for them to magically appear. How to get words on the page and love them.
Story in an Hour
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Lou J Berger, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Traci Cartwright
Panelists and the audience will collaborate in a one-hour fun adventure, outlining a new story together.
Stretches for “Gearheads”
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Atrium
Cori
Enhancing your Mechanics through Biomechanics. Stretches for medium and heavy costumes.
Stuffed Animal Creation
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Thunderpass – Interactive, Sewing
Brenna
Come decorate, stuff and finish fun stuffed animals. You take your new friend with you! If you can tie a knot, you can make an animal! $15 materials fee per person or special WhimsyCon rate of 2 participants for $25 (pay together).
Subject Matter; Does it Matter?
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Sarin Tatroe (Sariochan Arts)
Can you be a great artist without using a definitive subject matter? Is the subject matter the driving force behind art, or is it just one of the many elements that make a great piece?
Sympathetic Villains
Friday, 10:00 PM-10:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Mike Cervantes, Ian Thomas Healy , Jodi M Franklin
The old Master was patently evil, a nasty curmudgeon with nefarious design while the new Masters were made into sympathetic villains of galactic proportions. We root for Doctor Horrible over the good guy Captain Hammer. How does this change our view of villains?
Tea Dueling
Sunday, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM, 12th Floor Airship
Melanie Unruh
Hoist your biscuits and prepare to duel in the spirited Sudden Death Tea Dueling Tournament. Hosted by the Denver Victorian and Steampunk Society (DVSS).
Tea Time of the Soul
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Wind River A – Art
Jan Scott-Frazier, Shullamuth Ballinger
Start your day off with some gentle relaxation and a meditative atmosphere.
Technology and Fashion
Saturday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Pink Pitcher
Looking at the ways that production technologies influenced fashion, and fashion drove inventors to produce new technologies, in the early modern period. Looking at a time line of industrial advancements in cloth and notion production.
The Language Of Flowers: Secrets, Stories and Scandal In Bloom
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Olivia Wylie
Scandal is growing in your own back garden. An exploration of the books of Flower Language printed 1850-1889, their writers, their origins and their popularity in different parts of the world. Learn the history of the code daring Victorian ladies and gents used to pass messages in posies and bouquets.
The Lives and Times of Victorian Occultists
Sunday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Vivian Caethe, Amber Peter, Kira Cook
The Victorian era was a time of great cultural transformation that changed how Westerners viewed the world and the afterlife. Ghosts became less frightening and secret societies proliferated. We had gained control of the material world and now turned out gaze to the spiritual. Learn how the Victorian era influenced our views of the supernatural as well as the way we view the spiritual.
The Muse and the Devil
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
Peri Charlifu, Sarin Tatroe (Sariochan Arts)
Where do artists get their inspiration and ideas, why does it seem that some of our best ideas don’t sell? How does inspiration hit and how do you ignite that spark?
The Parsimonious Steampunk
Friday, 9:00 PM-9:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Melanie Unruh, Lara Beckwith
Rummaging, thrifting, and modding your way to an authentic Steampunk kit.
The Price of Magic
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Carol Hightshoe, Carolyn Kay, Scott Beckman
For magic to mean anything, it has to cost something. What happens when the price must be paid? What happens if there is no cost for magic?
The Spirit of the Steampunk Era
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Amber Peter, Jodi M Franklin, Prof. Artimus G Smithmage
Absinthe rose and fell in the Belle Epoch, so it is naturally the favored refreshment of Steampunks. Discussions for writers and imbibers.
Thomas the Tank Engine – Train Building
Saturday, 11:00 AM-12:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Thomas is in need of your help to build new tracks around Sodor. Children of all ages are welcome to come and play with Thomas and his friends.
Thomas the Tank Engine – Train Building
Friday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Thomas is in need of your help to build new tracks around Sodor. Children of all ages are welcome to come and play with Thomas and his friends.
Thomas the Tank Engine – Train Building
Sunday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Thomas is in need of your help to build new tracks around Sodor. Children of all ages are welcome to come and play with Thomas and his friends.
Too Many Gears and Goggles!
Saturday, 4:00 PM-4:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Mario Acevedo, Jodi M Franklin, Prof. Artimus G Smithmage
Expanding the Steampunk trope beyond Neo-Victorian fantasy.
Top Hat and Bowler Making Workshop
Friday, 5:00 PM-6:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Don’t have your own hat? Come and make your own Steampunk top hat or bowler.
Top Hat and Bowler Making Workshop
Saturday, 9:00 AM-10:50 AM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Don’t have your own hat? Come and make your own Steampunk top hat or bowler.
Top Hat and Bowler Making Workshop
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Don’t have your own hat? Come and make your own Steampunk top hat or bowler.
Trivia for Geeks!
Saturday, 9:00 PM-10:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Peri Charlifu
Join Peri Charlifu and Lee Moody as they put you through the ringer, testing your knowledge of various fandoms in all its various forms. Compete with other self-proclaimed fans for prizes and the chance to show them who the real fan is! As seen at MileHiCon and COSine!
Victorian Fairy tales
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Main Events
Liam Bootzin
Beautiful yet now sad and surreal, the Victorian era had an effect on the traditional fairy tale. Popular storyteller Liam Bootzin offers 3 examples of the best in Victorian fairy tales by Dickens, Wilde and Anderson.
Victorian Textiles
Saturday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Janet Smith, Lara Beckwith
Looking at the ways that production technologies influenced fashion, and fashion drove inventors to produce new technologies, in the early modern period. Looking at a time line of industrial advancements in cloth and notion production.
VIP Speed Dating
Friday, 7:00 PM-7:50 PM, Main Events
Nikki Ebright, Kitty Krell, Milton J Davis, Nissa LaFete, Tawny Fritz, Tomas O’Dreams
A FREE gathering of fans where the VIP and special guests visit YOUR tables just to meet YOU. Meet Milton Davis, Kitty Krell, Tawny Fritz, and many more!
We Don’t Need No Stinkin’ Mentors!
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Lou J Berger, Aaron Michael Ritchey, Traci Cartwright
The hero’s journey often includes a mentor. A magical, older, wiser guardian and guide until our young hero could master his own skills and destiny. Recent storytelling has shifted away– the mentor has failed their charges or doesn’t exist. Luke Skywalker, Dumbledore, Ready Player One, and Fault in Our Stars; what’s different about the hero’s journey and why we’ve killed off our elders.
We Have Always Fought
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Kerry Major
Exploring the hidden history of Women and Minorities in Combat. Throughout history, 20-40% of the combatants have been female. Come find out why you never heard of this until now, or if you have, come find out MORE!
We Suffer for Your Art
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Wind River A – Art
A.M. Burns, Adam McLaughlin, Chaz Kemp
This one’s for the artists’ significant others. Do you suffer for their art, do you run naked in the glory of their art, or do you just shake your head in wonder? Come and talk about the challenges and rewards of being in a relationship with an artist!
What-if Writer’s Sandbox
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Wind Star B – Various
Kerry Major, Guy Anthony De Marco
Historical Watersheds and “What-if” questions are one of the biggest jumping off points for a good Historical Fiction story. Come talk with writers and historians, and get some context for your latest idea, or maybe get some new ones!
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
Saturday, 11:00 PM-12:00 AM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Kerry Major
Now with 30% more Whiskey! Our late-night History panel that always tends to turn into a round table, where we explore dark, comedic, and hidden history (preferably all three!) Not always kid-friendly for language and content.
Who stole the cookies?
Saturday, 3:00 PM-4:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
Put on your thinking caps and come join Sherlock Holmes solve the mystery of who stole the afternoon snacks. Snacks will be available once the culprit is caught.
Wish You Were There: Worldbuilding
Saturday, 2:00 PM-2:50 PM, Main Events
Stant Litore, Lou J Berger, Milton J Davis, Traci Cartwright
There are two kinds of worldbuilding: the kind that describes the story’s world, and the kind that makes you wish you were there. Authors discuss the difference, and offer tips and techniques to help you bring your own fictional worlds to life.
Women in the Empire
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Kim Klimek
Women and their lived lives in the Victorian Age, discussing both women in the British Isle and women in the Colonized spaces (both British and Native).
Women in the Victorian Occult
Saturday, 8:00 PM-8:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Vivian Caethe, Amber Peter, Kira Cook
Prior to the Victorian era, men who practiced magic were alchemists, while women who practiced magic were witches. With the rise of the Victorians, women found a new place in the Spiritualist movement, transforming the danger of witchcraft into the mystery of Spiritualism. Discover how women’s voices shaped the occult movement in the Victorian era and their lasting impact on our understanding today.
Women Warriors
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Wind River B – Costuming
Betsy Dornbusch, Stant Litore
Creating bold fighting women who lead, inspire, and have mastered weapons.
Wonderland Unbirthday Tea Party
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Bristlecone – Children
Michelle Reeves
If it’s your Unbirthday than come join the Wonderland characters for a special tea party. Children of all ages are invited to come.
Write Worlds Your Readers Won’t Forget
Saturday, 5:00 PM-5:50 PM, Highlands Amphitheater – Various
Stant Litore
Like a god, you get to invent a world. Maybe several. But how do you make these worlds the reader doesn’t want to leave, worlds the reader will never forget?
Writing and Making Multicultural and Crosscultural Characters
Sunday, 12:00 PM-12:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Mario Acevedo
Multiculturalism and Crossculturalism for Steampunk Writers and Makers – taking on the ticklish issues of cultural exposure and sharing, and cultural appropriation and exploitation.
Writing Animals in Fiction
Sunday, 1:00 PM-1:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Jodi M Franklin, A.M. Burns, Dana Bell, J.D. Harrison
How far can a horse really travel? Does a rider really guide a horse with her knees? Do dogs and cats think like us, or do they even like us? How do we portray animal movement and behavior realistically in fiction?
Writing Combat in Science Fiction & Fantasy
Sunday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Main Events
Amalie Howard, J.D. Harpley, James A. Hunter, Milton J Davis, Sam Knight
What works (and doesn’t) in books and media. A friendly discussion about violence, bloodshed, what makes a fight scene realistic, and examples of combat done right.
Writing Historically – Victorian
Saturday, 10:00 AM-10:50 AM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Olivia Wylie, Terry Kroenung
We weren’t there, but we want to make our readers feel like they are. How do we manage that to accurately and adequately set the stage? Learn how much research is necessary, how much is too much, and where to go to get the best sources.
Writing Jobs That Aren’t Writing Fiction
Saturday, 11:00 AM-11:50 AM, Wind Star B – Various
Sandra Wheeler, Guy Anthony De Marco, Thomas A Fowler
Learn about growing fields of writing outside of writing fiction that will grow your skills as a writer and pay above minimum wage.
Writing Steampunk
Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:50 AM, Mesa Verde B – Victorian
Kal Spriggs, Terry Kroenung, Tonya L. De Marco
The Steampunk genre doesn’t have well defined edges or boundaries. How do you write a Steampunk aka sci-fi, fantasy, punk, futuristic, Victorian story?
Your Steampunk Story
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Mesa Verde A – Steampunk
Voniè Stillson aka Lady Vo, Dame Ursula Whiffenpott, Prof. Artimus G Smithmage
Create your Steampunk persona from scratch, starting with archetypes that communicate volumes about your character.
Your Universe off the page
Saturday, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM, Mesa Verde C – Maker
Mike Cervantes
Translating what you originally wrote as a short story author to a wild world of content, including videos for youtube, writing tabletop RPGs, and a primer on bringing your work to business.
Youth in Fandom Culture
Saturday, 6:00 PM-6:50 PM, Wind Star A – Literary
Losing Lara
A discussion of young adults joining the ranks of fans of science fiction and fantasy; what’s it like to be on the younger end, and what can we do to encourage more people to find us.