Meet Rome Farrar | Cosplayer & Drag Royalty

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rome Farrar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rome, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I’ve learned a work life balance is extremely important. I used to think it would be easier and better if I accepted every work offer or commission I got because that equals more income. However I found myself getting exhausted easily and burnt out and losing the joy in what I did. It would be irritating when I would do everything possible to finish a project and not have any time to enjoy the result. I had to change because I love what I do and I want to continue loving making things for others, but that requires I take breaks and sometimes turn down offers that may be out of my expertise range. Changing my way of thinking has been essential to creating a better balance, and knowing my own limitations. After becoming more aware of my needs, I am much happier and more confident in my work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I believe what I bring to the table of the art world is my ability to connect. I have been through lots of struggles that have influenced my art and strengthened my passion for what I do. Whether performing on stage in drag or helping a friend style a cosplay wig, I make connections with others. I gain friends and that really means the world to me. One of the biggest challenges is really the political climate of where I live. I was once scared to be artistic and expressive. I’ve never been so unhappy like that and I never want to be like that again. I want people to know I’ve been there in the dark space where my mental health is uncontrolled and I feel so alone. Then people like me encouraged me to be unapologetically myself. I’ve never looked back because I am happier being an artist. I’m most proud of finally making my own costumes and giving other plus size people the opportunity to get what they’d like as well. I make the sizes that cosplay and outfit companies don’t account for because everyone deserves to feel pretty in an outfit they want.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d definitely have to take them to the World’s Fair Park in Knoxville, TN. It’s gorgeous and fun all time of the year. Then downtown is a short walk where the Market Square is. They have festivals down there and cute antique shops and architecture. It’s got a space for performances and an ice rink in the winter. There’s a few arcades nearby that I love to hang out at. Then Big Ed’s Pizza in Oak Ridge is amazing and it’s been there for years, I always recommend my friends go there. Nearby is a museum that I frequent as well and a park.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My close friends are my support system and they deserve all the recognition in the world. I’ve dealt with mental health issues for years and how they affect my work. I’ve been happier within the past few years and more open with my struggles because of them. Specifically Wes, Midnight, Matt, Koi, Rowan, Tina, Nick, and Lexi. They have always pushed me to do my best and are there for me when I feel the pressure and I want to quit. They inspire me and have truly helped me become the person I am today. I don’t have to deal with my struggles alone anymore, and that is the greatest gift they could give me. I’m comfortable with who I am and what I do because of their unwavering support. I would not be able to get this far without them.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transifiied?igsh=MWIxcmV1eDJxYTdvZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ven.farrar?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Rowan, Lexi