NERDVANA 2015

By Dai Jeffcoate

Last weekend the bifrost opened on Carmarthen unleashing fans of comics, cosplay, steampunk and board games.

The gathering was Carmarthen’s second Nerdvana comic convention taking place at the Halliwell conference centre. At the entrance stood a TARDIS, along with a member of U.N.I.T keeping it safe until the Doctor finished looking around the convention, I assume. This was a good omen as there was much more on the inside. (see what I did there?)

There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout. People gathered in clusters, taking photos and admiring the breath-taking effort that had gone into the costumes of those who had chosen to dress as their favourite characters. Not forgetting those who had dressed in steampunk costumes. (Note to self: We should definitely do a piece on steampunk… I’d look amazing in goggles and top hat!).

There were a large selection of vendors selling everything from independent comics, geek themed arts and crafts to board games and more. There was also the opportunity to play a choice of board games and RPG games as well as retro gaming consoles.

In addition there were also two panels taking place, one held by the Swansea Comics Collective talking about comics. The other was by Carmarthenshire Organisation of Genteel Steampunks (COGS) talking about – yes that’s right – all things steampunk.

The main event of the convention was the cosplay contest, I’ll be honest, I have no idea how the judges were able to decide who to award prizes to. There were characters from gaming, comics, anime, movies and they were all fantastic. (I was in costume as an overworked, underpaid Geek reporter but recused myself from the contest to give everyone else a chance) In the end the winner was a Mr Daf Turner of Penllergaer, who was in costume as the Winter Soldier.

I caught up with Mr Turner to see what he had to say about his win:

“I’m shocked. I really did not expect to win anything let alone 1st place… Everyone’s costumes are brilliant… I just can’t believe I’ve won”

I think the event was a complete success and appeared to have massively expanded on last year’s Nerdvana. The convention also managed to raise £475 for the National Autistic society. As mainstream as Geek culture is today being a Geek can still be an isolating experience so it’s amazing to see so many people coming together, sharing their passions and creativity to be a positive force in the world. Here’s to Nerdvana 2016!

You can check out the Nerdvana Facebook page here.