The Creative Mind Behind RyroStudios: An Exclusive CCM Interview

Step into the dynamic realm of 3D design and cosplay innovation as we introduce James Davis, the visionary mind behind @Ryrostudios. James is not just a cosplayer, but the driving force behind a dynamic 3D design company that crafts, programs, prints, and paints awe-inspiring 3D props. His journey from behind-the-scenes architect to spotlight-stealing cosplayer is nothing short of extraordinary. Join us as we delve into James's remarkable journey and explore the thrilling world of cosplay in this exclusive CCM interview.

James, it's a pleasure to have you with us! To kick things off, could you introduce yourself to our readers and share how you first ventured into the world of cosplay and 3D design?

Hello there! I’m James owner of RyRostudios. I’ve always been involved with art since I was little and would always create my own Halloween costumes. I feel as if that was my gateway to jump into the cosplay world basically 365 days of the year and not just be subjected to Halloween! 

I went to college and received my BFA degree in Fine Arts. So incorporating my art experience with cosplay had always been my main focal point since starting out. 

James, your transition from behind-the-scenes 3D designer to spotlight-stealing cosplayer is fascinating. Can you share more about the pivotal moment when you decided to step into the spotlight, and what motivated you to showcase your own creations to the world?

Once I noticed my artwork started grabbing people’s attention is when I decided to pull the curtains back. What better way to promote a product than to wear it yourself? So that was my initial drive with wearing cosplays to events/cons. Then it became a habit to continue doing, so going bigger and better each time I step onto the con floor. 

The Iron Zombie suit you created, blending Mysterio's illusion with Iron Man's armor, is truly groundbreaking. Can you share more about the origins of this suit? What what was the creative process like bringing it to life?

To be honest in the midst of all these great Iron Man cosplays already existing I wanted to separate myself from the pack. I’ve always enjoyed reading into Marvel Zombies and thought it would be a unique experience to take on my own version that compliments a lot of references from the films and comics. 

You’re also no stranger to Cosplay Contests at events, is that right? Can you tell us about one of your favorite moments or memories from competing in these contests, and what winning some of those events has meant to you as a cosplayer and 3D designer?

Some of my favorite moments come from being able to compete and network with like-minded cosplayers. There have been contests where I’ve won Best in Show and others where I don’t even place. Which, is never a bad thing, but I use it as a tool on how essentially I’m being graded by the judges. I love constructive criticism and I use that to help me get better in this space. 

Your work has been featured at prestigious events like LVLUP, DragonCon, and GalaxyCon. Can you share a memorable experience or interaction you've had with fans or fellow cosplayers at one of these events that has stuck with you?

I recently got back from Vegas for I was there for LVLUP Expo. This truly is the first con where I found myself as a micro celebrity in cosplay for I had people calling me more by my handle (RyRo) than my own personal name. What has, and will always, stick to me is the engagement with the kids. I’ll go out of my way to produce stickers prior to an event so I’m able to hand them out for any kids I take photos with. I have two little ones myself so once they’re older I plan on incorporating them more with my cosplays! 

Your dedication to perfecting your craft is evident in your Miguel Ohara Spiderman Advanced White 2099 suit. What motivated you to create a V2 version, and what improvements did you make to take it to the next level?

I felt as if I rushed the V1 (Thanks to con crunching) and wanted to truly resemble all the references from the game, comics, and movies. I made the overall esthetic more accurate by rescaling every part to fit my body better, more accurate paint job, and paid attention to all the little details I missed the first time around. 

It seems like you are constantly learning and expanding your skills. What are some of the most valuable lessons you've learned along the way, and how have they shaped your approach to cosplay and 3D design?

Always make room to grow, for there is always an opportunity to get better in this space. 

Have you picked up any tips or tricks that may be useful to share with others within the community?

Yes, SOY SAUCE! I use it as a weathering method with my builds. Is it practical? Kinda but is it tasty? ABSOLUTELY! 

Building 3D props requires a unique blend of creativity and technical skill. Can you walk us through your process from concept to creation for one of your most challenging props, and any unexpected challenges you encountered along the way?

Hands down it’s building a wearable Iron Man suit for my kids. They are constantly growing and it’s nearly impossible to get the measurements right. So my answer is still a working thesis for I have yet to finish a suit for them. 

As someone deeply involved in both cosplay and 3D design, how do you find balance between these two passions and your life outside of cosplay, and do they ever intersect in unexpected ways?

The two tend to be forever intertwining and I’ve learned to live with it. My life outside cosplay is pretty normal. Having a family and being married is constantly reminding me on what matters most. As of lately, it’s been a pretty solid balance of everything. 

Exploring new characters and builds is a key part of many cosplayers journeys. Are there any dream cosplays or characters you've been itching to bring to life, and what excites you most about tackling these future projects?

I always wanted to build a WarGreyMon (Digimon) or Cell: Second Form (DBZ). My goal is to eventually tackle these insane projects, but what gets me excited is that I know I can genuinely execute these builds accurately now than ever before. 

From Iron Man to Spider-Man, your repertoire of cosplays is diverse and impressive. Is there a particular character or design that holds a special place in your heart, and why?

Absolutely, it would have to be my first ever attempt at making an Iron Man helmet. Made of foam from old gym mats about 8 years or so ago. I still have it laying around my studio for its a constant reminder on how far I’ve come. 

Beyond cosplaying, your 3D design company offers a wide range of services. Can you tell us more about some of the most interesting or unusual projects you've worked on, and how they've challenged and inspired you creatively?

It was really when I first started I was taking on odd and one off commissions. I’ve built DBZ character figurines to Poltergust G-00. I learned quickly it is hard keep up with everything that’s going on in the community and learned to stay within a particular niche of Marvel. Marvel has motivated the most over the years and I plan on continuing to stay within this and possibly open up a few areas such as Star Wars soon. 

Looking ahead, what are some of your goals and aspirations for the future, both in terms of cosplay and your 3D design company? Any exciting projects or collaborations on the horizon that you can share with us?

My goal is to explore other social media and make a more known attempt to grow outside of Instagram. I have a few projects and collaborations cooking up as we speak. For which, I’m ecstatic to finally start building my Miles Morales Smoke and Mirrors suit from Spider-Man 2!   

How has the response and support been within your family and friends outside of cosplay when they see your projects come to life?

My friends and family are starting to come around, but I have to give all the credit to my wife. She’s been my # 1 fan from the start. Even through she doesn’t understand all of this, she never doubted me and continues to support me everyday. 

What kind of advice do you have for those who may be just getting started on their cosplay journey, or may be looking to start?

Research, Research, Research! Don’t expect to be spoon fed a lot of what’s out there. Take the time to truly understand building cosplays and props before jumping in. 

Well James, it has been an absolute pleasure delving into your world of cosplay and 3D design. Your journey from behind-the-scenes architect to spotlight-stealing cosplayer is truly inspiring, and your passion for pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology shines through in every aspect of your work. We look forward to seeing what projects your work on in the future, and hope to showcase them within the pages of our magazine.

Before we conclude, is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers? In addition, for those who are eager to follow your captivating cosplay creations and explore more of your 3D design work, where can they find you online?

Thank you for taking the time to speak with me and for anyone reading this. You are enough, at the end of the day we’re all just a bunch of nerds looking to have a positive experience.

Feel free to keep up to date with my content with @RyRoStudios on Instagram, Threads, YouTube, Reddit, and TikTok!