Airship Ambassador's Page

Hi Kyrephex!

Thank you for the kind comments on my wall. It's great to meet you here. Your question about what to do with the disparity of wealth in the steampunk community is intriguing. A lot of the time artisans have to sell their work for relatively high prices because of the amount of work that goes into them, making them unaffordable to many people in the steampunk community. As you pointed out, some people have no time or skills to create steampunk outfits or props, and don't have the money to buy them. This creates an unfortunate hierarchy based on time, skill and money that I'm sure many of us would rather didn't exist.

Perhaps we need some sort of charity system? With a close-knit community people know each other quite well, so the 'haves' would be aware of the 'have-nots'. Maybe once per year the 'haves' should redistribute some of their stuff, maybe things they don't need any more, or stuff they bought and never got around to using or wearing. A huge steampunk swap-meet day focusing on equipping those who cannot equip themselves! This would also help people who are new to the scene to acquire basic kits and wardrobes, and when they 'upgrade' they can pass the items on to a new lot of recruits.

Or maybe a steampunk clothing and prop library, where people can borrow out items when they need them. Items from the library could be taken to steampunk events for people who feel a little underdressed for the occasion.

Or perhaps we need to challenge the current aesthetics of steampunk culture. Maybe look for minimalist steampunk, or tramp steampunk, to make it easier for those with limited wardrobes or bank balances to outfit themselves.

I really like your Airship Ambassador blog, by the way. It's a very inspiring read!

Best regards,
Alice