Steampunk Festival, Lincoln 2015
- Steampunk Lincoln 2015
- Nov 24, 2015
- 2 min read
Every year over the four days of August Bank Holiday, Lincoln is host to what has become the biggest Steampunk Festival in Europe. Steampunk at The Asylum is so called because initially it was held in the grounds of the old Victorian lunatic asylum. The event now takes place in the beautiful historic quarter of Lincoln's Castle Square, the Bailgate and around the cathedral area and Steep Hill. When I first encountered the Steampunk culture, I knew right away that here were kindred spirits - the fabulous costumes, which in essence are of Victorian design embellished with industrial components such as cogs, gears, pipework and goggles, and the fact that every age group takes part, as well as their liking for mild eccentricity and the spirit of good manners, civility, friendliness and fun being their adopted philosophy. Most of all though, the sheer creativity of the Steampunk culture really captured my imagination. Imagine building robots or rocket ships, creating art and music and fabulous ingenious costumes and devices so that you can display them, use them or wear them at these festivals! People from all walks of life take part and even entire families, including their dogs, dress up and join in the various activities. Part of the philosophy is reflected in their motto: 'Live Long and Be Splendid', which is also used as a general greeting to each other. If you live in the Lincoln area there is a great shop called Salamander that stocks loads of fabulous Steampunk fashions, as well as other trends, for both male and female. Kim and her mum Pat who own the shop are the most friendly and helpful people you could ever meet, and magically, with their help, you will find yourself transformed into a beautiful Steampunk person, complete with top hat and goggles. Their Facebook page can be seen here:
Salamander
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