WikiFur - User contributions [en]

Fursuit lounge

2008-10-03T03:39:31Z

Science Dog: Redirecting to Headless lounge

#REDIRECT [[Headless lounge]]

Headless lounge

2008-10-03T03:37:39Z

Science Dog:

[[Image:GR MFF2006 headless lounge fan.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Fans are typically run full-time in the lounge]]
The '''headless lounge''' (or '''fursuit lounge''') is a room set aside for [[fursuit|fursuiters]] and their [[Fursuit wrangler|handlers]] at a [[convention]] or other event. Given that fursuits often become uncomfortably warm, the headless lounge is the place for fursuiters to remove the head of their fursuit in order to cool off. Ideally it has privacy, fans, and plenty of water. Oftentimes, there will be small sewing kits available or hot glue guns for emergency repairs. Photography is heavily frowned upon, as it is considered taboo in the fursuiting community to take a picture of a suiter without their head.

It is often a quality standard for conventions to have at least one headless lounge. Other private areas such as hotel rooms, restroom stalls and certain [[room party|party rooms]] can be used for a similar purpose.

{{term-stub}}

[[Category:Convention terms]]
[[Category:Fursuit terms]]

Spore

2008-10-03T03:28:49Z

Science Dog:

[[Image:CRE Vulpine-070b07d0 ful.png|thumb|right|A furry character made using the in-game creation tools]]Spore is a game that allows players to create their own creatures and guide them though evoloution. It was produced by [[wikipedia:Maxis|Maxis]] and developed by [[wikipedia: Electronic Arts|Electronic Arts]] and was released on September 7th, 2008.

The games [[furry]] element lies within the creature creator. Because many parts have an animalistic apearance, the player can create a wide variety of [[Anthro|anthros]]. Although the game is not multiplayer, it allows created content to be exchanged between players. Furthermore, the player's creatures can be outfitted with various types of armor or [[clothing]].
* [[wikipedia:Spore (2008 video game)|Spore]] on [[Wikipedia]]

{{stub}}
[[Category:Video games]]

File:CRE Vulpine-070b07d0 ful.png

2008-10-03T03:26:08Z

Science Dog: A screenshot of Spore.

== Summary ==
A screenshot of [[Spore]].
== Licensing: ==
{{screenshot}}

Gex

2008-10-03T03:20:05Z

Science Dog:

[[Image:Gex.jpg|right|thumb]]'''Gex''' is a video game for the [[Wikipedia:Nintendo 64|Nintendo 64]], [[Wikipedia:PlayStation|PlayStation]], [[Wikipedia:Sega Saturn|Sega Saturn]], PC, and [[Wikipedia:3DO|3DO]] systems, starring a secret agent [[gecko]] named Agent Gex.

The game's trademarked character is known for his creative quotes, many of which refrence celeberties or his passion for telivision (which is a major element of the game, as Gex enters each level through a large telivision screens).

{{game-stub}}

[[category:Video games]]
[[category:Gecko characters]]

Battletoads

2008-10-03T03:13:45Z

Science Dog:

'''Battletoads''' is a [[wikipedia: beat 'em up|beat 'em up]] [[video game]] for the [[wikipedia: Nintendo Entertainment System|Nintendo Entertainment System]]. The game tells the story of 3 [[anthropomorphic]] toads named after skin deseases (one of which is kidnapped and must be rescued along with the princess). The game is know for its intense difficulty, as well as the gimic of the character's fist or boot enlarging when they attack.

[[Category:Video games]]

Battletoads

2008-10-03T03:12:56Z

Science Dog: Created page with ''''Battletoads''' is a beat 'em up video game for the Nintendo Entertainment System. The game tells th...'

Spore

2008-10-03T03:05:26Z

Science Dog:

Spore is a game that allows players to create their own creatures and guide them though evoloution. It was produced by [[wikipedia:Maxis|Maxis]] and developed by [[wikipedia: Electronic Arts|Electronic Arts]] and was released on September 7th, 2008.

The games [[furry]] element lies within the creature creator. Because many parts have an animalistic apearance, the player can create a wide variety of [[Anthro|anthros]]. Although the game is not multiplayer, it allows created content to be exchanged between players. Furthermore, the player's creatures can be outfitted with various types of armor or [[clothing]].
* [[wikipedia:Spore (2008 video game)|Spore]] on [[Wikipedia]]

{{stub}}
[[Category:Video games]]

Bally

2008-08-28T21:49:35Z

Science Dog:

[[Image:SCAN0062.JPG|right|thumb|150px|A self-made picture of Science Dog]]
[[Image:Rlsciencedog.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Science Dog at Further Confusion 2008]]
'''Science Dog''' is a [[furry]] from [[wikipedia:Morgan Hill, California|Morgan Hill, California]]. His [[fursona]] is a Golden Retriever with nerd-like atire.

Science Dog was born in [[wikipedia:Redondo Beach, California|Redondo Beach, California]] on July 3, 1991. He was raised in Arizonia and Texas for a few years before his family moved back to California. Being a self proclaimed "man of science" he enjoys playing video games and working with computers. Science Dog spent most of his childhood in isolation, having few friends and caring only about his "own world". He became much more social when he attended [[Further Confusion 2008]] after preforming entensive reaserch on [[furry fandom]]. He has recently drawn [[furry art]] but does not consiter himself a professional artist.
==Exteral links==
{{Contributor|Science Dog}}
* [http://www.myspace.com/typicalknowitall Science Dog] on [[MySpace]]
* [http://www.furaffinity.net/user/sciencedog/ Science Dog] on [[Fur Affinity]]

{{person-stub}}
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Dog characters]]
[[Category:California]]
[[Category:1991 births]]

File:SCAN0062.JPG

2008-08-28T21:33:14Z

Science Dog: A self-made drawing of Science Dog.

== Summary ==
A self-made drawing of Science Dog.
== Licensing ==
{{fursona}}

Headless lounge

2008-07-20T23:57:33Z

Science Dog:

[[Image:GR MFF2006 headless lounge fan.jpg|right|thumb|150px|Fans are typically run full-time in the lounge]]
The '''headless lounge''' is a room set aside for [[fursuit]]ers and their [[Fursuit wrangler|handlers]] at a [[convention]] or other event. Given that fursuits often become uncomfortably warm, the headless lounge is the place for fursuiters to remove the head of their fursuit in order to cool off. Ideally it has privacy, fans, and plenty of water. Oftentimes, there will be small sewing kits available or hot glue guns for emergency repairs. Photography is heavily frowned upon, as it is considered taboo in the fursuiting community to take a picture of a suiter without their head.

{{term-stub}}

[[Category:Convention terms]]
[[Category:Fursuit terms]]

Fursuit

2008-07-20T23:54:11Z

Science Dog: /* Performance */

[[Image:Autumnfox.jpg|250px|thumb|right|[[Summer Vixen]] and [[Autumnwah]] at [[Further Confusion 2006]].]]
[[Image:Autumn 012.jpg|250px|thumb|right|[[Autumn Vixen]] poses in fursuit.]]
'''Fursuits''' are [[animal]] costumes associated with the [[furry fandom]]. They range from simple [[tail]]s and [[ears]] to full costumes cooled by battery-powered fans. Similar to [[mascot]] suits, they allow the wearer to adopt another personality while in costume. Owners (also known as '''[[:Category:Fursuiters|fursuiters]]''') can spend less than one-hundred to many thousands of dollars on one fursuit, depending on the complexity of the design and on the materials used. These items are frequently sold at conventions, or online by either commission or auction. Many furry fans [[:category:Fursuit makers|make their own]] using online tutorials or advice from newsgroups.

The term ''fursuit'' (coined<ref>[[Critter Costuming]], p13 - Robert King mentions inventing the term ''fursuit'' back in 1993 for the title of an amateur costumers' mailing list about the then un-named hobby while on the way back from a conference (perhaps [[ConFurence 4]]?), in part as a pun on the word ''pursuit''</ref> in 1993 by [[Robert King]]) can also refer to animal mascot costumes in general, as opposed to [[human]] or inanimate object mascots. The act of wearing a fursuit is usually referred to as ''[[fursuiting]]''.

==Types of fursuits==
[[Image:GR FC2007 furry cats costumers.jpg|right|thumb|Fursuits are not always furry]]
The standard fursuit is a full body costume that consists of a head, forepaws (hands), hindpaws (feet) and a body with an attached tail; in some cases, the tail is connected via a belt to the wearer and hangs out through a hole in the back of the body. Many suits include special padding or undersuits to give the character its desired shape (this is especially present in larger characters or those of a particular gender.)

A ''partial suit'' or ''half-suit'' contains the above, only without the body. This allows the wearer to don ordinary clothing (or a different costume) overtop of the paws, head and tail. In partial suits, the tail is usually attached to a belt, and the arms and legs have sleeves that can go up as far as the shoulders and pelvis, respectively.

Most recently, a third type known as the ''three-quarter suit'' has been developed, which consists of a head, arms and pants made to look like the legs, tail and feet of the animal in question, which works well for characters who only wear shirts.

== Reasons for fursuiting ==
[[Image:Wgg the Gnoll.jpg|thumb|right|Wgg the Gnoll, an example of a suit that uses a mask.]]
A person who wears a fursuit generally falls into one or more of five categories.

=== Job or charity work ===
Many furry fans wear fursuits as a job or to bring attention to an event or charity. This can include mascots, though not all mascots are fursuits, nor are all mascot performers furries. Many fursuiters are hired through an agency to represent a character, while others bring their own constructions to an event instead. There are also several volunteer fursuiting groups across North America that either ask or are asked to entertain at various social functions. Some groups even set up their own charitable events or perform on the streets to passersby.

=== Conventions, parades, exhibitions ===
[[Image:FursuitDancersAC2006.jpg|right|thumb|300px|Fursuit dancers at [[Anthrocon 2006]] - video by [[BigBlueFox|BBF]]: <span class="plainlinks">[http://youtube.com/watch?v=dFKdUVsjUqY 1] [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lb82sUmiCq4&NR 2] [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aafWQJwQmZ0 3]</span> ]]
Other furries enjoy wearing their suits for parades, exhibitions, or [[convention]]s. Oftentimes these are of a personal character who they are expressing as a form of role play. The fursuiter may consider themselves to be expressing who they really are. These fursuiters may also wear their suits to small, informal meetings among furry fans in their area. Some may get permission to perform in or outside of a shop or event, while others may simply wear a suit in a major area, such as a mall. However, some public areas have no-mask laws, so individuals seeking to wear their fursuit in large, public places should check first if it's allowed before performing at that location.

=== [[Role-playing]] ===
Some LARPers create highly elaborate costumes (including fursuits) for their characters. Half-suits are usually created for role-playing games, though some LARPers use full-body suits. These suits wear elaborate clothes and costumes of their own, depending on the theme of the game.

=== Sexuality ===
A small portion of the [[furry fandom]] considers a fursuit a sexual item. A fraction of the fursuits sold are made for sexual activity. Some suits may contain elaborately designed sexual features, while some wearers simply snip a hole or two out themselves. The [[Wikipedia:music video|music video]] for "[[Beautiful]]" by [[Wikipedia:Moby|Moby]] revolves around a [[Wikipedia:Swinging|swinger]] house party where all the participants are dressed up in fursuits, though this is likely to be intended as a metaphor rather than a statement about the furry fandom.

=== Spirituality ===
Some people (usually [[Wikipedia:otherkin|otherkin]] or [[Wikipedia:therianthropy|therianthropes]]) also fursuit for reasons of expressing what they feel is their inner animal self. Most of them try to make their suits as realistic and lifelike as possible.

==Construction==
[[Image:GR MFF2005 beheaded takaza.jpg|250px|thumb|right|The head and paws of [[Takaza]].]]
Fursuits can be made out of many different materials, though most incorporate fake fur, foam, felt and varying types of plastic. Several factors can be customized during the construction process, including:

* what types and colours of fur will be used
* the space that the wearer is able to see from (mouth, eyes, neck, etc.)
* whether or not the suit contains padding
* whether or not there will be animated features (wagging tails, "follow me" eyes, etc.)
* any designs, patterns or shading (airbrushing) in the fur itself, and
* whether or not any makeup will be used.

=== Head ===
[[Image:Fursuit-head-foam.jpg|300px|thumb|right|A foam head midway through carving; the paper eyes are for reference.]]
The head is the most detailed feature of a fursuit, and is usually the most complicated because it must easily display what type of animal or creature it is; it also has the task of setting an expressional context for the character, whether it is predominately happy, angry, etc. Several methods exist for creating a fursuit head. The most prominent methods use include:

* strips of plastic canvas are sewn together, and fur and foam is attached to the outside
* a block of foam is carved into the desired shape, and fur is glued to the outside of the foam, and
* fiberglass is molded into the desired shape, and fur is attached to the outside.

Heads can range anywhere from being extremely simplistic (one colour, a sewn-in smile) to elaborate (a moving jaw, "follow-me eyes" that appear to move, hair, facial markings, etc.) Some characters have closed mouths while others are open. The facial expression of the character can range anywhere from toony to realistic, and from inviting to frightening. Some fursuiters, notably [[Timduru]], own two or more heads to sport a different expression in varying locations and circumstances.

Many heads include discrete openings in the mouth or nose to allow the flow of fresh air. Some suits contain battery-powered cooling fans alongside the openings, either to draw air in or pull hot air out. Sometimes a [[Wikipedia:Balaclava|balaclava]] or headband is used inside to separate the wearer from the head, to hide the wearer's face and to absorb sweat.

Some fursuiters opt to wear a mask and/or makeup instead of a full head.

The head is usually removed when in the [[headless lounge]], so that the wearer can interact with other fursuiters and consume refreshments (typically large amounts of water). It is not usually removed in public, and it is considered [[Wikipedia:taboo|taboo]] to take a photograph of a fursuiter with their face visible.

====Eyes and sight====
Depending on the style of the costume, the wearer is able to see through the eyes, nose or mouth of the head; in some cases, the wearer sees through the tear ducts, the neck or a camouflaged space below the eyes — the location of the character's eyeballs and the opening that the wearer sees out of don't necessarily have to be in the same place.

A character's eyes can be made out of plastic globes or bowls (usually cut to size) or taxidermy eyes. The opening for the wearer to see from can be made out of plastic or aluminum mesh, plastic canvas or sheer fabrics such as nylon or chiffon. Some furries prefer to use their own eyes as the character's eyes, as it allows for added expression and makes the character seem more realistic.

=== Bodysuit ===
[[Image:Img 3594.jpg|250px|thumb|right|Synthetic fur. In this photo, the edge is held up, showing the nap runs from right to left. The backing holds the fur together.]]
The bodysuit is the full body of the character and includes the arms, legs, neck and tail. Bodysuits range from loose jumpsuits to form-fitting and/or padded costumes. A standard bodysuit pattern from a catalog can be used, and this basic pattern is usually altered to meet any required modifications, including all size and shape concerns. Many fursuit builders use dressmaker forms or [[Wikipedia:DIY|DIY]] [[duct tape dummy|duct tape dummies]] to build their costumes to ensure a snug fit.

Bodysuits also carry a great amount of detail. Most include a simple light patch down the middle of the torso to represent a cartoon-like stomach area. Various suits have detailed patterns added, either by sewing in different coloured/textured fur or by the use of [[Wikipedia:Airbrushing|airbrushing]] (for example, the stripes of a [[tiger]].) Varying lengths of fur can be used, including shorter fur for the stomach.

[[Image:Img 3598.jpg|250px|thumb|left|A fursuit closure showing both zipper and snaps.]]
A character's shape can be reinforced through the use of padding. Simple padding, such as foam inserts, can lightly define or highlight certain areas. [[Canine|Canid]] suits often employ padding in the legs to create the natural [[digitigrade]] shape of the animal. For large or muscled characters, large inserts or a special undersuit known as a '''muscle suit''' or '''bodypod''' are worn underneath to give the character the needed girth. Some fursuiters portray characters opposite of their natural gender and incorporate the necessary padding into their design.

Most bodysuits include a zipper closure in the back, which is camouflaged by either snaps or velcro concealed under a section of overlapping fur. Several suits have a front closure instead of one in the back.

The issue of what to wear under a bodysuit varies from person to person. Some wear a lycra dive skin or unitard. Some wear their street clothes, and some wear nothing at all.

=== Tail ===
[[Image:Fursuit-tail.jpg|300px|thumb|right|A simple tail, ready to be sewn.]]
Simple tails can be thought of as a fabric tube, with the ends sewn up. Sometimes, lengths of delrin rod, foam, wire, or plastic pipe are used to give a tail its desired shape. The tail is usually attached to the bodysuit, though in some cases, the tail is attached to a loop of fabric that runs through a belt and the tail protrudes through a hole in the back of the bodysuit.

In the case of larger tails, such as [[skunk]] or [[squirrel]] tails, fur is usually secured to a large plastic or aluminum support structure, which is in turn attached via a hole in the back of the suit to a harness worn by the performer to take the weight of the tail off of the performer's back; this harness is also worn under the clothing or costume of a partial suit.

=== Forepaws ===
Forepaws (or hands) are usually created from two pieces of fabric, traced from the wearer's hand, and sewn together. More complex patterns can also be used, including varying colours and fabrics (fur, felt, etc.) Some fursuit makers add small pawpads to each digit and to the palm to add more realism to the paws; some lightly stuff the pawpads for extra realism. Claws can be made from plastic, leather, resin (most for replica claws such as for [[bear]]s or [[bird]]s) and clay.

=== Hindpaws ===
[[Image:Fursuit-foot-foam.jpg|300px|thumb|right|A foam hindpaw midway through the carving stage.]]
Hindpaws (or feet) are the most durable part of the fursuit, as they constantly come in contact with abrasive and dirty surfaces such as concrete and tile flooring and they must put up with a lot of wear and tear and the weight of the performer. Some fursuiters build hindpaws specific to their character, while some wear regular shoes, oversized cartoon shoes or spats (fabric slips that cover regular shoes.)

Most hindpaws are made by attaching foam to store-bought shoes or slippers and furring them. Some fursuit makers build the hindpaws from scratch. The solepads, in this case, can be made of leather or rubber. A variant popular among members of the [[Free paws]] community — who prefer going barefoot — are hindpaws that only cover the top of the feet, leaving the wearer's soles bare.

Even more difficult are [[digitigrade]] hindpaws; either simulated, with fake ankle joints made of foam on the back of the legs, or with a structure supporting a digitigrade position (then however, it becomes difficult to put on the fursuit or to wear it for an extended time). Some constructions for [[Hoof|hooves]] use this approach.

==Maintenance==

Some fursuiters spray their costumes with Febreeze, Endbac, Lysol, or a generic antibacterial spray after each use. Usually fursuiters select a product that will kill bacteria, rather than just mask odours. During storage, the fursuiter may keep it stored with a fabric softener sheet, or a box of baking soda like the ones used in a fridge or freezer.

The fursuit is regularly brushed. Fursuiters usually try to brush the fur in such a way that it doesn't pull on the fur backing, as not to weaken it.

When it comes time to wash the suit, fursuiters consider each part individually. If foam is soaked in water, it may not dry quickly enough and start to grow bacteria or fungus before it does. Airbrushed patterns may fade if washed. Glue used to hold parts of the suit together may weaken if washed. Leather is usually not advisable to soak in water. If the suit has any electronics, those may be damaged by water. If wire or plastic canvas gives part of the suit its shape, it may not be advisable to soak that part, or at least not to machine-wash it.

The parts that will not be washed can usually be wiped with a damp cloth. Stains may be removable with a product like [[Bubble Gund]].

The parts that will be washed can either be machine washed or hand-washed. Usually the fursuit is turned inside-out and zipped up to avoid extra stress to the fur. No heat is used during the process as this can shrivel the fur. For detergent some will use a regular laundry detergent, while some may use a special detergent like Woolite. Putting undiluted detergent directly onto the fur may cause fading, so fursuiters try to avoid this except for treating stains. For machine-washing, the fursuiter chooses one of the more delicate cycles. For hand-washing, the fursuiter tries not to stretch the backing, and not to squeeze the fur into an alignment other than its natural lying flat state.

After the suit is washed, it is then dried. The fursuiter may fluff it up in the dryer in an air-only cycle. '''No heat is used in any step.''' Usually the fursuiter does not dry it completely, but takes it out and brushes it periodically until it is completely dry. Since waterlogged fur is heavy, the fursuiter may go to some lengths to lay it out flat while drying, so it doesn't stretch from the extra weight. Fans may be used to accelerate the drying process.

Fursuiters are divided over whether [[Wikipedia:drycleaning|dry cleaning]] is advisable for fursuits. Since dry-cleaners can choose from many different methods and settings, and there are many types of fur, it is likely that one answer does not apply to all situations.

== Performance ==
[[Image:Fursuit Markus Hug.JPG|right|thumb|[[Markus]] offering a hug.]]
A key part of playing a character in suit is an engaging performance. The most expensive fursuit in the world will not help someone who does not know how to use it. Looking good is important, but not as important as ''acting''.

How the performer acts in costume reflects on how others relate to them. If the desired character is bouncy and bubbly, then acting that way is required to communicate it to spectators.

The design of the suit plays a part in some of the moves that can be done. For example, some fursuiters with floppy muzzles nod their heads up and down rapidly to simulate laughter or enjoyment. This cannot be done with suits with a rigid muzzle, or no muzzle at all.

=== Body language ===

Fursuiters do not generally speak in costume. This may be for a variety of reasons:
* To preserve the anonymity or conceal the gender of the performer
* The design of most suits muffles the voice of the performer
* Most animals don't talk

Because of this, acting in suit is all about body language.

== See also ==
*[[:Category:Fursuiters|Fursuiters]]
*[[:Category:Fursuit makers|Fursuit makers]]
*[[:Category:Fursuit photographs|Fursuit photographs]]
*[[Wikipedia:Fursuit|Fursuit]] at Wikipedia

== External links ==

=== Tutorials ===
*[http://www.matrices.net/fursuiting.asp Costuming and fursuiting] at [[Matrices]].net
*[http://www.livejournal.com/userinfo.bml?user=fursuit The Fursuit community] (on LiveJournal)
*[http://www.fursuit.org/wiki/doku.php?id=fursuit:introduction Fursuit FAQ Wiki at The Furry Costume Information Exchange]
*[http://www.nicodemus.org/fursuit/ Nicodemus' Fursuit Pages] - a good source of information by [[Nicodemus (person)|Adam "Nicodemus" Riggs]]; consider his book, ''[[Critter Costuming: Making Mascots and Fabricating Fursuits]]''
*[http://www.jinglefox.com/guides/index.php Furry World Guides] by [[Santa Fox]] - includes several fursuiting guides

=== Databases ===
* [http://www.frappr.com/fursuiters A map dedicated to fursuiters around the world]
* [http://fur-suit.org The Fursuit Database] A comprehensive Fursuit database
* fursuiter.org - fursuit database - Defunct

=== Other ===
* [http://fursuit.org/ The Furry Costume Information Exchange]
* [http://fursuit.timduru.org/ The Fursuit Archive]
* [http://www.fursuit.co.uk/ Fursuit.co.uk] The British fursuit site
* [http://www.onefurall.com/ onefurall.com] Fursuit gallery and commissioning
* [http://www.crushyiffdestroy.com/show/fs1 The Bitter Ex-furry's Guide to Fursuiting] at [[Crush Yiff Destroy]] (mostly bitter, but a few good points)
* [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XKCRMnSxz4 Example of fursuit dancing] on YouTube

== References ==
* ''Critter Costuming: Making Mascots and Fabricating Fursuits'' by [[Nicodemus (person)|Adam Riggs]], [http://www.ibexa.com/ Ibexa Press], September 2004, 208 pages (spiral-bound), ISBN 0967817072, ([http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0967817072/ Amazon link])
<references />

{{Wikipedia|Fursuit}}

[[Category:Fursuit terms]]
[[Category:Fursuiting]]
[[Category:Clothing]]
{{Featured article}}

[[cs:Fursuity]]
[[de:Fursuit]]
[[fi:Fursuit]]
[[fr:Fursuit]]
[[pt:Fursuit]]

History

2008-07-13T20:53:40Z

Science Dog: /* The rise of anthropomorphic animals usage */

'''[[Furry fandom]]''' is a popular cultural phenomenon and a community of people who are interested in aspects of [[animal]]s and animal/[[human]] beings in art, literature, visual media and/or as the basis for a personal philosophy and/or [[lifestyle]].

==Before the fandom==

The genre itself may be as old as civilization. [[Anthropomorphic]] animal characters are found in the art of many ancient cultures. Anthropomorphic characters from [[Egyptian mythology]] continue to this day to be a source of inspiration to [[furry artist]]s. The earliest example of furry literature commonly cited by furry fans is [[Aesop's Fables]], which date to around 500 BC.<ref>[http://www.claws-and-paws.com/furry/non-fiction/faq.html Furries] - description of the fandom with reference to Aesop’s Fables.</ref> Furry characters then continued to proliferate through the ages in the form of folk tales, many of which are a common part of our modern culture.

==== The rise of anthropomorphic animals usage ====

It is not until the 1800’s that more specifically documented examples of the furry genre can be chronicled. And they are seen appearing in a variety of different forms of entertainment. These include the earliest author credited animal related fairytales by Hans Christian Anderson in 1836, the poem ''The Owl And The Pussycat'' by Edward Leer in 1871, Lewis Carroll’s fantasy novel ''Alice's Adventures In Wonderland'' in 1865, Tchaikovsky’s ballet ''Swan Lake'' in 1875, Beatrix Potter’s illustrated children’s books in 1890, Rudyard Kipling’s collection of talking animal stories ''[[The Jungle Book]]'' in 1894, H. G. Wells’ 1896 novel ''The Island Of Doctor Moreau'' was the first appearance of intelligent animals in science fiction, and the first appearance of anthropomorphic animals in comic strips was James Swinnerton’s ''The Little Tigers'' in 1895.

Depictions of anthropomorphic animals was firmly established by the start of the 20th century. Since then it has enjoyed many ups and downs in terms of popularity and acceptability among adults. Particularly in the early 20th century, fantasy animal characters were an object of fascination to children and adults alike, appearing in almost every conceivable type of entertainment and establishing themselves as a major marketing tool, not only of consumer products, but of political ideas. This was best demonstrated In 1945 by George Orwell’s [[Animal Farm]].

In the later half of the 20th century, general attitudes towards animal related fantasy changed. Cartoons and literature focused most of their animal related efforts on the children’s entertainment market, inspiring many to believe that cartoons and animal stories were strictly for kids. Though this does not seem to have prevented adults from continuing to enjoy the antics of funny animals in the comic strips.

Since then, the mainstream entertainment industry has continued to create many works with anthropomorphic animals which are mostly directed at children, while the furry community has steadily grown on the internet providing entertainment for audiences of all ages.

== Formation of the furry fandom ==

Many agree that furry fandom had its origins in [[funny animal fandom]], which has existed since at least the 1940s. In the 1980s, a group of fans interested in animal [[character]]s in [[comic]]s and stories was forming around other organized fan activities. [[Room parties]] at [[science fiction]] [[convention]]s (furry parties), meetings of the [[C/FO]], and [[APA]] [[collating party|collating parties]] (for [[funny animal]] and cartooning APAs, such as [[Vootie]] and [[Rowrbrazzle]]). Fans kept in contact with each other on computer [[BBS]]s (Bulletin Board Systems) like the [[Tiger's Den]], [[StormGate Aerie]] and [[Kyim's Scratching Post]]; and in the early 1990s through on-line chat environments (e.g. [[Wikipedia:GEnie|GEnie]], [[Wikipedia:CompuServe|CompuServe]], [[Wikipedia:Prodigy (ISP)|Prodigy]] and [[Wikipedia:Delphi online service|Delphi]]). APAs and [[fanzine]] "wars" became popular, with mail-in art and [[comic]] contributions collated and distributed to all members.

== Furry fandom timeline ==

In the earlier days of the fandom, furry fans used to gather mostly at [[science fiction]], [[fantasy]], and [[comic]] conventions before the [[furry parties]] broke out into full-fledged [[furry]] conventions.

==== 1960s ====

In the late 60’s the beginnings of a backlash against this could be seen. The pop culture of the late sixties and early 70’s used funny animal imagery in many creative works meant for adults. The Beatles wearing [[fursuit]]s on the cover of Magical Mystery Tour and the advent of Robert Crumb’s [[Fritz the Cat]] showed that many creative people saw more use for animal characters than children’s entertainment.

==== 1970s ====

In 1976, Furry Folk also became the name of a popular line of animal [[puppet]]s.<ref>[http://www.allthingsbright.com/FurryFolk/index.html Furry Folk Puppets] - example of the term Furry gaining popularity in the 70's.</ref> From that time, the term “Furry” has gradually gained popularity as an alternative to the term “Funny Animals,” as it does not carry a connotation of humor, and it is inclusive of all fantasy animals, not just the ones that walk upright and wear clothes. The term has today reached such prominent use that it is not unheard of for reviewers to refer to the characters in such films as [[Over The Hedge]] as “Furries.” <ref>[http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/18/AR2006051802306.html?sub=AR Critters Offer Consumer Retorts] - review in which the characters in Over The Hedge are referred to as furries.</ref>

The term “Funny Animals” soon spread beyond comic strips and into the realm of illustrated children's books. Authors such as Palmer Cox, Laura Rountree Smith and Neil Wayne Northey not only referred to their anthropomorphic characters as “Funny Animals,” they also referred to them collectively as “the furry folk” and “furry friends.” <ref>[http://72.14.209.104/search?q=cache:CZWdgw8LLhkJ:remnantprophecy.sdaglobal.org/Librarypdf/Children%27s/Paddletail-Beaver.pdf+Furry+Folk&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=437 Neil Wayne Northey's Paddletail] - example of early 20th century literature with the term Furry Folk highlighted throughout.</ref>

The term “Furry” has since remained in the background of animal related fantasy. Particularly in the English folk culture scene. As late as 1978, bands like Genesis and Jethro Tull were still using this furry folk terminology to refer to anthropomorphic animals in their songs.<ref>[http://64.233.161.104/search?q=cache:k-4PKXz_s3sJ:www.lyricsfreak.com/j/jethro%2Btull/the%2Bmouse%2Bpolice%2Bnever%2Bsleeps_20071013.html+little+furry+folk&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=40 The Mouse Police Never Sleeps] 1978 Jethro Tull lyrics with Furry Folk highlighted.</ref>

Serious animal literature soon began to appear that proved to have surprising appeal for adults. Richard Adams’ [[Watership Down]] and Richard Bach’s [[Wikipedia:Jonathan Livingston Seagull|Jonathan Livingston Seagull]] topped the best seller list in the early 70’s.

In the late 70’s, attitudes began to change again. Fantasy in general began to enjoy more respect among adult audiences, eventually becoming a major entertainment market in which there was considerable room for furry elements, such as the [[Wikipedia:Ewoks|Ewoks]] and [[Wikipedia:Wookiees|Wookiees]] of [[Star Wars]], and the mythical creatures in [[Wikipedia:Piers Anthony|Piers Anthony]] novels.

==== 1980s ====

The fandom for furry characters traces its organization back to a science fiction convention in 1980,<ref>''[http://www.arclight.net/~yarf/YARF_Chronology.html Yarf Chronology Of Furry Fandom]''</ref> when a drawing of a character from [[Steve Gallacci]]’s Albedo started a discussion of anthropomorphic characters in science fiction novels, spawning a discussion group that met at various [[science fiction]] and [[comics]] [[convention]]s.

In 1980, at the [[Worldcon|World Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Boston, Massachusetts|Boston, Massachusetts]], an [[Erma Felna]] painting by [[Steve Gallacci]] was entered in the art show. The [[funny animal]] artwork in an otherwise realistic setting drew attention among fans showing a common interest in [[science fiction]] and [[fantasy]] about intelligent animals. This led to an informal series of gatherings at Worldcons and [[Westercon]]s, which eventually branched into a club centered around [[Rowrbrazzle]] to organize more "formal" [[furry parties]].

1982 saw the release of four all ages furry films - [[The Secret Of NIMH]], [[The Flight Of Dragons]], [[The Last Unicorn]] and [[The Plague Dogs]]. While the fantasy novel market soon began producing such titles as Alan Dean Foster’s [[Spellsinger]] series, Brian Jacques’ [[Redwall]] and Tad Williams’ [[Tailchaser’s Song]]. And the independent comics market produced titles as varied as [[Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles]], [[Albedo]], [[Usagi Yojimbo]], [[Cutey Bunny]], [[Critters]] and [[Omaha The Cat Dancer]].

Over the next several years, a gradually increasing number of “furry fans” developed [[fanzines]] and eventually began to have gatherings at house parties. By 1987 enough interest had been generated for the first furry convention.

As the internet became more accessible, it became the most popular means for furry fans to keep in touch and share their artistic efforts. This gained the fandom higher visibility and it began to grow rapidly.

Virtual environments, such as [[MUD|MUCK]]s, soon became the most popular places on the net for furry fans to meet and communicate. One of the oldest and largest MUCKs in existence is [[FurryMUCK]]. One of the newest virtual environments to attract furry fans is [[Second Life]].

Near the beginning of the 80’s, the furry genre enjoyed the first explosion of popularity it had seen since the 1930’s. Furry characters littered the animation world as well as toy stores. But there was also adult furry entertainment.

In 1985, at the [[San Diego Comic Convention]], Judy Niver (one of the founders of the [[C/FO]]), hosted a party in her room at the Hotel San Diego. The [[Rowrbrazzle]] APA group was also having a party in the same hotel, and there was much overlap in attendance. After that party at Comic Con, it became a tradition to have at least one furry party during the convention. In more recent years, the Comic Con party has been called [[CritterConDiego]] and [[Califur Diego]].

Also, at the 1985 [[Westercon]] Science Fiction Convention in [[wikipedia:Sacramento Valley|Sacramento]], [[wikipedia:California|California]], [[Mark Merlino]] and [[Rod O'Riley]] hosted a [[room party]] in Sheldon and Tony Linker's room. Most room parties at sci-fi and fantasy cons have a theme, so the party was called The [[Prancing Skiltaire]] party, named after Mark's apartment. The show [[Animalympics]] was screened, along with some [[Warner Bros.]] short cartoons, and collections of [[furry art]]work and [[:Category:Short stories|short stories]] were on display. Several visitors to the party were very interested in the videos and the art. Some showed [[sketchbook]]s and collections of their furry art. Their party at the 1986 Westercon in [[wikipedia:San Diego, California|San Diego]], CA, was the first to be openly called a [[furry party]]. After the success of these parties, Mark and Rod began hosting similar events at conventions all over California.

In 1989, [[Mark Merlino]] and [[Rod O'Riley]] decided to expand on the furry party concept and host the first prototype [[furry convention]], [[ConFurence Zero]]. ConFurence continued to be the premier international gathering place of furry fans, until other independent furry-themed conventions were organized.

==== 1990s ====

By the start of the 90’s, the furry genre was finally starting to gain recognition as a unique segment of the arts with a specifically adult aged fandom that products could be marketed to. But this idea was not readily understood or accepted. And, as the fantasy boom of the 80’s began to subside, the promoters of the new furry market were driven underground, where they found companionship with another fledgling market, [[anime]].

On the [[wikipedia:United States|U.S.]] east coast, furry fans were gathering at the [[wikipedia:New York|New York]] chapter of the [[C/FO]], founded by [[Ken Sample]] and friends. [[Ray Rooney]] and [[Major Matt Mason]] hosted parties in their suite at [[wikipedia:Philcon|Philcon]] in [[wikipedia:Philadelphia|Philadelphia]] for several years. Philcon eventually hosted the first major Furry [[art show]] and [[dealer's room]]. In 1994, [[Trish Ny]] organized [[Furtasticon]], a prototype east coast furry convention at the [[wikipedia:Holiday Inn|Holiday Inn]], next to the [[Adam's Mark]] hotel, Philcon's venue. Trish went on to found [[ConFurence East]] in 1995.

In 1996, at the [[Worldcon|World Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Anaheim, California|Anaheim, California]], the [[Furry Fandom Lounge]] was organized by the [[ConFurence]] committee as five-day furry programming track. The general Worldcon program schedule publicized the furry parties, panels, and exhibits which even included a glass-encased "History of Furry Fandom" display by [[David Bliss]].

In 1997, [[Anthrocon]] is first held in [[wikipedia:Albany, New York|Albany, New York]] and goes on to become the largest [[furry convention]] to date.

In 1999, at the [[NASFiC|North American Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Anaheim, California|Anaheim, California]], the [[Furry Fandom Lounge]] reflected on 15 years of fandom. That year also saw the launch of [[Further Confusion]] in the Bay Area of [[wikipedia:San Francisco, CA|San Francisco, CA]], which eventually becomes the second largest [[furry convention]] in the world.

==== 2000s ====

Today, those furry fans who have discovered the large concentration of fellow fans on the net have joined with them to create the virtual society that is the collective furry community. Other furry fans, particularly the computer illiterate, remain isolated in their interest with little to no awareness that there is an organized community for fans of the furry genre.

Furry conventions have exploded in the 2000's decade, with over 30 cons starting up, so far. In comparison, the 90's saw 13 cons, all but two of them after 1995.<ref>http://furry.wikia.com/wiki/Convention</ref>

In 2003, Dr. Samuel Conway (also known as [[Uncle Kage]] of [[Anthrocon]]) was a [[guest of honor]] at the [[I-CON]] science fiction and fantasy convention in [[wikipedia:Stony Brook, New York|Stony Brook, New York]]. His renowned story hour has since become a fixture of the convention through recent years.

In 2006, at the [[NASFiC|North American Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:SeaTac, Washington|SeaTac, Washington]], the [[Stalking Cat]] was one of the notable program participants.

At the 2006 [[Westercon]] in [[wikipedia:San Diego, California|San Diego]], a 20th anniversary furry party was held.

At the 2006 [[Worldcon|World Science Fiction Convention]] in [[wikipedia:Anaheim, California|Anaheim, California]], the [[Furry Fandom Lounge]] returned under the organization of [[Rod O'Riley]] of the [[Califur]] group. The programming track included a furry artist reception and panels ranging from [[fursuit]]ing basics to the new world of furry [[webcomic]]s.

== The Internet ==

By 1992, furry fans could participate in on-line social role-playing environments for free, if they had access to the Internet. [[MUCK]]s, Mushes and [[MOO]]s were created by furry fans for furry fans and hosted at educational and commercial sites. With the dawn of the World Wide Web, furry fans found their Mecca, with personal web sites, art and writing archives and forums providing a way for furry fans to communicate and share their interests internationally. [[Yerf]] and [[YiffCo]] and [[VCL]] and other art archives soon dominated the art scene.

In the late 1990's, [[David J. Rust]] (aka [[Sylvan]]), attempted to document the internal social dynamics and trends within Furry fandom. While originally intended to be a [[fan film]] documentary, the research he conducted from 1996 - 1997 was eventually collated into [[The Sociology of Furry Fandom, a Subculture Study]], the first academic study of [[furry sociology]].

== Small press publishers ==
{{Split}}
''See: [[History of anthropomorphic characters in small press publications]]''

== References ==
<references/>

== External links ==

* The [[YARF!]] ''[http://yarf.furry.com/chronology.html Chronology of Furry Fandom]'' by [[Fred Patten]]

{{History}}
[[Category:Culture]]
[[Category:History]]
[[Category:Sociology]]
[[Category:Timelines]]

Bally

2008-06-13T19:15:22Z

Science Dog: Added RL picture

[[Image:president.png|right|frame|Science Dog]]
[[Image:Rlsciencedog.jpg|right|220px|Science Dog at Further Confusion 2008]]
'''Science Dog''' is a [[furry]] from [[wikipedia:Morgan Hill, California|Morgan Hill, California]]. His [[fursona]] is a Golden Retriever.

Bon in [[wikipedia:Redondo Beach, California|Redondo Beach, California]] on July 3, 1991, Science Dog had become an honor student at many of his schools. His intrest in [[Anthropomorphic|anthropomorism]] developed in early 2007 when he read about it on Wikipedia. He attended [[Further Confusion 2008]] has has consitered himself a furry since then. He has plans to attend [[Further Confusion 2009]].

==Exteral links==
{{Contributor|Science Dog}}
*[http://www.myspace.com/typicalknowitall Science Dog] on [[MySpace]]

{{person-stub}}
[[Category:1991 births]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Dog characters]]
[[Category:California]]

File:Rlsciencedog.jpg

2008-06-13T19:05:44Z

Science Dog: Real-life picture of Science Dog intended to be used in his article. Photograph taken by his mother at Further Confusion 2008.

== Summary ==
Real-life picture of [[Science Dog]] intended to be used in his article. Photograph taken by his mother at [[Further Confusion 2008]].
== Licensing ==
{{Cc-by-sa-3.0-and-GFDL}}

Bally

2008-06-13T19:01:43Z

Science Dog:

[[Image:president.png|right|frame|Science Dog]]
'''Science Dog''' is a [[furry]] from [[wikipedia:Morgan Hill, California|Morgan Hill, California]]. His [[fursona]] is a Golden Retriever.

Bon in [[wikipedia:Redondo Beach, California|Redondo Beach, California]] on July 3, 1991, Science Dog had become an honor student at many of his schools. His intrest in [[anthropomorism]] developed in early 2007 when he read about it on Wikipedia. He attended [[Further Confusion 2008]] has has consitered himself a furry since then. He has plans to attend [[Further Confusion 2009]].

==Exteral links==
{{Contributor|Science Dog}}
*[http://www.myspace.com/typicalknowitall Science Dog] on [[MySpace]]

{{person-stub}}
[[Category:1991 births]]
[[Category:People]]
[[Category:Dog characters]]
[[Category:California]]

Bally

2008-06-12T22:17:38Z

Science Dog:

[[Image:president.png|right|frame|Science Dog]]
'''Science Dog''' is a [[furry]] from [[wikipedia:Morgan Hill, California|Morgan Hill, California]]. His [[fursona]] is a Golden Retriever.
==Exteral links==
*[http://www.myspace.com/typicalknowitall Science Dog] on [[MySpace]]

{{Contributor|Science Dog}}
[[Category:1991 births]]
[[Category:Dog characters]]
[[Category:Christian furs]]
[[Category:California]]

User:Science Dog

2008-06-12T22:09:52Z

Science Dog:

I am Science Dog the Golden Retretriever. For more information please see [[Science Dog|my article]].
<div style="float:right; width:250px;">
{|border="1px" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="0" style="text-align: center; width: 250px; margin: auto;"
|-
|{{User Further Confusion}}
|-
|{{User Welcomer}}
|}
</div>

User:Science Dog

2008-06-12T22:09:05Z

Science Dog:

User:Science Dog

2008-06-12T21:59:06Z

Science Dog:

I am Science Dog the Golden Retretriever. For more information please see [[Science Dog|my article]].

Bally

2008-06-12T21:56:55Z

Science Dog:

'''Science Dog''' is a [[furry]] from [[wikipedia:Morgan Hill, California|Morgan Hill, California]]. His [[fursona]] is a Golden Retriever.
==Exteral links==
[http://www.myspace.com/typicalknowitall Science Dog] on [[MySpace]]

{{Contributor|Science Dog}}
[[Category:1991 births]]
[[Category:Dog characters]]
[[Category:Christian furs]]
[[Category:California]]

Bally

2008-06-12T21:54:13Z

Science Dog: Created page with ''''Science Dog''' is a furry from Morgan Hill, California. His fursona is a Golden Retriever. {{Contributor|Science Dog}} [[Categor...'

'''Science Dog''' is a [[furry]] from [[wikipedia:Morgan Hill, California|Morgan Hill, California]]. His [[fursona]] is a Golden Retriever.

{{Contributor|Science Dog}}
[[Category:1991 births]]
[[Category:Dog characters]]
[[Category:Christian furs]]
[[Category:California]]

User:Science Dog

2008-06-12T21:44:25Z

Science Dog: Created page with 'Welcome to my page. I am Science Dog the Golden Retretriever.'

Welcome to my page. I am Science Dog the Golden Retretriever.