Furry Conference 2008 San Jose California

As I am constantly looking to find new ideas and ways to present material see how other conferences are successful. I was surprised I did not see Tim Bourquin at this event. He seems to be at every event these days. But many people were in animal suits so he could have been there.

< --I called this furry a lounge lizard and paid the price.

I met my old friend Steve and we had a beer or two and watched the action in the San Jose Doubletree hotels lobby. I did have some apprehension being so close to wild animals after the Tiger attack at the SF Zoo recently. But the Tigers here were more concerned with hugging each other. We wanted to see what this whole Furry conference is about. He actual brought his girlfriend back to the conference the next day. He also enjoyed meeting the Furry who also went to USC.

The Furcon or Futher Confusion or Furry Conference Here is the website.

Description:

Further Confusion is one of the largest international conventions celebrating anthropomorphics in all its guises. With an attendance of over 2,000 and growing, it is one of the premiere events of its kind. Further Confusion includes charitable benefits, educational seminars, art shows, panels and general social activities. It was the first event sponsored by Anthropomoprhic Arts and Education Inc. and continues to be its largest.

Furry, is a colloquial term used to describe a particular category of fictional animal. A Furry creature is anthropomorphic, where human and animal characteristics are both present. It can be physical, mental or both. They can be funny or serious. Usage of the term furry is limited almost exclusively to members of Furry Fandom or other cultural groups aware of furry fandom. The term Furry is also sometimes used to refer to fans of the anthropomorphic arts. Such arts range widely and include animators, illustrators, film makers, costume designers and performers, actors, voice talent, literary authors and songwriters.

My take on this conference is I think its fantastic the furries have a place to hang out together. Everyone was friendly even to those of us who walked aroudn taking pictures of the animals. I found it interesting that many had real animals with them. Mostly dogs.

< --poor guy was dressed up like a human.

One ballroom was full of furry art and it was really amazing. I got a handful of cards of artists. Talked to a few. You never know when you might need some sort of animal drawings or animations done for an event or meeting. (no pictures were allowed in the ballroom)

Some more media from the lobby.