The furry fandom is a subculture interested in anthropomorphic animal characters in works of fiction, including books, comics, animation, films, television shows, video games, etc. Although the tradition of endowing animals with human characteristics and personalities has its roots in fairy tales and legends, the furry fandom as we know it began to emerge in the early 1980s within the science fiction and fantasy community. The first standalone furry convention took place in 1989 in the United States.
FinFur Summer Camp (FFSC) was first organized in 2011 by FinFur, a non-profit organization. It was an open-air camping event not suitable for a big number of attendees (the maximum attendance limit was 70 including staff). When the organizers realized that they needed a bigger convention to accommodate everyone who wanted to attend, they discontinued FFSC, took a one-year hiatus and began to plan a hotel-based convention.
The first FinFur Animus (FFA) was held from March 19 to 22, 2015 and drew 124 attendees. According to the FinFur team, the convention aims to be a warm and friendly gathering of like-minded individuals who share an interest in anthropomorphic animals and related subcultures. FinFur Animus offers a more laid back, community driven experience compared to other Finnish furry conventions.
The program of the convention includes stage performances, art shows, parties, raves, competitions, panels, video game tournaments, the Fursuit Theater, dealer tables, fursuit games, and other furry-related events and activities. At FinFur Animus, anyone can host their own small panel or other event as long as they let the organizers know in advance.
Each edition of FinFur Animus has a theme. For example, the inaugural convention was inspired by the American fantasy drama television series Game of Thrones, so its theme was Clash of Tails. Past themes also include Super FinFur Animus (retro games) and Fastest Tail of the West (Wild West).
Photo: kamuniak.com
