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Being an actor can require going outside one’s comfort zone, which is why it’s helpful to have an object or two that invites a feeling of comfort. In our most recent edition of Awe Talk, our Editor-in-Chief Chris Arrant sat down with Vico Ortiz at GalaxyCon Columbus 2024 to talk about the things that ground them when they’re busy at work and in life. For Ortiz, a black tourmaline crystal is an item they always keep with them. 

While holding the crystal, Ortiz said, “This is black tourmaline, and I've had it since 2017. This always comes with me. This never leaves my body. It has always been with me. Even when I'm wearing a costume on a set or a stage, I will find a place to put this on me. When I was doing Our Flag [Means Death] in New Zealand, this was with me… I feel like it's kind of the one thing that I know, that's always there, and its usually in my left pocket… And when I have a different wardrobe or whatnot, I have to put it somewhere else. When I was Jim in Our Flag my outfits didn't have pockets, so I had to get creative with where I put it. But I always have it with me.” 

For Ortiz, who often travels around the country and world for work, having the crystal on them provides a powerful grounding feeling.

“It's a little reminder of like, 'Okay, I'm here in this present moment.' Wherever I am, this is me. But I don't think I have much travel in 2025. I say that now, but then it can change at a drop of a hat. But this is something that I always bring with me.” 

Thanks to GalaxyCon Columbus 2024 for facilitating this conversation. Please visit GalaxyCon.com for a complete list of their upcoming events.

 Popverse members can read the full conversation in our Awe Talk series here. If you’re not a Popverse member, you can learn more about our membership benefits here. 

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