Meet Umka! She is a 30-year-old artist and fandom member from Russia.
Describe yourself in three words.
Lazy. Sentimental. Introvert.
How long have you been drawing?
Since childhood. I got my love of drawing from my mother. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to attend art school, but I’ve learned a lot on my own.
What kind of medium or equipment do you use?
For digital art, I use a Wacom Bamboo tablet and Paint Tool SAI. Also, I like drawing with pencils and ball-point pens.
How did you get involved in the Shadowhunters fandom?
It was an accident. My sister watches a lot of television, so she sent me a screenshot of Malec and wrote, ‘Wow! Look at them! They’re amazing!’ And from there, I fell in love with Shadowhunters. Then I wanted to know more about this world, so I read Cassandra Clare’s books.
Who is your ultimate favorite character to draw and why?
Magnus, of course. He’s ‘quite magical,’ he’s confident, he’s the ‘jewel of the fandom.’ Cassandra Clare created a character that many people want to be like.
What ships do you ship, and why you love them so much?
Malec, Malec, Malec [laughs]. I love these guys. I think that they represent what a perfect relationship is supposed to be. But I like other couples, too: Jimon, Clace, Sizzy, Saphael…I like seeing them on my screen as well as drawing them.
What has been the best part of your fandom experience so far?
Support. So many people have been so supportive in this fandom; this is all new for me. I’ve been getting messages from people from other countries; it’s all been great. I participated in ‘Malec Week’ on Tumblr this year, and that was a productive, happy time for me. I’m so glad to be part of this fandom.
Like what you see? You can follow Umka on Tumblr!
