Mereth Aderthad Interview: Interview with silmalope by Dawn

[daughterofshadows]

Since our first challenge back in 2005, Strong Women, the SWG has sought to establish a creative space where fanworks about characters from underrepresented groups aren't just welcomed but explicitly encouraged. Shadow's Mereth Aderthad 2025 presentation, "The Aromantic in Tolkien," is the perfect example of a fan-turned-scholar bringing forward a character identity that typically goes unseen and unacknowledged. Silmalope is the featured artist for Shadow's presentation, bringing their vibrant style and diverse character representations to the project. Dawn spoke with Silmalope about their inspiration as a creator of Tolkien-based fanworks, their connection to Shadow's topic on ace-aro characters, and the importance of diverse representation in fanworks.

You can read Dawn's interview with Silmalope here.