We had the pleasure of chatting with Zaanart all about Rooftops & Roommates
Can you tell us about the moment when the concept for “Rooftops & Roommates” first popped into your head?
In all honesty, I invented this story at the beginning of the pandemic, right as I was graduating from university (and missing convocation). I was missing the good times I had with my friends and invented a story that could remind everyone of the good times while still having a large fantastical element. Originally, Jeb was just intended to just be a strange guy with no magic, but my nerdy self couldn’t write a story without magic. And so the gargoyle element was introduced!
What inspired you to create a character like Jeb, a gargoyle secretly living as an architecture student?
Jeb’s story is one that I think a lot of young adults can relate to even without the fantastical element – too different from your family, but still struggling to fit in and find your place in the world. For myself, I grew up as a first-generation Canadian, which is what inspired me to make Jeb a first generation to the human world! His story is about the journey towards finding community as well as self-acceptance.
How do you strike a balance between Jeb’s dual life in the storyline and how does it contribute to the comic’s humor?
Jeb is a character stuck between two worlds. But where we’re used to seeing this theme in an emotional and divisive way, Jeb tries to optimistically embrace both halves of himself whilst getting into trouble at every turn. His enthusiasm for life and social spaces comes with the benefits of great friendships, but it also comes with great problems.
How does your storyline play off the dynamics between Jeb and Todd? Can you share some of your favorite moments between them?
Jeb and Todd, despite being so close, are always actually at odds with one another. In the first season, Todd was watching Jeb’s back while Jeb ran around recklessly, and in the second season when Todd has been introduced to the magical world their positions become reversed. My favorite moments definitely have to be the gargoyle chores they attend together because at the end of the day, neither of them have the skill or knowledge to perform them.
What inspired the architectural elements of your story? Is it a personal interest or does it link directly to Jeb’s gargoyle character?
It’s a bit of both! I’ve always been a little obsessed with gargoyles, but my love for gothic architecture comes a little bit separately. I had to study architecture in school, but sadly it went over my head- luckily for me, the same can be said about Jeb. Fun fact though- the very first story I tried writing when I was 14 was a scary story where gargoyles were the antagonists!
How has the WEBTOON platform supported and influenced your creative process?
WEBTOON has taught me a lot about the craft of comic making, but also about the business of it. For me this works fantastically because I can still be as creative as I want, but with the added bonus of knowing what my audience will really enjoy! I also learn so much from my editors, who worked really hard to get me confident in the craft early on in my career.
How do you think WEBTOON helps creators like yourself in reaching out to a wider audience?
For me personally, I don’t understand how to build an audience on my own, so WEBTOON acts as a signal boost for small creators. Beyond that, they’re good at encouraging creators to engage with your audience, giving creators a more positive environment while also reaching a larger audience.
Are there any fun fan reactions or interactions on WEBTOON that have surprised you or made your day?
My favorite fan interaction is the continued joke amongst commenters about which character currently holds the brain cell. It always managed to make me chuckle- that, and referring to Callias as some variety of chicken food.
Can you share a sneak peek or teaser about what readers can look forward to in the upcoming episodes of “Rooftops & Roommates”?
Look forward to plenty of surprises coming up! Some of them may be tall… and glowy?
Finally, if Jeb could give one piece of advice to all the readers out there keeping their own secrets, what do you think it would be?
Always confide in the people you trust! They may always be able to help, or just be emotional support.
