Doodling With Purpose

Freelance illustrator and cartoonist Mounica Tata enjoys creating illustrations that make people think

- Mounica Tata

What took you from a commerce degree to a career in illustration?

MT: I am a commerce graduate who went on to do a Master’s in Mass Communication. I’ve always enjoyed drawing and telling stories. Making comics looked like the perfect marriage between the two! A self-taught artist, I didn’t take any professional training in the field of art. I used my curiosity and passion to learn the ropes of the trade.

Describe your style.

MT: I work primarily on digital art. My style is ever changing, ever evolving. I try and draw from memory and I usually go for ‘rounder’ styles. I am also fascinated by black and white and monochromes so I try and experiment a lot. I like keeping it simple and easy to consume.

What is your approach to storytelling?

MT: All my stories come from everyday life drama. A lot of them stem from my own personal experiences. My work is essentially my observation on society and culture. I like consuming and creating pieces that prod people to think and introspect. I pick issues or topics that are relatable and familiar to all but are just never spoken of. I then try to break this down, understand my perspective on it, and then view it from a more holistic perspective.

Why did you quit a day job to become a freelance illustrator?