Muhammad Misrad, the creator of Mice Cartoon, is a widely recognized cartoonist known for his distinctive style, combining social criticism with fresh humor. His interest in art began at an early age. "I've loved reading comics since kindergarten and elementary school," he said. This passion continued throughout his studies at the Jakarta Arts Institute, indicating that art has been a part of his life since childhood.
SpaceJakarta Team Documentation at the Mice Solo Exhibition, Bentara Budaya Jakarta
Mice's distinctive drawing style didn't just emerge. He admits to being inspired by various figures and works, both internationally and domestically. "From Walt Disney, Bart Simpson, and Datuk Lat from Malaysia. From Indonesia, there's Pak GM Sudarta and Ganes TH, Si Buta dari Gua Hantu ," he said. All of these influences shape the unique handwriting and visual characteristics of his works.
SpaceJakarta Team Documentation at the Mice Solo Exhibition, Bentara Budaya Jakarta
Mice's name became increasingly well-known when he duetted with Benny Rachmadi in Benny & Mice , which is famous for cartoons that poke fun at urban life, especially Jakarta. "Actually, it's not social criticism. We're just curious about the conditions around us," he said casually. For Mice, Jakarta is an endless source of inspiration. The dynamics of the city and the behavior of its citizens, which often feel "naturally comedic," made him feel the need to capture it all in comic form.
SpaceJakarta Team Documentation at the Mice Solo Exhibition, Bentara Budaya Jakarta
Although often containing social criticism, Mice conveys his message in a light and humorous manner. This is what makes his work so widely accepted. "Perhaps it's because it's delivered through satirical comedy, so the average response is, 'Yeah, that's true.' We're not judging, we're just capturing a reality that's inherently funny," he explained.
With an entertaining yet touching approach, Mice has succeeded in making cartoons not only a medium of entertainment, but also a mirror of social life that can invite readers to reflect while smiling.
Written by Noverdy R
