Fandy Susanto has spent more than a decade grinding it out as a graphic designer, crafting brand communication and personality based on the briefs given to him with no particular style. If his client likes it, then it is a success. However, a few years ago, inspired by The New Yorker editorial illustrations, the Swinburne University graduate began to draw something for himself after work or during breaks as an outlet for his thoughts and frustrations. 

“When I had something on my mind or was irritated about someone or something, I always kept it to myself, and I know that’s not healthy,” the 38-year-old said. “I used to write, but I found my writing to be cheesy, so drawing has been a really helpful way for me to vent.”

As someone who is not particularly confrontational, Fandy uses his drawings to respond to his situation and environment. Aside from using his own personal struggles and anxiety as a source of inspiration, he also focuses a lot on the relational aspects of urban society, the subconscious of the human mind and how we perceive each other. 

“Looking at social media, there are a lot of small things that people do that I find weird, and even offensive, like someone who is everywhere and goes to every social event out there,” he said. “I often draw ladders to represent social climbers and tongues because I hate [sycophants.]” 

“I can’t confront them because it’s not really my problem and I hate drama and confrontations,” he added. 

But a lot of Fandy’s illustrations are about his own perception of himself and in a way, his attempt to confront his own psyche. Many of his drawings feature large heads, referencing those who think too much of themselves, himself included. 

“Deep down, consciously or subconsciously, I’m an arrogant person, and that’s probably why I’m miserable,” Fandy admitted. “So the illustrations are directed at myself as much as anyone else.” 

Mischievous but critical

Even before the pandemic, award-winning Indonesian sculpture artist and curator Bagus Pandega had had his eyes on Fandy’s work. 

“His illustrations are very captivating, there are elements of mischievousness and yet they’re also critical,” Bagus said. “It’s not just about aesthetics, since Fandy cares more about his ideas than the technicality of the medium, and that’s what makes him interesting.” 

“Plus, his illustrations have never been displayed, so why not get him some exposure? He has produced enough work anyway,” Bagus continued.

Without Bagus’ invitation, Fandy’s illustrations would probably have never seen the light of day. 

“I don’t see myself as an artist; graphic design is my forte, but illustration isn’t, so having that confirmation from someone credible in the community, asking me to do an exhibition is a big deal,” Fandy said. “It’s a confidence thing.”

At his debut exhibition titled “The Hardest Way to Make an Easy Living”, Fandy showcases more than 40 of his works, from 2D illustrations, to photography, sculpture and installations. 

Located in a corner of the room, one piece displays a pair of green rain boots with human faces, made out of clay, looking out from the top edge. One face is asleep while the other one is awake. 

Inspired by the popular proverb “Don’t judge a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes,” Fandy explains that the piece represents a time when he was anxious about being constantly judged by other people, even when he was asleep. 

“It was a phase in my life when I was insecure and self-conscious,” he explains. “And who knows if other people actually judge you or not? I certainly don’t want to find out.” 

An illustration on a wall shows a face nested in multiple giant hands to the point that it cannot move, a reference to the feeling of being paralyzed by life problems, work problems, one’s desires, responsibilities and much more, Fandy said. 

“It’s a form of self-critique, and all those hands are my own hands,” he explained. 

Laugh at ourselves

Style-wise, Fandy’s illustrations are simple and unpolished, mostly in black and white with some basic colors added.

“I want it to be effortless,” he said. “And maybe it’s my graphic designer instinct to keep things minimalistic and not overcook it.” 

For his exhibition, Fandy hopes that first and foremost, the audience can have fun with his illustrations and then find something they can relate to and even laugh at themselves. 

“Some people find my art silly, but with hints of sadness as well,” Fandy said. 

“If you have your own interpretation and feel that a particular piece applies to you, then perhaps it’s secretly meant for you,” he said. “I don’t think I'm credible or mature enough to advise anyone on anything, but consider it as a heads-up maybe. It’s also a heads-up for myself.” 

“If one day I end up being a social climber myself, boy wouldn’t that be ironic?” he said laughing. 

Check out Fandy Susanto’s debut exhibition “The Hardest Way to Make an Easy Living”, running until Jan 22, 2022 at C ON TEMPORARY at Gormeteria Level 2, Jl. Pasir Kaliki 176, Bandung, West Java.

Popular

Indonesia, US sign reciprocal tariff agreement 

Trump 'Board of Peace' opens with money and troops for Gaza

Song Ji-hyo and Kim Jong-kook to donate remaining Running Man fee