I created illustrations of a panda to depict the daily struggles of my life.
Ojisan (Uncle in Japanese) Panda, a middle-aged panda who struggles with waking up in the morning, frequently experiences insomnia and have overweight and other common issues just like you and me. If you are someone like Ojisan Panda, you are not alone.
If you are interested, you can find my previous posts on We here, here and here.
More info: Instagram | Facebook | xiaobaosg.com
#1 Before The Alarm Went Off
“Ojisan” means “Uncle” or “middle-aged man” in Japan. “Ojisan Panda” is inspired by my own journey into my 40s, becoming a middle-aged uncle myself. In my 40s, I felt a decline in my activity levels, a growing belly, and a receding hairline. It’s a daily, both physical and mental, struggle to hold onto the remnants of my youth
#2 Who Says I’m Single?
#3 Weekend Plans
I believe these daily struggles are common, and everyone faces them at some juncture in life. Such feelings can often be negative and can weigh a person down. My aim with my artwork is to bring a smile to people’s faces and convey this message: you are not alone! The artwork is humorous, intending to give a positive vibe that, despite lifestyle challenges, one can still find happiness and authenticity in life.
#4 Wake Up On The Wrong Side Of The Bed
#5 You Are Breathtaking!
Many relate to “Ojisan Panda.” I sometimes receive comments that some pieces of my artwork perfectly mirror their own experiences, bringing smiles to their faces.
I plan to expand the universe of “Ojisan Panda” to encompass themes of family and friendship, allowing for deeper character development through the depiction of daily interactions with others. I’ve recently begun incorporating my pet Pomeranian into some of the “Ojisan Panda” art pieces.
#6 Imbalance
#7 I Can Do This All Day
In my free moments, I reflect on my activities, thoughts, and conversations, brainstorming ways to encapsulate these moments in art. I also regularly browse social media, Pinterest, We, and other websites to grasp common concerns or topics that resonate with people. I’m an avid anime watcher, which greatly influences my art style. Thus, “Ojisan Panda” often “thinks and expresses his feelings” in an anime-like manner.
#8 Always Ready
#9 Masked Away!
#10 Morning Allergies
#11 But One Day
#12 Weekend Plans
#13 Cry Me A River
#14 Cry Me A River Too
#15 Pantoro
#16 Keep Sleeping
#17 Sweet Dreams
#18 Not Now
#19 5 More Minutes
#20 It’s Not A Crime For A Panda To Cry
#21 Exploring Time
#22 Too “Am”
#23 Sleep First!