Illustrator Relates to the World Through Drawing Comics of Everyday Life

Comics have the incredible power to make us feel less alone. Whether they're destigmatizing mental illness or offering a healthy dose of silliness to make you smile, the medium speaks to everyone. The work of illustrator and comic artist Prudence falls right in line with her popular web comic Planet Prudence, which illustrates the little moments of life that many people—particularly women—find hilariously relatable.

In drawing comics, Prudence connects with her viewers while commiserating with them as well. Often, this includes the impossible beauty standards that are set for women. In a series of “Others” and “Me” illustrations, Prudence demonstrates societal expectations versus reality. One of our favorite iterations shows a “sexy” way to exit the pool. When the “other” leaves the pool, she looks flawless, while Prudence is struggling to climb out with mascara trailing down her face.

Not all of Prudence’s work is specifically about the female experience. Some comics are about reveling in laziness or the difficulties that come with adulting. Another especially witty comic points out that the two most painful things in life are heartbreak—no surprise there—and stepping on a plastic LEGO brick.

You can follow along with Prudence’s comics through her popular Instagram. But aside from making us laugh, she’s also raising money to support herself financially. She was recently diagnosed with a debilitating disease known as chronic fatigue syndrome/ Myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). Unable to drive or finish school, she has set up a Patreon account. Those who pledge as little as a $1 can get exclusive videos and insight to Prudence’s art while helping her maintain some independence.