Do you enjoy the cleverness of single-panel cartoons? We certainly do! This format combines simplicity with humor, packing a punch in just one illustration, a few words, and a minimalist design. Crafting a successful single-panel comic is no easy feat—it requires the perfect balance of all these elements to make people laugh. Mat Barton is one of the cartoonists who has truly mastered this art.
For this first-time feature of his work, we thought it would be best to let Mat himself share his creative journey. So, Bored Panda reached out for a chat. When asked about how it all started, Mat reflected, “I’ve been drawing cartoons since childhood. I was a huge fan of Calvin and Hobbes and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.”
More info: matbarton.com | Instagram | newmobility.com
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When asked about what makes a comic truly stand out and the common pitfalls artists should avoid, the cartoonist offered his insights: “The comics I find most engaging are the ones that bring a fresh perspective and offer something new. I admire cartoonists who can ‘draw funny,’ especially those with a unique, unconventional style. It’s a challenge to create cartoons that look different from the mainstream, and I constantly strive to do so. I enjoy discovering new artists who manage to pull it off. One major mistake many artists make is neglecting basic perspective—it can really derail a drawing and distract from the humor. Also, don’t forget to look at older cartoons for inspiration. My final tip: draw what makes you laugh, not what you think a publisher will want. The best comics come from a place of genuine humor, not something forced. Make yourself laugh first, and the rest will follow.”
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