#FaceOfWander
Meet Muhammad Iqbal Yudhistira (Iqbal), whose passion for drawing began in childhood, evolving into character illustration during high school. Early inspirations like graffiti served as a foundation for creative exploration. However, the journey has been marked by inconsistencies and challenges, especially in small-town Tuban, where professional opportunities in illustration were scarce. Despite this, self-driven learning and a commitment to creating meaningful work have propelled growth and recognition.
Iqbal lives in a small town presented with unique challenges, such as limited access to events, resources, and professional guidance. Compared to cities like Jakarta, where creative events happen daily, Tuban felt isolated. Yet, these limitations fostered his resilience and a determination to succeed. Notable achievements include remarkable collaborations with popular brands like Air Asia, PUMA Indonesia and United Army Indonesia (An Indonesia’s fans based on Manchester United
Puma Indonesia collaboration, which involved painting custom designs on three pairs of shoes, stands out as a testament to the artist’s unique style and ability to bring characters to life.
While Iqbal’s style draws heavily from art influences, particularly from formative years in Yogyakarta, there’s a growing appreciation for blending local and global elements. The journey of shaping his unique design identity has involved continuous learning, with his aspirations to collaborate across industries like cosmetics, food, and sports. The belief that talent can flourish anywhere, with the right mindset and dedication, underscores the importance of embracing practice and exposure.
“It’s a good idea to start by learning outside the city or even nation for broader exposure, but overall, we are already on the right track because learning could happen anywhere. However, the practical application is different and requires focused effort, we are getting there though”.
Looking ahead, Iqbal dreams to become an internationally recognized illustrator, inspired by icons like Danbot and Muklay, and to hold exhibitions abroad. As trends in art and design evolve, the key to longevity lies in consistency and staying true to one’s creative voice. For Iqbal, the journey is as much about personal expression as it is about inspiring others to pursue their passions, no matter where they begin.