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Life is incredibly complex, and sometimes, the best way to see the light in the tunnel of challenges is through wit.

Adriana Manhattan illustrates various relatable inner thoughts with a dash of self-deprecating humor. As the artist shared herself, her work "is all about baring my soul and embracing honesty. I draw inspiration from everyday life, finding humor in the overlap of those struggling, awkward, and truthful moments of life. Where vulnerability and reality meet, there’s always something relatable, and often hilarious, to uncover."

Scroll down below to see if any of these illustrations resonate with you too!

More info: Instagram | ko-fi.com

In an interview with Bored Panda, Adriana shared what has changed since we were last in contact with her.

“A lot has changed, but the biggest milestone was finally completing my PhD thesis. It’s been a long, grueling journey filled with dedication and an absurd number of words! Now that it’s behind me, I feel like I finally have the freedom to let my creativity flow and dive into new projects. It’s like an exciting new chapter—pun absolutely intended!” wrote Adriana.

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    #2

    Illustrated irony: speech bubble asks, "Is it a good time to talk?" with reply, "No :(" in a smaller bubble.

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    Lotekguy
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The "we" part of "we need to talk " is rarely accurate... unless they're using the royal "we".

    #3

    PhD standing on person, illustrating irony and pressure in academia.

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    Andrew Keir
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    What they often mean is, "Is this a good time for you to listen?"

    We were wondering what a typical day’s like for her when she’s working on a new comic.

    Adriana responded: “For me, every comic begins with writing. Crafting a good joke is like searching for a good balance of wit, humor, and genuine connection. As I write, I can imagine the characters’ faces, gestures, and speech bubbles coming to life, even before sketching. Then I start to sketch, paired with a cup of coffee and some good tunes. So, it’s a fluid process where words and lines come together, transforming an idea into a simple figure that somehow manages to express everything I want to say.”

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    #5

    Illustration of a bird singing with irony; others don't hear it, highlighting real-life ironies.

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    Adriana also shared whether she has ever scrapped an idea after starting working on it.

    The artist wrote: “There are times I hesitate to share an idea because it feels too personal, like an inside joke only I would get. And honestly, some of my published comics feel that way too! But those quirky, deeply personal comics are part of my storytelling, and I think they add a unique layer to my work.”

    #6

    Comic illustration of speech bubbles depicting real-life irony about anger and intensity.

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    Andrew Keir
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Though there will come a time when you can put away your anger and walk free of it

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    When it comes to a reader's response that really made an impact, Adriana shared: “I once received a message from a reader who was going through a tough breakup. She told me she took breaks from work to check my comics and unwind. It made me realize that I don’t just connect with people through my story but also through theirs—the shared pain, struggles, and feelings we all experience. It was a beautiful feeling to know that my work could offer comfort to others, inspiring me to keep creating and sharing.”

    #8

    Cartoon character excitedly shares irony of getting a smile, highlighted on Unrequited Love TV.

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    Lastly, Adriana added: “If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to begin your creative journey, consider this your sign. Start now. The beauty of storytelling lies in its simplicity. You don’t need fancy tools or perfect conditions. A pen, a piece of paper, and your unique voice are enough. Sometimes the simplest tools are the most powerful.”

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    #10

    Comic illustrating irony of wanting a dog years ago and now wanting a man, with "dog" crossed out humorously.

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    #12

    Comic-style illustration depicting real-life ironies with phrases like "high maintenance," "grad school," and "dating apps."

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    #14

    Cartoon characters discuss real-life ironies, highlighting misunderstandings in relationships with humorous dialogue bubbles.

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    Andrew Keir
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    It's *her* life; to make *her* mistakes in; and learn from them. And, maybe she sees more in him than you do, because there's more to be seen?

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    #15

    Cartoon illustrating irony with one character expressing confusion over causing misery.

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    Andrew Keir
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Everyone would benefit from a mirror, to see themselves in action, and a wall, to hear the echoes of their own voice (and to hang th4e mirror on)

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    #18

    Cartoon illustrating a humorous and ironic sleep cycle with anxious pillow expressions.

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    #21

    Flowchart illustrating real-life ironies by artist Adriana, focusing on civility in different seating scenarios.

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    #24

    Cartoon illustrating irony with a Santa character saying "Ho ho ho!" and another character responding "Oh no!".

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    #26

    Cartoon illustrating real-life ironies with three characters showing dating options: multi-dating, casual sex, and loneliness.

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    Andrew Keir
    Community Member
    2 weeks ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Are theses options, or the thoughts of the same guy at different times?

    #28

    Comic illustration showing real-life irony with two characters, one complimenting and the other seeming indifferent.

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    Kitty 🥀
    Community Member
    1 week ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Gentlemen, take heed. Sometimes it’s best to just not say anything at all. Don’t engage. Don’t confuse her, get her hopes up, and dash them. (This goes for us ladies, too, by the way! It’s great to have guy friends, but don’t say flirty things to get their hopes up.)

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    #32

    Comic illustrating ironic conversation between a phone and a showerhead, highlighting real-life issues.

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    #33

    Illustration of characters humorously discussing an ironic question, highlighting real-life issues.

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    #34

    Cartoon illustrating irony: "You vs. the guy she told you not to worry about," with two cartoon characters.

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    #35

    Two friends humorously discuss dating, illustrating real-life ironies and issues.

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    #36

    Illustration of a smiling character, arms wide, with ironic text about life's unpredictability by an artist.

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    #37

    Cartoon coffee cup and glass of ice illustrate real-life irony with humorous dialogue about boiling and drama.

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    #38

    Comic illustration of two characters discussing ruin with irony; one says "Next?" after ruining something.

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    #39

    Illustration of a humorous conversation about video calling, reflecting real-life ironies.

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