Ook Suyantoko is an illustrator based in Tangerang, Indonesia, whose work is inspired by everyday life, casual moments, and a playful, comical style. With experience in picture books, comics, editorial work, and social events, he brings a unique blend of storytelling and nostalgia to his illustrations.

Ook’s style has evolved from an early love of manga to a fusion of American and European comic influences, including Tintin, Asterix & Obelix, Archie, and Casper. Over time, his fascination with vintage comics led him to develop a retro touch in his work, blending classic aesthetics with modern storytelling.

We asked Ook about his art, creative process, and inspirations.

How did you start your journey as an illustrator? Was there a moment or experience that made you realize this was your path?

My journey as an Illustrator started when I was on college in 2004. I won a t-shirt design competition at the National Gallery in Jakarta, Indonesia. Since then, I feel more confident in my artwork illustration. In the same year, I accepted collaboration with my senior to handle a project as an Illustrator for an educational book by a local publisher. I started to become a freelance illustrator for several other projects, including learning CDs for early childhood. In 2005, I tried to be an art teacher in art course and I worked as an art teacher for special needs children for 2 years until 2007.

Then I started switching careers, because in that year, jobs as an illustrator or art teacher in Indonesia were relatively low-paying. Because I was not from a wealthy family, and I had to support my mother, I worked in an office as an HRD staff after graduation. I worked from 2008 until 2024. But actually, in 2020 when the pandemic started, I started to pursue digital illustration, and got my first project back after a 12-year hiatus. I started to be active again as a freelance illustrator. This year I decided to leave my permanent job as an HRD staff and pursue the passion that has always been in me.

Your work combines cartoony and retro influences. How did your style evolve over time?

My illustration style started with manga. The manga style influenced my generation in Indonesia with many Japanese comics and anime. However, I was actually exposed to other comics such as tin-tin, asterix & obelix, arad & maya, famous five, archie, betty & veronica, casper and more. That's why, when I was in college, I often unconsciously followed the illustration style of American & European comics. My illustration style changes quite a lot, but I combined & developed them unintentionally. Since I have a beautiful romance with vintage comics, I then put a retro touch into the lines and ornaments of my illustrations.

How do you find inspiration for your illustrations? Are there specific routines or practices that spark your creativity?

Going outside, working from a coffee shop, sitting in a public park, walking around with my doggies, watching movies/series, and joining the community. I always set myself target to make one illustration everyday – even it not always well done.

You’ve collaborated with publishers, creative agencies, and news media. How do these collaborations influence your work as an artist?

Working with them was an honor for me. As an illustrator in Indonesia, I was competing with many illustrators trying so hard to get projects from them. For us, it can be our exposure and create a good portfolio. Unfortunately, we don't have many creative agencies as well as a supply of illustrators. Only a few news media use illustrators to illustrate their news as an editorial. Local publishers tend to hire illustrators and refuse to use a new style from new illustrators.

Are there any memorable projects or collaborations that you feel particularly proud of? Why do they stand out?

Making children book with BUKUAKU. A local provider for children's books which let me create my own stories and illustrations.

Are there specific artists, movements, or cultural elements that inspire your aesthetic?

Artist: M. Misrad (Benny & Mice Cartoon), Bob Montana, Earl Oliver Hurst, Lo Hartog Van Banda.

What is a profound childhood memory?

Childhood memories that still linger to this day. Such as traditional games, old movies, past events that influence how I create a story idea or character into my illustration.

What is a dream project you’d like to make one day?

Collaboration with a big brand for social movement, created an art course for children who have limited access to art.

Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re excited to share with our readers?

Making a comic strip again! It looks like I have to start creating my own character about the life of an employee in Jakarta. Many twists and challenges are very exciting to visualize…