<![CDATA[CartoonConnie Comics Blog]]>

<![CDATA[CartoonConnie Comics Blog]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.comhttps://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!IS1o!,w_256,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F4669e04f-b1a6-4dca-bacd-cc708ddf90b4_634x634.pngCartoonConnie Comics Bloghttps://blog.cartoonconnie.comSubstackMon, 15 Jun 2026 16:32:13 GMT<![CDATA[Stay Human]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/stay-humanhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/stay-humanThu, 11 Jun 2026 13:11:00 GMT

6-panel animated comic strip about being resilient and keeping the best qualities of being human in times of uncertainty and destabilizing change. Each panel contains some animation. Each frame is drawn by hand without any use of generative AI. Titled "Stay Human," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie — A 6-panel animated comic strip about keeping the best qualities of being human in times of uncertainty and destabilizing change. Each panel contains some animation. Each frame is drawn by hand without any use of generative AI. Titled "Stay Human," 2026, by Connie Sun.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about what parts of our humanity we can retain in times of uncertainty and destabilizing change. I came up with this list, just as a start.

This week, I also gave myself the challenge of trying to animate the comic panels manually, without the use of any generative AI, which I’ve still never used.

6-panel animated comic strip (black and white), where each panel contains some animation. Each frame is drawn by hand without any use of generative AI. Titled "Stay Human," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie

I’m no animator, but I taught myself draw and color each frame by hand -- no shortcuts. It was labor-intensive, but I got much more out of the exercise than I would have if I outsourced my learning to an algorithm.

Sharing my beginner’s attempt at animation here. It’s clunky, but I’m proud of it because the learning is 100 percent mine.

Here is the original comic.

A 6-panel comic strip about being resilient and keeping the best qualities of being human in times of uncertainty and destabilizing change, titled "Stay Human," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — "Stay Human," 2026, by Connie Sun.

Thanks for reading and being here. Working hard on something new, so I’m online less. Hope to be able to share with you all soon.

Stay proud. Stay human. Be an original.

To new subscribers, thanks for joining! This is where I share new comics, art process and pep talks each week while I work on new projects and my longer graphic novel. You can also find my entire cartoon archive here, all the way back to when I first started teaching myself to draw comics 15 years ago. Against all practical odds, I still haven’t given up the dream.

Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

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]]><![CDATA[City Diary, June 2026]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/city-diary-june-2026https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/city-diary-june-2026Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:15:06 GMT

2 of 6. Illustrated panel from a 2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun, published on blog.cartoonconnie.com

3 of 6. Illustrated panel from a 2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun, published on blog.cartoonconnie.com

4 of 6. Illustrated panel from a 2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun, published on blog.cartoonconnie.com

5 of 6. Illustrated panel from a 2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun, published on blog.cartoonconnie.com

5 of 6. Illustrated panel from a 2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun, published on blog.cartoonconnie.com

6 of 6. Illustrated panel from a 2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun, published on blog.cartoonconnie.com

Some situations call for compassion and others, less so.

Hope you enjoy this week’s diary comic, drawn from memory, because I wanted to remember it. Sometimes riding the subway is aggravating and other times it is a reminder to be less robot and more human.

This is another subway comic I drew in 2014 about being kinder to myself. For many people, this is not an easy task.

Life may not be kind, but we’re all in this together. One step at a time.

Thanks for reading and being here. Working hard on something new, so I’m online less. Hope to be able to share with you all soon.

2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. The comic illustrates the ordeal of going up and down subway stairs with limited mobility and the patience it requires. On the other hand, texting on a phone while holding up stairwell traffic is discouraged. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun, published on blog.cartoonconnie.com — 2-page diary comic about New York City walking etiquette and a brief exchange with a man at a subway station. The comic illustrates the ordeal of going up and down subway stairs with limited mobility and the patience it requires. On the other hand, texting on a phone while holding up stairwell traffic is discouraged. Titled "City Diary," June 2026, by Connie Sun.

To new subscribers, thanks for joining! This is where I share new comics and pep talks each week while I work on new projects and my longer graphic novel. You can also find my entire cartoon archive here, all the way back to when I first started teaching myself to draw comics 15 years ago. Against all practical odds, I still haven’t given up the dream.

Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

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]]><![CDATA[The Temptation of A.I. ]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-temptation-of-aihttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-temptation-of-aiThu, 28 May 2026 12:42:06 GMT

Art description: An illustrated poem about breakneck technological change with generative A.I. and nostalgia for a slower pace of learning. A cartoon girl is playing with colorful building blocks and overcoming the struggles of learning. Titled "Simpler Times Haiku" by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2025. — An illustrated poem about breakneck technological change with generative A.I. and nostalgia for a slower pace of learning. A cartoon girl is playing with colorful building blocks and overcoming the struggles of learning. Titled "Simpler Times Haiku" by Connie Sun, 2025.

This week, I'm sharing an unpublished illustrated poem I drew last year when I started considering what is at stake if we lose our ability to learn and evolve at a human pace. Maybe it's the loss of the kind of slow wisdom that we only come to know in our bones.

I find myself grasping for reassurances these days. So much of the news is plain bad and, for all the billions being spent on the A.I. race, none of it seems to helping make any of the world’s problems better.

I could just say, not my circus, not my monkeys, but the impact of decisions being made on our lives has been real.

Illustrated excerpt from a 4-panel comic strip about weathering anxiety about change and disruption without A.I. chatbots, titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Illustrated excerpt from a 4-panel comic strip about weathering anxiety about change and disruption without A.I. chatbots, titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Illustrated excerpt from a 4-panel comic strip about weathering anxiety about change and disruption without A.I. chatbots, titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Illustrated excerpt from a 4-panel comic strip about weathering anxiety about change and disruption without A.I. chatbots, titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Illustrated excerpt from a 4-panel comic strip about weathering anxiety about change and disruption without A.I. chatbots, titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Illustrated excerpt from a 4-panel comic strip about weathering anxiety about change and disruption without A.I. chatbots, titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

The second comic strip is more recent. Six months after drawing the first one, I’m confronting harsher economic and social realities, as many of us are. The constant flood of change and disruption (to say nothing of the destruction) is overwhelming and a lot to process. It’s tempting to look for easy outs and to “outsource” the hard stuff elsewhere or to the machines.

Or maybe...to be human, to err and to learn, is the most important thing we can do right now.

Art description: Excerpt from a 2-panel illustration of an elephant napping and a girl with a bun seeking comfort and reassurance that things will be okay. Titled "Rest Before Worry" by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2023.

Art description: Excerpt from a 2-panel illustration of an elephant napping and a girl with a bun seeking comfort and reassurance that things will be okay. Titled "Rest Before Worry" by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2023. — A 2-panel illustration of an elephant napping and a girl with a bun seeking comfort and reassurance that things will be okay. Titled "Rest Before Worry" by Connie Sun, 2023.

I don’t have the answers, I’m just living through it, as we all are. I believe it’s important that we take care of ourselves and each other.

“Rest before worry” is what I tell myself; otherwise, I will not have the strength to do the work. And none of us are machines.

Thanks for reading, for your humanity, and for being here.

Art description: A 4-panel comic strip about the anxiety and overwhelm of having to deal with a flood of change and disruption all at once and the impulse to take the easy way out and have A.I. do the real work for us. A cartoon girl shares her anxieties with an elephant. Titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — A 4-panel comic strip about the anxiety and overwhelm of having to deal with a flood of change and disruption all at once and the impulse to take the easy way out and have A.I. do the real work for us. A cartoon girl shares her anxieties with an elephant. Titled "The Temptation of A.I." by Connie Sun, 2026.

To new subscribers, thanks for joining! This is where I share new comics and pep talks each week while I work on new projects and my longer graphic novel. You can also find my entire cartoon archive here, all the way back to when I first started teaching myself to draw comics 15 years ago. Against all practical odds, I still haven’t given up the dream.

Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

Share CartoonConnie Comics Blog

]]><![CDATA[Dogs I Have Known]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/dogs-i-have-knownhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/dogs-i-have-knownThu, 21 May 2026 13:05:29 GMT

Art description: A 5-image borderless diary comic about trying to befriend dogs at the gym. Titled "Shy with Dogs," 2019, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Borderless diary comic about a girl trying to befriend dogs at the gym. Titled "Shy with Dogs," 2019, by Connie Sun.

I’ve never had a dog before and I’m not a gifted dog communicator, but I still try to learn their language the best I can.

Animal drawings still fill my sketchbooks. When humans perplex me, I find some comfort in knowing that we’re not the only ones on the planet.

Here is a batch of cartoons of a few dogs I’ve met and drawn over the years.

A single-image illustration with text of a lonely girl with a bun saying hello to an extroverted dog. Titled "Lonely Days," 2020, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — A single-image illustration with text of a lonely girl with a bun saying hello to an extroverted dog. Titled "Lonely Days," 2020, by Connie Sun.

A single-image illustration of a girl trying to befriend an introverted dog with a Hawaiian shirt on. Titled "Befriending Dogs," 2022, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — A single-image illustration of a girl trying to befriend an introverted dog with a Hawaiian shirt on. Titled "Befriending Dogs," 2022, by Connie Sun.

A cartoon girl with a face mask says hi to a Dalmation dog in a firetruck by waving her hair braid like a tail. Titled "Cutest First Responder," 2022, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Illustration of girl saying hi to a Dalmation dog in a firetruck by waving her hair braid like a tail. Titled "Cutest First Responder," 2022, by Connie Sun.

Illustration of a climber girl with a small dog sitting on her lap. Titled "For Sarang," 2019, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Illustration of a climber girl with a small dog sitting on her lap. Titled "For Sarang," 2019, by Connie Sun.

Hope you’re keeping busy and finding comfort and sanity in your daily life, no matter how crazy things get.

Working on a new project that I hope to share soon.

Thanks for reading and being here.

To new subscribers, thanks for joining! This is where I share new comics and pep talks each week while I work on new projects and my longer graphic novel. You can also find my entire cartoon archive here, all the way back to when I first started teaching myself to draw comics 15 years ago. Against all practical odds, I still haven’t given up the dream.

Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

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]]><![CDATA[All My Mistakes]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/all-my-mistakeshttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/all-my-mistakesWed, 13 May 2026 13:44:28 GMT

Panel 1 of a 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique and give us style. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 2 of a 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique and give us style. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 3 of a 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique and give us style. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 4 of a 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique and give us style. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique and give us style. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique and give us style. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique and give us style. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

This has not been an easy time. I’ve had some setbacks lately, but I’m taking things a step at a time and doing my best to keep moving forward.

This week, I took the most positive thought I had and made a cartoon out of it. That’s something.

I’m also working on something fun that I’m excited to share soon.

In the meantime, here is one of my daily comic strips from 2015. It's a staple pep talk I often revisit as needed.

Thanks for reading and being here. Hope you are also finding validation in the all the cumulative life experiences that make you who you are.

6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun bemoaning her mistakes to an elephant, who comforts her and tells her, "All your flaws give you style." She later uses that thought to make art. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: 6-panel comic strip about our mistakes and imperfections and how they make us unique. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun bemoaning her mistakes to an elephant, who comforts her and tells her, "All your flaws give you style." She later uses that thought to make art. Titled "All My Mistakes," 2026, by Connie Sun

To new subscribers, thanks for joining! This is where I share new comics and pep talks each week while I work on new projects and my longer graphic novel. You can also find my entire cartoon archive here, all the way back to when I first started teaching myself to draw comics 15 years ago. Against all practical odds, I still haven’t given up the dream.

Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

Share CartoonConnie Comics Blog

]]><![CDATA[Bageltown, Fishbowl Diplomacy, and Call My A.I.]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/bageltown-fishbowl-diplomacy-andhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/bageltown-fishbowl-diplomacy-andThu, 07 May 2026 13:00:06 GMT

Single panel gag cartoon of a woman with an egregious bagel order. Titled "Bageltown," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: Single panel gag cartoon of a woman with an egregious bagel order. Titled "Bageltown," 2026, by Connie Sun.

I’m recovering from a minor procedure this week and thought I’d share some recent gag cartoons I drew for some needed levity. This is a different style from the personal comics that I’ve been sharing.

Art description 2: Single panel gag cartoon about how goldfish conduct diplomacy in a fishbowl. Titled "Fishbowl Diplomacy," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: Single panel gag cartoon about how goldfish conduct diplomacy in a fishbowl. Titled "Fishbowl Diplomacy," 2026, by Connie Sun.

Sometimes I wish I had a more consistent style of work, but I also believe in constantly growing, evolving, and exploring new ways to make art.

One of my favorite quotes is from the late comedian George Carlin, who once said this in an interview:

“An artist has an obligation to be enroute — to be going somewhere. There’s a journey involved. You don’t know where it is - and that’s the fun.”

As I work on longer projects, I’ve kept this blog as a safe space for me to play, experiment, and keep making art no matter what. A lot about my life has changed since I began cartooning, but I’m glad I kept going and haven’t given up.

I’ve still never used generative A.I. It’s kind of a social experiment at this point. But I am paying attention to how it’s changing people’s behavior around me.

Art description 3: Single panel gag cartoon of a tech bro outsourcing his job to his A.I. assistant while on a leisurely coffee break. Titled "Call My A.I." 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: Single panel gag cartoon of a tech bro outsourcing his job to his A.I. assistant while on a leisurely coffee break. Titled "Call My A.I." 2026, by Connie Sun.

For all of its bells and whistles, I don’t think A.I. can touch what matters most to me about the creative process, in all of its human-made inefficiency.

Thank you for reading and being along for the journey. I have some fun things in the works — stay tuned!

To new subscribers, thanks for joining! This is where I share new comics each week, while I work on new projects and my longer graphic novel. You can also find my entire cartoon archive here, all the way back to when I first started teaching myself to draw comics 15 years ago. Against all practical odds, I still haven’t given up the dream.

Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

Share CartoonConnie Comics Blog

]]><![CDATA[Artist Perseverance]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/artist-perseverancehttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/artist-perseveranceThu, 30 Apr 2026 13:00:02 GMT

Panel 1 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 2 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 3 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 4 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic showing a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: 6-panel comic about the process of creating art and overcoming perfectionism. The panels illustrate a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. In the last panel, she dips a roller in a bucket of white-out and begins the editing process. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun.

I love coming up with ideas. That’s my favorite part of the creative process, even when it’s messy.

Over the years, I’ve gotten less hung up on perfection and I’ve even grown to love the wildness of ideas that aren’t formed yet. They are full of possibility and potential.

That’s only part of creating though. I’m less practiced with editing ideas to get them to a finished stage. My sketchbooks and journals and full of ideas that need more work.

Longer projects, like the book I’m writing, are even more challenging. Today’s cartoon is basically a metaphor for my writing process. I have years of work and research under my belt, multiple drafts, and — much more editing and honing to do.

It’s getting closer — but pushing toward “a finish” is harder than I ever imagined.

This is a cartoon sketch I drew from 2011 - No. 10 of my daily sketchbook “status messages” that started my journey as a cartoonist. That’s when I decided I would stop making excuses and just make art everyday, no matter how small.

At the time, I was working full-time at Columbia University and I promised myself I would draw something every morning before work and blog it, no matter how good or bad. I kept it up for 8 years, before I scaled back daily posts to learn new skills. I haven’t quit — I still draw everyday, but I don’t need to post everyday to stay motivated.

The Tina Fey quote that inspired that 2011 drawing of cartoon me trying to white-out an absurd amount of spilled ink still rings true: “There are no mistakes, only opportunities.”

I’m learning to embrace the “mistakes” that got me here and will get me to where I want to go. Thankfully, I have a healthier mindset than I did in 2011. I also keep a more realistic amount of white-out.

Thanks for reading and being here. May we have infinite opportunities to learn and grow.

Art description: 6-panel comic about the process of creating art and overcoming perfectionism. The panels illustrate a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. In the last panel, she dips a roller in a bucket of white-out and begins the editing process. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: 6-panel comic about the process of creating art and overcoming perfectionism. The panels illustrate a cartoon figure trying to capture an idea an artist easel and feeling like a failure when it doesn't live up to what she imagined. In the last panel, she dips a roller in a bucket of white-out and begins the editing process. Titled "Artist Perseverance," 2026, by Connie Sun.

Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

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]]><![CDATA[Small New York Moments]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/small-new-york-momentshttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/small-new-york-momentsThu, 23 Apr 2026 13:02:11 GMT

Panel 1 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 2 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 3 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 4 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. The panels illustrate a few quirky details she noticed about individual New Yorkers. The comic ends with her saluting the now-famous "Giant Pigeon" sculpture, an homage to NYC style. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun.

I love the high-octane, unapologetic individuality of New Yorkers. Even in the small moments, it’s never boring. This week, I turned some sketchbook drawings from memory and life into a small comic strip homage.

Even though a lot feels broken in the world, there’s a lot that keeps going, like trains and every one of us.

Even if we can’t fix everything, we can still do small things to make things a little better everyday.

Shout out to friends Onyx and Malik (in panel 4) for their amazing fashion choices on Tuesday, which made me very happy.

To new subscribers, thanks for joining! This is where I share a new comic strip each week, while I continue to work on my longer graphic novel project. You can also find my entire cartoon archive here, all the way back to when I first started teaching myself to draw comics 15 years ago. Against all practical odds, I still haven’t given up the dream.

Thanks for reading and being here!

Art description: 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. The panels illustrate a few quirky details she noticed about individual New Yorkers from riding the subway the day before. The comic ends with her saluting the now-famous "Giant Pigeon" sculpture, an homage to NYC style. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — 6-panel diary comic with small scenes from New York City, drawn from memory by the artist. The panels illustrate a few quirky details she noticed about individual New Yorkers. The comic ends with her saluting the now-famous "Giant Pigeon" sculpture, an homage to NYC style. Titled "Small New York," 2026, by Connie Sun.

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Ways to support this independent publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram. Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

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]]><![CDATA[The Things We Stock Up On]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-things-we-stock-up-onhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-things-we-stock-up-onThu, 16 Apr 2026 14:16:38 GMT

Panel 1 of a 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 2 of a 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 4 of a 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun.

This week, I had the impulse to act on my anxieties and prepare for the worst. What do I need to live? Non-perishable foods and consumer staples? Or do I follow my default impulses? I noticed how my brain reaches for odd comforts that are not entirely practical. Maybe even frivolous. They did feel essential to me in the moment.

Illustration of a cartoon girl with a bun, feeding an elephant from a basket of food. By Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

I don’t mean to make light of anything that is happening. I’m just noticing quirks of my own psychology and asking myself what impulses I should listen to or quell.

That said, I did buy more ink to refill my pens with so that I don’t run out. Frivolous? An odd fixation? Maybe. But it did bring me a momentary sense of comfort and relief.

Sketchbook drawing of a fountain pen and ink, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — Sketchbook drawing of pen and ink, by Connie Sun, 2026.

I imagine we all have our own ways that we’re dealing. Wishing you everything you need and some extra comforts too.

Thanks for reading and being here.

Art Description: 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. In the last panel, they find that their priorities differ. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art Description: 6-panel comic about the weird things we stock up on in times of uncertainty and scarcity. The panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant about insecurity leading to an impulse to panic-buy strange things. In the last panel, they find that their priorities differ. Titled "The Things We Stock Up On," 2026, by Connie Sun.

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]]><![CDATA[Small Steps]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/small-stepshttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/small-stepsThu, 09 Apr 2026 12:08:34 GMT

Art description: 4-panel comic about managing fears and anxieties and tackling one thing at a time. A cartoon figure carrying a backpack is overwhelmed and facing a daunting climb and endless steps in front of her. All she can do is focus on one step at a time. In the last panel, she starts going up the steps, one by one. Titled "Small Steps," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: 4-panel comic about managing fears and anxieties and tackling one thing at a time. A cartoon figure carrying a backpack is overwhelmed and facing a daunting climb and endless steps in front of her. All she can do is focus on one step at a time. In the last panel, she starts going up the steps, one by one. Titled "Small Steps," 2026, by Connie Sun.

I drew this comic for some encouragement. I need a little push to get through the week. Hope it gets easier, but regardless, all I can do is one thing at a time. Some days, every step is monumental.

Hope you're carrying on too. Take care of yourself and thanks for reading.

Here’s a bear hug from 2013 if you need one.

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]]><![CDATA[Earthset Over The Moon]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/earthset-over-the-moonhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/earthset-over-the-moonTue, 07 Apr 2026 18:56:40 GMT

Art description: 2-panel comic with an artist drawing of an "Earthset" over the Moon, based on a NASA photo taken by the crew of Artemis II on April 6, 2026 during their lunar flyby mission. The second panel contains a simple line drawing of a girl with a bun showing the photo on her phone to an elephant. Titled "Earthset over the Moon," 2026, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: 2-panel comic with an artist drawing of an "Earthset" over the Moon, based on a NASA photo taken by the crew of Artemis II on April 6, 2026 during their lunar flyby mission. The second panel contains a simple line drawing of a girl with a bun showing the photo on her phone to an elephant. Titled "Earthset over the Moon," 2026, by Connie Sun.

I drew this because I’m feeling awe-inspired by the photos captured yesterday by the crew of the Artemis II. The image of the Earthset is especially breathtaking and some welcome perspective of the planet in the first half of 2026.

You can view the official mission gallery here: https://www.nasa.gov/gallery/lunar-flyby/

Thanks for reading and have a good week. Stay well and stay inspired.

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]]><![CDATA[All In An Introvert Day's Work]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/all-in-an-introvert-days-workhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/all-in-an-introvert-days-workThu, 02 Apr 2026 14:24:03 GMT

Panel 1 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 2 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 3 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 4 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — Art description: 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. The panels illustrate a cartoon figure with a hard hat and headlamp, rooting through piles of rock in a dark cave, looking for some inspiration to get through the day. An elephant observes and suggests she go outside and look. Stubbornly, she continues to look in the cave. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026, by Connie Sun.

I have the tendency to be conflict-avoidant and easily overwhelmed by people arguing and fighting around me. It stresses me out and I don’t like how being in conflict with others brings out my worst qualities by default, like high emotion and black-and-white thinking.

Avoidance doesn’t solve a lot of problems though and the elephant in today’s comic has a point. I can’t really hole up in a cave and not face the world, no matter how much fighting is going.

Maybe some moderation is in order for introverts though, to preserve sanity. Staying sane is no easy task in the world we live in.

Thanks for reading and being here.

Art description: 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. The panels illustrate a cartoon figure with a hard hat and headlamp, rooting through piles of rock in a dark cave, looking for some inspiration to get through the day. An elephant observes and suggests she go outside and look. Stubbornly, she continues to look in the cave. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie — 6-panel comic strip about an introvert looking for hope in dark times. Titled "All In An Introvert Day's Work," 2026, by Connie Sun.

Ways to support this publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram.
Art prints and gifts are available in my shop.

screenshot of "subway animals" illustrated tote and "elephant friend" graphic tee from cartoonconnie giftshop — Prints and gifts available on cartoonconnie.com/shop

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]]><![CDATA[A Snail's Pace]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/a-snails-pacehttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/a-snails-paceThu, 26 Mar 2026 13:10:31 GMT

Panel 1 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 2 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 3 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 4 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long and arduous the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

If I do an honest assessment of how I’m doing on my book project, it’s plenty discouraging. It is taking years longer than I ever imagined it would at the start of my journey.

I have had so much to learn about myself, the craft, and the process. If I knew how unbelievably hard it would be be, I probably wouldn’t have started.

Yet, I’m still at it. That’s the work; it’s lonely and plodding with no guarantees. There are days of inspired clarity and many more days when writing is like hiking in mud. My only options are: keep going or give up.

As for progress, I can report that I’m better at slogging through mud. Despite the struggles, I’ve managed to cover a lot of ground over time. No shortcuts.

That’s the gift of not using A.I. All the work I put in is my own. It’s in my bones.

One day, I’ll be able to discuss in detail what I’ve had to do and learn along the way, but for now, I’ll keep writing and revising until I’m there.

Thanks for reading and being here, in spite of all.

6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long the process can be. The panels illustrate a conversation with the artist, cartooned as an anatomically correct snail, until the last panel where she appears with her trademark hair bun at a writing desk. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — 6-panel autobio comic strip about the challenges of writing a book and how long the process can be. Titled "A Snail's Pace," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun.

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]]><![CDATA[Elephant Joy]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/elephant-joyhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/elephant-joyThu, 19 Mar 2026 12:32:00 GMT

Panel 1 of a 3-panel motivational comic strip illustrating the power of doing more of what brings you joy, like making art. Titled "Elephant Joy," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun

Panel 2 of a 3-panel motivational comic strip illustrating the power of doing more of what brings you joy, like making art. Titled "Elephant Joy," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun

Panel 3 of a 3-panel motivational comic strip illustrating the power of doing more of what brings you joy, like making art. Titled "Elephant Joy," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun

Just a short reminder this week! I have to keep reminding myself to not neglect the things that bring me joy. I’ve had my share of anxiety spirals lately, but what calms me when I’m down is going back to the basics of what makes me happy.

The pressures of life often distract us from the pursuit of our joys. In the face of everything, letting ourselves be happy can seem frivolous and unessential. It can almost feel like a social competition to see who is the most unhappy these days.

But I think giving ourselves permission to be happy is part of the work of keeping hope alive. I learned this from my dear friend Bridget, who was a source a joy for everyone who knew her during her too-brief time here.

Re-sharing a cartoon reflection from 2024.

We don’t live in a perfect world, but I wish you safe and I wish you joy.

Thanks for reading and being here.

3-panel motivational comic strip illustrating the power of doing more of what brings you joy, like making art. The panels show a cartoon girl with a bun drawing and elephant and seeing it come to life. The characters hug in the final panel that contains an affirmation. Titled "Elephant Joy," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie. — 3-panel motivational comic strip illustrating the power of doing more of what brings you joy, like making art. The panels show a cartoon girl with a bun drawing and elephant and seeing it come to life. The characters hug in the final panel that contains an affirmation. Titled "Elephant Joy," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun.

🎈 Art prints are available in my shop. Today’s comic is available as a print. To request prints of my cartoons, you can reach me at connie at cartoonconnie dot com.

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]]><![CDATA[The World We Live In]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-world-we-live-inhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-world-we-live-inThu, 12 Mar 2026 13:54:52 GMT

Panel 1 of a 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 2 of a 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 3 of a 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 4 of a 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 5 of a 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 6 of a 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 7 of a 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie.

Panel 8 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. The last panel is commentary on current events. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun. — 8-panel autobiographical comic strip about the artist's experience with therapy and how much she resisted getting mental health support when she was younger. The last panel is commentary on current events. Titled "The World We Live In," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun.

This is a true story and we’re living through it.

Thank you for reading. Be safe and may we soon live in chiller times.

Single panel illustration of a girl with a braid sitting in meditation. Her mantra is a wish to live in "boring times," as opposed to "interesting." Original drawing by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, originally published 2021. — Single panel illustration of a girl with a braid sitting in meditation. Her mantra is a wish to live in "boring times," as opposed to "interesting." Original drawing by Connie Sun, originally published 2021.

🎈 Art prints are available in my shop. To request prints of my cartoons, you can reach me at connie at cartoonconnie dot com.

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]]><![CDATA[Living Through History]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/living-through-historyhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/living-through-historyThu, 05 Mar 2026 14:33:29 GMT

Two-page comic illustrating a humorous, introspective conversation between a cartoon girl with a bun and an elephant companion about the discomfort of living through destructive events in history, like war and unrest. She pontificates on how messy everything becomes when conflicts spread to daily life, while the elephant simplifies her over-complicated way of thinking and communicating. Titled "Living Through History," 11 comic panels, original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — 2-page comic illustrating an introspective conversation between a girl with a bun and an elephant companion about the discomfort of living through conflict, while the elephant simplifies her over-complicated way of thinking. Titled "Living Through History," 11 comic panels, original art by Connie Sun, 2026.

My brain likes to overthink, but I manage it with my cartooning habit to make life more tolerable for myself and those around me. Elephant gets the brunt of it, but she has a sense of humor about it.

Resharing another cartoon I drew in 2016 to comfort myself through my anxiety. In hindsight, it was just the beginning of uncertain times, but we survived. We’re still here. We are stronger than we think.

4-panel comic illustrating cross-species friendships between giraffes, squirrels, monkeys, doves, horses, and elephants, with messages of comfort and safety in uncertain times. Titled "In Uncertain Times (AKA Life)." Ink and color pencil on paper, by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2016. Originally published on conniewonnie.com — 4-panel comic illustrating cross-species friendships between different animals, with messages of comfort and safety in uncertain times. Titled "In Uncertain Times (AKA Life)." Ink and color pencil on paper, by Connie Sun, 2016. Originally published on conniewonnie.com

Hope you are safe and coping okay. These are not the most peaceful of times, but I hope we can find our way through it together.

Thanks for reading and being here.

🎈 Art prints are available in my shop. To request prints of my cartoons, you can reach me at connie at cartoonconnie dot com.

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]]><![CDATA[New Normal]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/new-normalhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/new-normalThu, 26 Feb 2026 15:00:23 GMT

Title illustration of a 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 1 of a 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 2 of a 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 3 of a 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 4 of a 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 5 of a 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 6 of a 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

I couldn’t wait to share this comic with you. I had fun writing it.

I don’t actually have a terminal of screens and monitors, but it often feels that way, with the constant barrage of sensory inputs we’re bombarded with everyday.

Are we the ones in control? Sometimes, I’m not so sure.

Art description: Humorous 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. A cartoon girl with a bun starts out in a state of information and sensory overload and proceeds to list the ways she stays in control of her time and attention, with a twist at the end. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — Art description: Humorous 6-panel comic about the new normal of A.I. and technology in modern life. Titled "New Normal," original art by Connie Sun, 2026.

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Earlier in the week, a late winter blizzard dropped 20 inches of snow on New York City. I dug up a few of my early snow cartoons (from 2013, 2016, and 2017). As a Southern California transplant, the last blizzard I remember was in 2016!

Hope spring brings us hope, renewal, and more time away from our screens.

Thanks for reading and being here, given everything else you could be doing!

🎈 Art prints are available in my shop! To request prints of my cartoons, you can reach me at connie at cartoonconnie dot com.

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]]><![CDATA[The Attention Span of Modern Humans]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-attention-span-of-modern-humanshttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/the-attention-span-of-modern-humansThu, 19 Feb 2026 15:16:17 GMT

I’ve been breaking a lot of my personal rules around phone use lately.

One of my mainstays was once, “No walking and texting.” Sadly, I’ve been in breach of contract a lot. I’m noticing how activities that were once technology free are now so often unnecessarily interrupted. I pay much less attention and notice less about the details of life and those immediately around me.

This is a loss, I think. I drew this comic from memory, observed from a couple brief moments when I wasn’t looking at my phone. And then, I looked at my phone and the moment ended. Alas.

In reflection, I want some of my attention span back. I want to notice life as it is happening. I don’t want to sleepwalk through how much modern technologies interrupt the moments that make us more human.

Thanks for pausing to read this and pardon the interruption.

Do you have technology rules for yourself too? What are some strategies you use to reclaim your time and attention?

Art description: Humorous 5-panel comic strip about smart phone addiction and how it impacts human attention spans. Panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun observing activities in daily life that compete with smart phones for our undivided attention, like reading a book, walking a dog, or just plain walking. Titled "The Attention Span of Modern Humans." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — Art description: 5-panel comic strip about smart phone addiction and how it impacts human attention spans. Panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun observing activities in daily life that compete with smart phones for our undivided attention, like reading a book, walking a dog, or just plain walking. Titled "The Attention Span of Modern Humans." Original art by Connie Sun, 2026.

🎈 New art prints are available in my shop! To request prints of my cartoons, you can reach me at connie at cartoonconnie dot com.

Ways to support this publication: Subscribe to once-a-week posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram

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]]><![CDATA[Happy Year of the Horse]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/happy-year-of-the-horsehttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/happy-year-of-the-horseTue, 17 Feb 2026 14:33:10 GMT

Art description: 3-panel comic celebrating the Year of the Horse and the Lunar New Year. Panels illustrate a horse galloping full speed ahead, followed by an elephant and a cartoon girl with a bun trying to keep up with the horse. All are adorned in red for good luck. Original artwork by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — 3-panel comic celebrating the Year of the Horse and Lunar New Year. Panels illustrate a horse galloping full speed ahead, followed by an elephant and a cartoon girl with a bun trying to keep up with the horse. All are adorned in red for good luck. Original artwork by Connie Sun, 2026.

Happy Lunar New Year! I drew a special edition cartoon this week to spread some extra blessings around.

Lunar New Year celebrations mark the beginning of Spring Festival, the end of a long winter and the return of new life in spring. There’s still snow on the ground here in New York, but it’s melting. The days are getting longer and soon we’ll see new leaves come in and flowers in bloom.

Wishing you a dynamic Year of the Fire Horse, full of new life, pursuits, and opportunities.

Thanks, as always, for reading and being here.

🎈 New art prints are available in my shop! To request prints of my cartoons, you can reach me at connie at cartoonconnie dot com.

Art print of a 4-panel comic strip about making time for who and what you love. Panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant, who she wishes she could spend more time with. The elephant grants permission; life is simplified. Titled "Making Time For What You Love," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — New art prints available at cartoonconnie.com/shop

Ways to support this publication: Subscribe to weekly posts, Share with a friend, Support CartoonConnie on Ko-fi, Follow on Substack or Instagram

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]]><![CDATA[A Valentine To My Younger Self]]>https://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/a-valentine-to-my-younger-selfhttps://blog.cartoonconnie.com/p/a-valentine-to-my-younger-selfThu, 12 Feb 2026 14:35:51 GMT

Title illustration from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 1 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 2 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 2 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 3 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 4 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 5 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 5 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

Panel 6 from a 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself, titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self." Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026.

This week, I’m sharing two comic strips that I drew to remind myself of the love I have in my life.

In the first comic, I wrote my younger self a Valentine and gave her a hug that she definitely needed.

In the second, I gave myself permission to make time for what I love, whether it’s drawing or climbing or making food or being with loved ones.

4-panel comic strip about making time for who and what you love. Panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant, who she wishes she could spend more time with. The elephant grants permission; life is simplified. Titled "Making Time For What You Love," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — 4-panel comic strip about making time for who and what you love. Panels illustrate a cartoon girl with a bun talking to an elephant, who she wishes she could spend more time with. The elephant grants permission; life is simplified. Titled "Making Time For What You Love," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun.

Life is complicated enough as it is. Some things can still be uncomplicated.

Wherever you are, may your days be lighter, with extra room for everything and everyone you love.

Thanks, as always, for reading and being here.

6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself for all your mistakes and faults and being secure in the knowledge that love, like energy, is never lost. Panels illustrate a cartoon figure talking to her younger self and giving her a hug. Titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun, cartoonconnie, 2026. — 6-panel comic strip about forgiving yourself and loving yourself. Panels illustrate a cartoon figure talking to her younger self and giving her a hug. Titled "A Valentine To My Younger Self," 2026. Original art by Connie Sun.

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