Nomka Enkhee's Whimsical Cartoons Draw on Cursive Handwriting and Mundane Objects
Nomka Enkhee, an artist from Milwaukee, draws inspiration from her Mongolian heritage to craft whimsical cartoons, particularly influenced by cursive writing. Her characters, characterized by simplicity, often transform and incorporate household items that underscore a sense of absurdity. Engaging with the concept of Schadenfreude, her 'house wifey' figure is depicted grinning at power drills. Enkhee also operates e.s.r books, a playful publishing venture that allows her to delve into lighter subjects, contrasting her fine art. Among her notable projects are the Drawing As Metaphor Series and Listen, there's a horse in my backyard, featuring images attributed to Nomka Enkhee, 2026. Her publisher's website declares, "We make books – books are sculpture," emphasizing her view of everyday items as artistic mediums.
Key facts
- Nomka Enkhee is a Milwaukee-based artist, sculptor, performer and writer.
- She grew up in Mongolia, where handwriting and calligraphy had an immense impact on her.
- Cursive writing especially influenced her drawing style, which features simplistic, almost crude cartoon characters.
- Her drawings incorporate domestic tools, creating an endearing mundanity that highlights quiet absurdism.
- Her work engages Schadenfreude, the German word for joy derived from someone's failure or downfall.
- She runs e.s.r books, a book publishing practice that extends to object designs, furniture and exhibition spaces.
- She cites inspirations including Memphis group designer Nathalie Du Pasquier and director Chantal Akerman.
- Her projects include the Drawing As Metaphor Series and Listen, there's a horse in my backyard, with images credited to 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Nomka Enkhee
- Nathalie Du Pasquier
- Chantal Akerman
- Paul M
Institutions
- e.s.r books
- It's Nice That
- Memphis group
Locations
- Milwaukee
- United States
- Mongolia