Meet Arik Peterson, a father and comic artist. He illustrates comics depicting his journey as a dad. Arik initiated his comic series “Dads Are” upon recognizing fathers’ role as sherpas, shouldering everything for their families.

Arik derives ideas from his children, father, and fellow fathers. Occasionally, he draws inspiration from old photographs or memories. He hones his drawing abilities using a book from the 1940s. His children assist him in creating comics by engaging in coloring, providing feedback, and offering suggestions. Arik takes pleasure in creating comics that amuse and forge connections with people. He shares them online whenever he finds the opportunity.

More: Instagram h/t: boredpanda

“’Dads Are’ started one day when I was schlepping ALL of my family’s luggage through the airport. I was traveling with two kids and a wife. Then it occurred to me… as a dad, I’m a sherpa. From that moment forward I started looking at being a dad a little different.

I started writing ideas while driving to work, or seeing something out in public that sparked an idea. I found myself smiling a lot.” – Arik Peterson