IT’S ALL ABOUT MIMI

Denise Dorrance - 8 May 14

Cartoonist and illustrator Denise Dorrance, introduces us to Mimi; the world’s most selfish mother.

Mimi developed as a character when I came across a fashion photo of a frazzled woman in a business suit, on her mobile, the contents of her Gucci bag spilled at her feet … and a little baby sitting next to the bag. I knew a lot of women like this – juggling work, motherhood and a glam handbag – and thought there’s a lot of humour to be found here.

Coming up with Mimi’s name was easy when you say it like ‘Me Me.’ Most mums struggle a bit adjusting to motherhood, but Mimi doesn’t miss a beat when her baby arrives – he simply fits into her life. In fact, he fits into her handbag and off they go!

One of the first cartoons I did is quintessential Mimi – she’s standing in a large, stylish living room, a small baby’s brick in the middle of an empty floor and she says, “I cannot stand the clutter this child creates!” It’s silly and extreme but tugs at something deep in every mum.

Is there any part of me in Mimi? Well, let’s see… I’m tall and thin, partial to black, have one son… no, nothing like her! While I would say that Mimi’s motherhood style is not ‘Baby knows best’ but ‘Mimi knows best!’, my motto would be more like “Proceed with Caution.” I am also fascinated by families who live in minimalist interiors – where do they put all the crap?

I always envied mums who could ignore their child’s demanding chant, “Mum!…Mum!” and say calmly, ‘Not now, Mummy’s busy, just wait a minute.’ I always seem to jump to the tug on my sleeve. It’s that delicate balance between looking after yourself and giving all you’ve got to your child … I think in the long run, a little bit selfish is healthy.

I took time off from my career in TV when my son was born, and it wasn’t until he was about 3 that we were both ready for new horizons! So he went to nursery and I picked up my pen and started drawing (I had studied Graphic Design at college). Because I could work from home and in my own hours, I found the transition back to work pretty easy. He’s 16 now but I still down tools when he comes home from school – mostly because he wants to be on my computer.

Motherhood is a daily challenge but keep your sense of humour. And a glass of Champagne helps too.

Denise Dorrance

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