ABSTRACT

The idealized image of mothers in Indonesian culture often creates psychological pressure and affects maternal mental health. This research examines how maternal-themed illustrations on Instagram, particularly those created by Indonesian illustrator Puty Puar, serve as a form of art therapy. Unlike previous studies that focused on fine art, this study emphasizes emotional expression and therapeutic dimensions. Using a descriptive qualitative method, the research analyzes three illustrations uploaded between 2020 and 2025, selected through purposive sampling. These works depict a range of emotions, from nurturing to frustration and guilt, accompanied by captions that articulate the struggles and coping mechanisms of motherhood. Audience responses demonstrate empathy and validation, revealing a shared emotional resonance. The study finds that Instagram serves not only as a platform for personal catharsis and self-actualization for the illustrator but also as a space that fosters solidarity among mothers. This research contributes to interdisciplinary discourse connecting visual art, maternal mental health, and digital media in the Indonesian context.