'Hoggie' offers hope for artists

SANDUSKY — Jordan Evans' latest artwork not only reveals personal tales about his childhood but also strives to establish a new narrative for the youth pursuing art in any capacity. Evans, a 2008 Sandusky High School graduate, intends to release his newest project, "Hoggie's World: Just a Kid, a Canvas and a Dream" on Sunday. He both authored and illustrated the 46-page hardback book. "The story revolves around a kid named Hoggie (pronounced hog-ee), which is me," said Evans, noting he received the nickname "Hoggie" from his cousin, El Nix, who passed away a few years ago but lived in Sandusky. "It has stuck with me throughout my life," said Evans, who now lives in Cleveland. "Hoggie is a young artist who is discovering his talents and putting them to use in the real world, however, the challenge lies in figuring out how to utilize these talents." Honing in on Hoggie For several years now, Evans has found great success in marketing his art and forging forward with his talent. It's occurred through his "Art Jordan" brand. Most notably, in 2022, ESPN's "College GameDay" — the country's top-rated pregame college football show and viewed by millions each week it airs — featured Evans' artwork during its programming. He's also received commissions for various projects in and around Sandusky. This would include him creating Black history artwork for Sandusky Transit bus stops. "His accomplishments in the art world should not only continue to be highlighted but also celebrated, and I'm proud to call him a friend, family and a Sandusky legend because what he's doing is legendary," said Blake Harris, a former city commissioner who serves on the Minority Business Empowerment Team. But it didn't come without challenges for Evans. "Growing up as a creative in a small city, there aren't many examples of how to turn art skills into a profitable lifestyle. I never imagined I could sell art or any type of design to make a living," Evans said. With "Hoggie's World," however, he can provide others with a blueprint for success and, quite possibly, follow in his footsteps. "I felt it would be rewarding to depict my childhood experiences and the process of creating art while also transforming it into a business," Evans said. "Additionally, I wanted to emphasize the importance of having a mentor, regardless of one's success," he added. "Everyone needs guidance to make the right steps in life and improve their circumstances. Thus the inspiration behind this book is to encourage people to persevere through challenges as they are shaping their life stories." The main takeaways So what does Evans want people to understand from his latest work? "I sincerely hope that readers, both young and old, will walk away from this book understanding the importance of mentorships and support for aspiring individuals," he said. "I've learned that, while our imagination may dwindle with age due to life's circumstances, those who nurture it tend to remain youthful." Evans credited friends and family — specifically his mother, Hope English; his father, James Gordon; and others he trusts in his inner circle, like his business partner, Tim Lewis — for their unwavering faith in him. "I'm grateful to my family and team," Evans said. "Without the support I've received over the years, I wouldn't be where I am today — and, for that, I am eternally grateful for my journey." Evans then considered "Hoggie's World" his greatest professional success to date. "I'm thrilled to share 'Hoggie's World' with you all," said Evans, noting he spent "countless hours perfecting this endeavor." "Of all my achievements, this book holds the top spot," said Evans, who would ideally like to turn this written piece into an animated feature. "While working for ESPN was a dream come true, this book is No. 1 because it was built from scratch. It represents my legacy and will catalyze advancing creators and entrepreneurs not only in my generation but also in the future." So what's next for Evans? "Return to Sandusky," he said, "and establish an art studio in downtown." He explained: "With Sandusky's growth, there's tremendous potential for collaboration, and I'm eager to play my part. Who knows: 'Hoggie Goes to Cedar Point' might just be the next big thing." How to buy? Pre-orders for "Hoggie's World" began on April 8, but it's widely available on Sunday, April 28, coinciding with Evans' birthday. It's set for a mass release, soon available at retailers like Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Amazon, BAM Bookstore/Books-A-Million and Target. "Moreover, it will be accessible on over 40,000 platforms, including universities, schools, libraries, overseas and local bookstores nationwide," Evans said. "I plan to organize a book signing soon, and, for suggestions, interested individuals can email me at artjordanceo@gmail.com or reach out on Facebook at Jordan Evans."