From the Gridiron to the Canvas: The Artistic Journey of Brandon Hogan
Growing up in Lexington, North Carolina, Brandon Hogan's path seemed set. A football standout at Lexington Senior High, he was the team's quarterback and captain, a dedicated athlete who understood the value of hard work and putting in "overtime." His love for the game led him to play at Averett University before a transfer to North Carolina Central. While his football career took a different turn, Brandon's dedication to education remained, leading him to complete his degree in engineering technology online. Yet, amidst the world of sports and academics, another passion was quietly taking root—one that would see him trade his helmet for a paintbrush.
Brandon's artistic journey began not in a formal classroom, but in his childhood. Living beside people of different races and cultures, he was exposed to a variety of art styles he had never seen before. These unique images stayed with him. As a child who spent a lot of time by himself, divided between his books and sports, he found a solitary inspiration in the iconic television painter, Bob Ross. The idea that you could create something beautiful with just a few strokes was mesmerizing.
The turning point came when a family friend, Kathleen Danze, noticed his natural talent. She was the first person to truly encourage him, telling him he could "actually be with it." Her words had a profound impact, motivating him to take his art more seriously as an adult. Now, his multicultural background serves as a driving force behind his work. He strives to use his art to bring people together, to create exhibitions that feature and celebrate all races. The ultimate goal, he says, is simply to see people smile.
When Brandon picks up a paintbrush, his emotions guide his hand. He wants his art to evoke a feeling in the viewer, using the interplay of warm and cool colors to create a mood. While he often uses cool tones, a serious topic will inspire him to bring in bold, striking colors. His influences are a mix of both well-known and local artists. He looks to the work of masters like Bob Timberlake for inspiration, admiring the hyper-realistic detail in their pieces. Locally, he follows artists as well appreciating their ability to use art in different ways to inspire others. He draws from all of these sources, trying to take a little bit from each artist he admires to fuel his own growth and push his work toward a more hyper-realistic style.
For Brandon, the deeper meaning behind his art is a testament to his own life. He wants his paintings to tell a story of transformation—of going from a "nobody to somebody." His art is a reminder of where he came from and the journey he's taken. He believes in making people happy through his work and always remembering his roots.
If he were to convince a buyer to purchase one of his pieces, he wouldn't rely on a hard sell. Instead, he would focus on the story behind the art. He explains that each piece is the result of extensive research and effort. He doesn't just want a person to buy a painting; he wants them to learn about it and find a personal connection. He puts a lot of time into the small details and accents within his work, hoping that the viewer will find something in the picture that feels nostalgic or resonates with them on a deep, emotional level. He wants the buyer to feel the same way he did when he was creating it, making the painting's value about more than just a price tag. It's about a shared feeling, a moment in time captured forever on a canvas—a true reflection of the passion and belief that Brandon Hogan pours into every piece.
