‘That book gave me the opportunity to look inside myself – I felt like there was this child-like side, as well as a cynical side’
Hurling may be in Seán Hogan’s blood, but it was while pucking around as a boy that he began to formulate the stories that he now brings to life in his graphic novels
“Life drawing is key. And there was a lot of work — eight hours of drawing a day, nude models, statues. The teachers would see what level you’re at and slowly break you down and teach you what you’re doing wrong." Graphic novelist and animator Seán Hogan
On the face of it, there is little to connect the art of the graphic novel with the sport of hurling, but Seán Hogan’s passion for both was fostered young. Like many of those who grew up loving the game, Hogan spent countless hours pucking the sliotar against the gable end of the family home.
“That’s where I used to create stories in my head,” the Tipperary-born, Helsinki-based artist says. “I’d hit the ball back and forth and ideas would take shape.” He didn’t realise it at the time, but he now knows it was a form of meditation, and it would help foster a career as an animator and graphic novelist.
