What is HustleHard?

HustleHard is a visual expression of the struggle to thrive in less-than-ideal circumstances.

The canvas—leftover scrap cardboard—is analogous to the lives of the archetypical characters presented: overlooked, unglamorous, and rarely taken seriously.

As an art form however, cardboard provides a perfect vehicle for telling these stories. The corrugated surface is sturdy, yet brittle. It can handle a myriad of mediums (paint, pastel, marker, ect.) but without proper, thoughtful care and planning, it will warp and break down. Much like the lives of overlooked people in low-income and crime-ridden communities, the physical elements display a dual-consciousness.

Each “sliver” of cardboard represents a different navigation of life for one of the characters, with the overarching narrative of increasing desperation. The characters shoes, body types, and colors morph throughout the series, and well-attuned viewers may notice a shift in footwear as characters sport the types of shoe brands and styles adjacent to their lifestyle.

The project is ongoing, and will be continuously updated.