As a Minnesota artist, I have always appreciated sports, not only for the competition, but for the stories behind them. Hockey in particular carries a strong sense of tradition, toughness, and community. With USA Hockey recently celebrating Olympic gold, the game is once again at the center of national conversation. For many of us, however, hockey has always been part of who we are.
One film that continues to stand out to me is Slap Shot. The movie has become a cult classic in sports culture, known for its humor and its unfiltered portrayal of old-time hockey.
What makes the film especially meaningful to me is the hometown connection. Professional hockey players Steve Carlson and Jeff Carlson, along with Dave Hanson standing in for their brother Jack, brought the unforgettable Hanson Brothers to life. Knowing that players from my own community became part of such an iconic hockey film adds a deeper layer of appreciation.
After having the opportunity to connect with Steve Carlson, I began considering how I might honor both the film and that hometown legacy through my own work. As a pen and ink artist, I am drawn to strong expressions and distinctive character. The Hanson Brothers offered both.
That idea became Old-Time Hockey, a detailed pen and ink illustration capturing the likeness and personality of the Hanson Brothers. My goal was not simply to create a portrait, but to create hockey artwork that reflects the grit, humor, and cultural impact that made those characters unforgettable.
When the piece was completed, I was honored to learn it would be displayed in the Slap Shot Gallery inside First Summit Arena in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, the original filming location of the movie. To have my hockey illustration included in a space that continues to celebrate the legacy of the film is something I deeply value.
As hockey continues to grow in visibility across the country, I am grateful to contribute to its visual storytelling in my own way. Old-Time Hockey represents sports illustration rooted in tradition, community, and respect for the game.
For me, this piece reflects more than a film. It reflects hockey culture, hometown pride, and the lasting connection between sport and art.