How 101 Painted hogs celebrate art, ag, and community in Martin County

In Martin County, Minnesota, a fun and large-scale public art project called Going Hog Wild is turning heads and turning up tourism. The project features 101 painted hog statues placed throughout Fairmont and neighboring Martin County towns, each designed by local artists and sponsored by businesses to celebrate the area’s agricultural heritage – especially its ties to the pork industry. What began as a creative nod to local pride has grown into a larger movement. Led by the nonprofit Imagine Martin, the initiative now plays a key role in promoting Martin County as a vibrant place to live, work, and visit, using public art and community events to strengthen connections and boost visibility.

The Genesis of Going Hog Wild

Going Hog Wild evolved from a simple idea: use street-corner art to promote downtown Fairmont. Jeff Rouse, a local business owner and longtime arts advocate, was part of the small group that first envisioned the project. Inspired by similar public art displays across the Midwest, the group sought a concept with local relevance. Hogs were the obvious choice as Martin County is the largest pork-producing county in Minnesota.

What began as a modest effort to boost visibility for downtown businesses quickly gained momentum. Interest in hosting a hog statue spread rapidly among Fairmont businesses and community groups, eventually expanding into surrounding Martin County towns. The project culminated in 101 uniquely painted hog statues, each with its own story and sponsor.

Twenty-four Martin County artists were commissioned to bring the statues to life.

“We thought the hogs would be clever and well-received,” Rouse said. “But when the artists started painting, they took it to another level. They truly stepped up and did an incredible job.”

While demand continues, organizers say the current collection is complete.

“At this point, we’re not going to do any more,” Rouse said. “We won’t say never—but for now, 101 feels like the perfect number.”

A Countywide Scavenger Hunt

To help visitors navigate the widespread display, organizers began hosting coordinated events and later developed an easy-to-follow map, turning the experience into a countywide scavenger hunt. Tourists now crisscross Martin County, snapping photos with each statue and checking them off one by one — an interactive and engaging way to explore the area.

The hogs have drawn attention far beyond Minnesota.

“It’s been a tremendous draw,” Rouse said. “We’re shocked at how many people drive a long distance to see the hogs that have been created.” Visitors have come from as far as St. Louis, and the statues remain a popular destination for travelers from Iowa, Wisconsin, and South Dakota. One pig-themed collectors’ group from Tennessee even held its annual convention in Fairmont after hearing about the project.

Building on a Public Art Success

Many visitors drawn to Martin County by the hog statues end up staying longer and discovering even more reasons to return. According to Rouse and other project sponsors, tourists frequently share how much they’ve enjoyed exploring the broader community.

“They’re enjoying our community, and they’re amazed and thrilled with what they’re finding — with our lakes, our shopping, and our dining,” Rouse said. “That’s really been the purpose from Day One. We have a fabulous community, and if people know what we have, they will come.”

Expanding the Vision: Imagine Martin

As Going Hog Wild gained popularity, Rouse founded Imagine Martin, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the arts and uplifting Martin County through creative partnerships. The nonprofit opened a Community Information Hub and Gift Shop, offering locally made products and brochures highlighting local attractions and upcoming events.

“We also formed a mural committee, and it has already completed murals throughout the county,” Rouse said. “Several more are in the works. We’re inviting businesses, organizations, and individuals to come forward with ideas. If they know what they want, we can help bring it to life—or if they need inspiration, we can assist with that too. In some cases, we can even help secure grants to cover costs.”

Imagine Martin also launched a seasonal series of Art Marts, featuring regional artists, crafters, and food vendors. These events give residents and visitors a chance to explore local talent, support small businesses, and engage with the creative energy of the community.

Events That Bring People Together

Asked by the community for more family-friendly events, Imagine Martin has stepped up by organizing and actively developing programs that bring people of all ages together through creativity, culture, and connection. These efforts include hands-on art activities, seasonal festivals, and partnerships with local organizations to expand engagement opportunities across Martin County.

“We love working with fellow nonprofits and businesses because together, we can create events that not only entertain, but also celebrate what makes Martin County special,” Rouse said.

That commitment to community and creativity traces back to the original Going Hog Wild committee, made up of Rouse, Ashley Jensen Haake, Alex Young Williams, and Nancy Katzer —a longside early supporters like the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council and statue producers SVJ Creative Designs. What began as a small idea to install hog statues downtown has evolved into a far-reaching effort to promote Martin County through art, events, and authentic local experiences.

Review a full calendar of upcoming Imagine Martin events here. 

Improving the quality of life in Fairmont and supporting local business growth is also central to Fairmont Economic Development’s mission. To learn more, please visit our website.