Tom of Finland (born Touko Laaksonen 8th May 1920, and died 7th November 1991) has long been recognized as one of the 20th century’s great visual innovators. As he confronted the stigmas and stereotypes that long burdened homosexual desire, his depictions of empowered gay men fully enjoying their sexuality proved liberating on social and aesthetic levels alike. The sheer range of his influence on the culture at large is immeasurable. His work assumes a key role in the art historical discourse (Tom’s drawings are in the collections of institutions like The Museum of Modern Art, New York and regularly appear in museum shows throughout the world), but also occupies a place in every corner of the popular imagination.
You can enjoy a mini catalogue of the show, The Darkroom, inThe Official Life and Work of a Gay Heroand discover every technique and style from Tom’s nearly fifty year career.
Tom drew males having sex without shame, proud and full of confidence. Tom of Finland is the artist’s name of Touko Laaksonen (1920—1991). He signed his erotic work “Tom” and when his drawings were first published in 1957, the now world-famous “Tom of Finland” was born.
In 2011, David Bohnett Foundation (DBF) granted our Foundation the funds to purchase and install our art storage unit – now officially the David Bohnett Preservation Pod. In 2020, as we all sheltered in place, DBF came though with funds in support of the COVID-19 relief efforts.
In this tour, Durk touches on Tom’s themes of humor and culture: His cheeky takes on elements from his Finnish heritage, his use of fashion in styling Tom’s Men, and his progressive visions for inclusion at a time when publishers would not accept interracial erotic art.
We Are Spastor presents their first collaboration with Tom of Finland in order to continue joining forces and supporting projects that are a source of inspiration and encouragement.
