Meet the Tom of Finland Emerging Artist Competition judges

Glenn Martens, Honey Dijon and Mr Gruts sound off on Tom of Finland’s lasting legacy and the importance of Queer erotic art.

Declaring Tom of Finland the father of Queer erotic art would be an understatement. The Finnish illustrator’s instantly recognisable beefcakes have led to Queer awakenings around the globe since his work was first published in magazines like Physique Pictorial in the 1950s. The hyper-stylised masculinity of his imagery was heavily influential to 20th-century gay culture, helping establish the ‘clone look’ thanks to his leather donning Adonises.

Continuing the legacy of the legendary artist, Tom of Finland Foundation is putting the spotlight on the next generation of Queer erotic artists with the 11th instalment of its Emerging Artist Competition. Looking to elevate the field of erotic art, the contest is open to all mediums across photography, illustration, paintings, mixed media, and digital renderings. This year’s winner will receive an original Tom of Finland illustration, a Foundation membership, and will be featured at the Tom of Finland Art and Culture Festival taking place in October.

TOM OF FINLAND Untitled (Preparatory drawing), c. 1975

The last competition was held in 2020 with a star-studded lineup of judges including designer Jonathan Anderson, musician Seth Bogart, and Talk Art Podcast hosts Russell Tovey and Robert Diament. This year six internationally renowned creators including Diesel creative director Glenn Martens, Honey Dijon, and the 2020 grand prize winner Mr Gruts will be tasked with choosing the standouts who will be announced at the Art and Culture Fest. We spoke to the three judges about their involvement, and the influential artist’s lasting legacy.

READ THE COMPLETE INTERVIEWS BY JOSHUA GRAHAM

Published: 18th August 2022

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