The winners of 2024’s Tom of Finland Emerging Artist Competition

WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE

The purpose of this contest is twofold: to encourage artists to share their erotic work and to elevate the field of erotic art by rewarding the best current examples.

This year’s Competition judges are designer Jean Paul Gaultier; Taschen editor Dian Hanson; filmmaker Gus van Sant; curator and artist Princess Julia; Transgender artist Cassils; author, musician and performance artist, Brontez Purnell; previous Competition grand prize winner, Łukasz Leja; and visionary photographer and director, Nick Knight.

THE JUDGES

An Italian artist based in Paris, this winner’s work combines elements of humor, provocation, and an open celebration of Queer and Gay culture, resulting in works that are as liberating as they are bold. His sculptures are anthropomorphic: They feature human bodies with animal heads, such as rabbits, lions, and pigs. This choice is not random but carries a deep significance.

Ceramics allow the artist to explore the tensions between strength and fragility, stability and movement. His mission is to create art that not only beautifies but also stimulates, challenges, and inspires. His sculptures are visual conversations that invite viewers to look beyond the surface and confront their own perceptions of identity and desire.

Łukasz Leja (2022 Grand Prize); Durk Dehner (ToFF President & Cofounder); Pietro Spirito (2024 Grand Prize); and Richard Villani (ToFF Creative Director). Tom of Finland Art & Culture Festival, SHOWstudio, London, 21st September 2024. Photo by Hassan Saif.

“As an openly Gay and Queer artist, my work celebrates the freedom to be oneself without compromise. I never expected to receive this award, and it is a great honor for me. Tom of Finland represents, to me, the highest form of freedom of expression. If my artistic work can, even in a small way, contribute to furthering this value, I can only be happy. I dedicate this recognition to my online community, who has supported me from day one. A special thank you to Tom of Finland Foundation, and the jury, and of course to Tom himself.” -Pietro Spirito, winner of the Tom of Finland Grand Prize

 

Published: 21st September 2024

Categorised in: Friends of Tom, News