Presenting Tom of Finland By THE SKATEROOM

 It is impossible to come face-to-face with an artwork by Tom of Finland (1920-1991) and not be affected. Whether it’s awe, intrigue, outrage or amusement, such an encounter is bound to elicit a reaction. 

The Finnish artist knew exactly what he was doing when producing his sexually explicit drawings, capturing the male form in a plethora of scenarios, ranging from gently suggestive to graphically erotic. 

But his plan wasn’t to stir controversy for controversy’s sake. Rather, it was to create a new lens through which gay men could see themselves and feel empowered in who they are. To celebrate their love, pride and freedom, and to inspire the heterosexual world to do the same. 

Three decades after Tom of Finland’s passing, this impact still resonates across the world. His artworks call on us to unite, question the status quo and pursue equality - ideally, as he did, with a dose of humor and a whole lot of passion.