Tom of Finland
Finnish illustrator and gay art pioneer

Born
May 8th, 1920
105 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1991
33 years ago — 71 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Finland
Links & References
An influential Finnish illustrator, this individual gained prominence through the creation of homoerotic art characterized by idealized male forms. The work often featured muscular men in various suggestive scenarios, celebrating male sexuality and embracing a bold aesthetic. Active during the latter half of the 20th century, this artist's illustrations helped shape gay culture and are frequently referenced and admired within LGBTQ+ communities. The art was widely published in various forms and remains celebrated in museums and exhibitions worldwide. Later in life, focus shifted to art that combined eroticism with more mainstream themes.
Created a signature style celebrating male eroticism
Published numerous illustrations in various magazines
Influenced the visual representation of gay culture
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