Touko Laaksonen, the boy who would become Tom of Finland
(1920-1991), began drawing cartoons at age five. His favorite
subjects were the rough manly men of his native Finland, as Touko
knew from an early age that men interested him more than women. His
talents were further honed by art study in Helsinki. He found
success in the Finnish advertising industry but secretly continued
creating his increasingly erotic drawings of hyper-masculine men.
In 1957 he submitted some drawings to the American magazine
Physique Pictorial and the "Tom of Finland" legend was born. By the
late 60s Tom’s "dirty drawings" became the standard for gay art,
and Tom’s Men a template for a new gay masculinity. Tom’s art
continues to play an important role in promoting self-confidence,
positive self-image and openness in the gay community.
Dian Hanson is a senior editor and writer for TASCHEN, with over 50
books to her credit. In addition to ARNOLD, her recent works
include The Art of Pin-up, Masterpieces of Fantasy Art, and The
Fantastic Worlds of Frank Frazetta.
For boys who like boys who like art...
*Gay Community News*
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