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Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero

Name: Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero
Price: 50 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (260 reviews)

4.9 of 5 Stars: LGBTQ+ Demographic Studies - Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero

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Book Synopsis: "Long iconic and even formative for American gay society, Tom’s well-endowed and sexually charged imagery is now hitting the global mainstream." —NBC News With a foreword by Jean Paul Gaultier, an extensive history, and provocative photos and illustrations, this illustrated biography brings to life the story of the icon whose erotic depictions of men influenced gay culture, pop culture, and many prominent artists, including Robert Mapplethorpe and Bruce Weber. The text was completed just a few months before the death of the artist and he was interviewed at length for it—making this book the only fully approved biography of the legend responsible for creating the muscled, mustachioed gay archetype of the 1960s and ’70s. Tom of Finland (born Tuoko Laaksonen, 1920–1991) was an iconic and ground-breaking artist who rose to cult status in the international queer community and then beyond for his work celebrating the male figure and masculinity during a time when being homosexual was still taboo. Avant-garde, provocative, sexual, subversive, and rebellious, Tom of Finland stamped history with his recognizable artistic style. A virtuoso of drawing, he fashioned the silhouette of a new Gay Man—strong, confident, joyful, and assertive—fully participating in the visibility and recognition of the nascent gay rights movement. Created in partnership with Tom of Finland Foundation, Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero includes text authorized by the artist himself a few months before his death. This unique illustrated biography reveals a life of art, pleasure, and liberation using never, or rarely seen, materials from his archive.

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Discover the captivating and groundbreaking world of Tom of Finland with the official biography, "Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero." This extraordinary book takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the life and art of an iconic figure whose boldly erotic depictions of men have left an indelible mark on gay culture and the art world.

With a foreword by the legendary Jean Paul Gaultier, this beautifully illustrated biography offers a comprehensive exploration of Tom of Finland's life, influences, and impact. Featuring provocative photos and illustrations, it showcases the artist's immense talent and his role in shaping the gay archetype of the 1960s and '70s. From his rise to cult status in the queer community to his far-reaching influence on prominent artists like Robert Mapplethorpe and Bruce Weber, Tom of Finland's artistic genius is celebrated throughout.

What sets this book apart is that it is the only fully approved biography, personally authorized by Tom of Finland himself before his passing. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of an artist who fearlessly challenged societal norms and embraced the beauty of the male form. Through the pages of this captivating biography, you'll gain insight into the life of a true gay hero.

This remarkable biography is the result of a collaboration with the Tom of Finland Foundation, ensuring an authentic and comprehensive portrayal of the artist's life. It delves into his art, his pleasures, and his contributions to the liberation of the gay community. Uncover never-before-seen materials from his archive, providing a truly unique and intimate perspective into Tom of Finland's world.

Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of history and dive into the mesmerizing world of Tom of Finland. Celebrate his legacy, explore his art, and embrace the power of liberation. Claim your copy of "Tom of Finland: The Official Life and Work of a Gay Hero" today!

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