Tom of Finland: The Motorcycle Series
The Motorcycle Series, a complete set of 11 drawings by the iconic illustrator Tom of Finland, is on view in New York City. The images are being exhibited at the Phillips Gallery, 432 Park Avenue, until November 17. On the next day, the set will be auctioned.
"The Motorcycle Series demonstrates in rich detail Tom of Finland's signature homoerotic chiaroscuro only two years after his Physique Pictorial debut. Early drawings such as these are exceedingly rare, especially as a full narrative group."
Tom of Finland, who died in 1991 and was once called the most influential creator of gay homoerotic images, produced over 3,500 illustrations. His work inspired generations of queer artists around the world.
On November 18, Phillips hopes to sell The Motorcycle Series for something between $180,000 and $250,000. The set was commissioned by Tony Hepworth of Yorkshire, who was a motorcyclist himself and paid £25 each month for Tom to create the series of drawings.
"The present works were commissioned beginning in 1959 by Tony Hepworth, an avid motorcyclist from Yorkshire, England, who greatly admired Tom's work. Seeking to support the artist, Tony sent him £25 each month—nearly $700 when adjusted for inflation— and in exchange received a new chapter of the present eleven-image serial story. Tony was an avid motorcyclist, and Tom was pleased to create an erotic storyline with a motorcycle rider as its protagonist for him".
Earlier this year, Fotografiska celebrated the 100th anniversary of Tom's birthday with a special exhibition curated by Berndt Arell.
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