Tom of Finland’s Art And Culture Fest Is Coming Back To London

Last summer The Tom of Finland Foundation brought its annual Art and Culture Festival to London for the first time. Celebrating queer erotic art and championing artists from around the world, the non-profit brought artists, galleries and patrons to East London to admire and pick up works from the next generation of artistic provocateurs. This year, the Art & Culture Festival is back, this time taking over The Standard with a new slew of creative queer artists.

Founded by Sir Durk Dehner (who was honoured with a bestowed a knighthood by the Chancery of the Orders of the White Rose of Finland and the Lion of Finland this year), initially set out to protect and preserve the works of Tom of Finland (born Touko Lakksonen). To keep his legacy alive, the foundation’s initial goal has expanded to giving a platform to the next generation of queer talent.

‘Each year as we work to elevate, expand and grow the festival, we look for partners that share our vision and align with our message of inclusivity. We feel lucky and proud to work with a brand like The Standard who sees the value and importance of supporting and nurturing of queer erotic artists, now more than ever,' Sir Durk Dehner tells SHOWstudio.

This year’s festivities have been curated by the foundation’s creative director Richard Villani and Gemma Rolls-Bentley. Also taking place in Berlin and Los Angeles, the London edition of the Arts and Culture Fest will see the likes of Martin Perry, Rick Castro, Ed Firth and more display and sell their erotic art. Several talks will take place throughout the week centred on art and erotica, including one specifically about the leather community from the UK's premier leather-man Brew Hunter and Sir Durk Dehner. Whether its chaps or a collar, be sure to dress to impress.

The Tom of Finland Art & Culture Festival will take place at The Standard from 22 to 23 July. Tickets are available here.