Tom of Finland Foundation was established by Durk Dehner and his friend Touko Laaksonen a.k.a. Tom of Finland. As Tom had established worldwide recognition as the master of homo-erotic art, the Foundation's original purpose was to preserve his vast catalog of work. Several years later the scope was widened to offer a safe haven for all erotic art in response to rampant discrimination against art that portrayed sexual behavior or generated a sexual response. Today the Foundation continues in its efforts of educating the public as to the cultural merits of erotic art and in promoting healthier, more tolerant attitudes about sexuality. Unlike many artists, Tom of Finland's work has always been appreciated by a grass-roots audience as his work was first seen in commercial settings such as magazine illustration, posters and advertising. From the perspective of art historians, Tom's work had an effect on global culture unmatched by that of virtually any other artist. Tom's work had a defining impact on the way Gay men throughout the world were perceived and more importantly, how they perceived themselves. Tom's work has, therefore, had a ripple effect throughout Gay and non-Gay culture during the last 40 years, influencing lifestyle, political tolerance, design, fashion and art. One of the primary goals of the Foundation is to promote Tom's work along with other erotic art so that it receives the academic attention it deserves. From a critical perspective, thanks in part to the sustained commitment of the Foundation, Tom's art is now receiving the acknowledgment it merits. The Finnish Museum of Contemporary Art was the first to make a progressive move in its 1991 acquisition of three Tom of Finland works. In 1997, Tom's work was acquired by two more major museums: The Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Actively promoted by the Foundation, Tom's work is increasingly being shown in galleries and museums worldwide including the Museum of Modern Art, New York. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Educational Archive supported by donations from the public, various fundraising events and dues from its loyal membership. The men and women who support our efforts and goals dedicate themselves both financially and as volunteers enabling the Foundation to present an impressive number of activities on a limited budget. Tom of Finland Company exists as a separate entity from the Foundation. The Company was first established by Tom and Durk to oversee the publication of his work and to eliminate the problem of widespread piracy of his images. In order to further the goal of supporting both Tom's art and the art of other erotic artists, the Company initiated and funded the Tom of Finland Foundation and continues to provide free publicity and donations to further its aims. The Foundation has produced three Tom of Finland Retrospectives. The latest features the finest representation of his work yet with a foreword by noted photographer Bruce Weber and an essay by former Whitney Museum curator Richard Marshall. In recent years, the Foundation has rapidly expanded its Permanent Collection through donations of all manner of erotic artworks, by artists of all genders and sexual orientations. In addition, a growing archive of images by other artists to complement the extensive one of Tom's work is in progress. These archives provide an invaluable resource to curators, students, art historians and collectors. To support and encourage emerging erotic artists the Foundation produces a bi-annual contest which provides exhibition of their work, publicity and awards. The promotion and sale of both new and established artists is facilitated through ToFF's website. The work represented ranges from unknown artists to classic images by Tom, Don Bachardy, Robert Mapplethorpe and more. ToFF hosts social events throughout the year to raise funds and to provide a sense of community for supporters of erotic art. An example is the annual "TOM's Bar" which promotes and exhibits erotic art in a very popular party setting and raises funds to support the Foundation's activities at the same time. The rapidly growing "West Hollywood/LA Erotic Art Fair Weekend" brings together artists and patrons from many parts of the globe. It provides them with a social environment in which to network, opportunities to explore the archives and most importantly, the opportunity to buy and sell works at the two-day Erotic Art Fair.
Subliminal Projects was created by artists Shepard Fairey and Blaze Blouin in 1995 as an artist collective, using skateboards as a fine art medium. By expanding beyond skateboards and apparel to include fine art prints, the group began drawing the attention of Aaron Rose, curator of Alleged Gallery in New York. As a result, Subliminal is one of the key groups responsible for cementing the relationship between the skateboard culture with the fine art world, working with then-unknown artists such as Phil Frost, Thomas Campbell, Mike Mills, Dave Aaron, and Mark Gonzales. By reintroducing Subliminal Projects to the current art scene, Shepard and Amanda Fairey continue to promote collaborations in the form of publications, art shows, and events between artists of varying disciplines.
Pilates & Arts is the only Pilates studio in the heart of Echo Park, a hilly neighborhood north east of downtown Los Angeles, California. In addition to Pilates instruction P&A exhibits arts and hosts After Pilates hours intimate gatherings celebrating all art forms and community. Now offering dance and martial arts classes of all kinds in our dance studio at reasonable rates from $10-$15 a class.
{ SPACEDUST - a community-minded shop highlighting local artisans & independent creators from every corner of the known galaxy
Mush has a unique variety of Home Decor and gifts at reasonable prices. From antique to contemporary, locally made or imported, each item is hand picked by the owner to create a very interesting shopping experience for you!
SIGLO MODERNO Showroom/Atelier, aptly named for its concept of timeless design = timeless luxury is located in the heart of Fashion and Design on Melrose Avenue. SIGLO MODERNO focuses on enhancing image and lifestyle through holistic spatial design. Be it their own showroom, a residence, or a commercial space, SIGLO MODERNO will provide provocative, timeless, and artisanal crated spatial experiences. Creative Director, Designer and Founder Jorge L. Cruzata curates his showroom with a sophisticated coverage of iconic vintage designs, contemporary designs, and the in house collection S+M Furniture. Interior Design services are also available.
The Dodger Art Collection is an original limited edition fine art prints signed by the artist. We also have MLB licensed gear, T-shirts, Hats and stickers. The location of Dodger Art Store is just 5 minutes from the Dodger Stadium.
The Hub Gallery is a showroom dedicated to bringing Los Angeles only the finest of art and antiques, with its broad collection spanning over 3000 years of human civilization. From Classical and Egyptian antiquities to 60’s Abstract painting, and everything in between, The Hub is a bastion of history and beauty catering to discerning collectors, sophisticated interior designers and decorators, and other art aficionados. Paintings, sculpture, furniture, and every type of decorative object; you name it and The Hub will find it for you. We offer curatorial services for individuals seeking to broaden or refine their collections, and if you are a decorator looking for a particular piece that can’t be found in the showroom, the odds are very good that it can be located somewhere in our off-site, 3000 square foot warehouse. With 40 years of knowledge and expertise behind The Hub, rest assured that every item in the gallery has been thoroughly vetted and is guaranteed to be authentic and precisely as described. Whether you are looking for investment grade art or a 19th c. bronze sculpture for your entryway, we always strive to bring you the highest of quality for the best value available. The Hub will be periodically hosting curated exhibitions as well as shows highlighting works by tomorrow’s Masters, so please feel free to provide us with your contact information to be placed on our event mailing list.
Duson Design is located in a 2,400 sq ft gallery on the corner of Sunset & Rampart in Silver Lake/Echo Park. We specialize in unique modified vintage furnishings, art and accessories from reclaimed wood and industrial metals. We refresh our inventory of mid-century modern, art deco, Asian antique, pop art and found art inspired lamps and home accessories every week.
Subliminal Projects was created by artists Shepard Fairey and Blaze Blouin in 1995 as an artist collective, using skateboards as a fine art medium. By expanding beyond skateboards and apparel to include fine art prints, the group began drawing the attention of Aaron Rose, curator of Alleged Gallery in New York. As a result, Subliminal is one of the key groups responsible for cementing the relationship between the skateboard culture with the fine art world, working with then-unknown artists such as Phil Frost, Thomas Campbell, Mike Mills, Dave Aaron, and Mark Gonzales. By reintroducing Subliminal Projects to the current art scene, Shepard and Amanda Fairey continue to promote collaborations in the form of publications, art shows, and events between artists of varying disciplines.
The Dodger Art Collection is an original limited edition fine art prints signed by the artist. We also have MLB licensed gear, T-shirts, Hats and stickers. The location of Dodger Art Store is just 5 minutes from the Dodger Stadium.
The Grier Musser Museum displays a fascinating collection of antiques and collectibles in an historic house residing in Los Angeles'Bonnie Brae historic district. Built during 1898 in th fanciful Queen Ann style of Victorian architecture. The museum was established in 1984 and became a historical & cultural monument #333 of Los Angeles in 1987. It is located in the Westlake/MacAuthur Park area near downtown Los Angeles
Are You interested about the folk and contemporary art of Baltic countries? About languages, history etc. Please come and find out. If You need custom bound journal, guest book, photo album or book repairs - Alfreds can make. Some repairs to Your folk dress - Inguna can do. Would You like to learn ribbon weaving, how to make straw mobiles etc.? - Please, call - let's discuss it. Open: by appointment only, and during events - due to relocation - in a couple weeks (around June 23/16)