A Look at the Erotic Tom of Finland Photo Contest and Auction

In honor of what would have been Tom of Finland creator Touko Valio Laaksonen's 102nd birthday, Tom of Finland Vodka sponsored a photo contest throughout the month of June to see who could create the sexiest and most captivating photos that embody the spirit of Tom of Finland, while also showcasing their award-winning vodka along with the hashtag #YourTomIsShowing. The finalists were announced and they all decidedly understood the assignment. Woof! There will be two winners for the contest: an Audience Winner and winner picked by a panel of judges, and both winners will receive a $1,000 grand prize. While the votes are being tallied to decide the winners, we figured we'd show you the gorgeous men who created the stunning photos that landed them in the finalists position.

Andrew Gleason

 

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"Creating a judgement-free, inclusive space for creators, like myself, is so important. That is just what ToFF (Tom of Finland Foundation) has done. For over 35 years, ToFF has been dedicated to the preservation of freedom of expression showcased in LGBTQ+ arts. As I developed into a photographer, there was no shortage of inspiration to be drawn from the work on Tom of Finland; by showcasing the male body and form in a strong and fearless way. Having this type of imagery exist in the world makes it feel safe for emerging artists to explore their craft without feeling the need to “color inside the lines”. Head over to the @tomoffinlandvodka to see how ToF has inspired other artists and why not grab yourself a bottle of vodka while you’re at it. Cheers! Happy Birthday Tom!"

Carlos Campos -- *AUDIENCE WINNER*

 

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"In honor of and inspired by one of the greatest homoerotic artists of the 20th century, who would have turned 102 this May."

David Zimmerman

 

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"Tom of Finland inspires me to be bold. My brazen approach to life manifested through exploring the work of Tom of Finland. Generations of artists laid the groundwork for me to explore my passions freely—so my expression is my duty. Be bold and follow @tomoffinlandvodka for more saucy content."

Eric Wainwright

 

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"Loved getting to work on this project for @tomoffinlandvodka ! When searching for a model and an idea I remembered I was going to have my client @hank.meyer.fitness coming to see me for a photoshoot soon! I asked him if he liked the concept and he loved the idea! 'Tom of Finland in my opinion, has always been the best depiction of male perfection. It constantly inspires me and makes me want to be a better man!' A quote from Hank. Make sure you head over to @tomoffinlandvodka , give them a follow, and check out all the other images from other photographers!"

Jason Jackson

 

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"Blessed To Serve”: Tom Of Finland, the legendary Finnish artist and illustrator Touko Valio Laaksonen, continues to be an inspiration to my work. He had the ability to create a sexually-charged and hyper-erotic images that went beyond just the beefcake. His ability (and intention) to create a visual narrative the viewer can interpret is as equally important to me and this often influences my creative concepts when photographing. TOM continues to be one of the icons I often refer to when formulating ideas for shooting the male form for my ongoing male series “The Erotiese Project”. Have a little Tom of Finland Vodka and celebrate one of the originators."

Kevin McDermott

 

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"Be sure to follow @tomoffinlandvodka to see more content that inspires us all, just as Tom of Finland’s artwork inspires me."

Kenneth Gruenholtz

 

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"I always get pumped when I’m with TOM.

Kurtis Dallon -- *JURY WINNER*

 

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"I’ll drink to that
#YourTomIsShowing #tomsbdaycontest follow @tomoffinlandvodka for more"

All of these photos were then auctioned off with 100% of the proceeds going to The Tom of Finland Foundation through the charity website CharityBuzz. From the Foundation's website, they say: "In 1984, the nonprofit Tom of Finland Foundation (ToFF) was established by Durk Dehner and his friend Tom. As Tom had established worldwide recognition as the master of homoerotic 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 ToFF 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."

Tom of Finland Vodka is 100% organic and award-winning. It is not only delicious vodka, but a portion of all sales go directly to The Tom of Finland Foundation. You can buy TOF Vodka at your local bar, or if you want to buy direct from their website, the vodka can be bought here.

Who are some of your favorites from the finalists? Have you had Tom of Finland Vodka yet? Do you love it? Let us know your thoughts!

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