The content of this exhibition contains some explicit material and mature subject matter, including artwork containing nudity, sexual conduct and other material that some people may consider offensive. By entering this exhibition, you are declaring that you are of legal age in the United States (over 18); that you are not otherwise prohibited from viewing such material by the laws of any country, state or local community applicable to you; that if you misrepresent your age or legal status you may be in violation of such laws; and that you accept full responsibility for your use of this website.

Curated by Joakim Andreasson / In collaboration with Tom of Finland Foundation / Realized by Calle Henzel

Kalkeriet + FP/LA is pleased to announce a virtual exhibition that highlights Tom of Finland’s preparatory drawings and sketches created as part of the artist’s process in producing his influential works. A selection of these, reappropriated by Henzel Studio into 13 editioned handmade wool and silk rugs in 2014, will be on view and accompanied by virtual replicas of corresponding drawings made available by Tom of Finland Foundation. The exhibition will also include 4 chromogenic printed
velour rugs that feature unique Tom of Finland collages made by Joakim Andreasson. The woven works, many unseen or ever reproduced, feature portraits, scenes depicting camaraderie, homoerotic gaze, flirtation and sexual acts. One drawing outlines a man engaged in a boot fetish scene, another a nipple flirtation, whereas a third a f\*\*k scene, bringing new meaning to love making on a rug. A single hand knotted rug, entirely woven by hand over the course of five months, depicts one of Tom of Finland’s most iconic works of a “leatherman” wearing a cap. The drawing was made as a study for the visual identity of the gay leather bar TOM’S SALOON, the only place Tom lent his name to. Made with comparable intricacy as the original drawing, it is free form and in select areas enhanced with silk to add shine and replicate the effect of polished leather.


TOM OF FINLAND: Drawings Reappropriated