Today we’d like to introduce you to Durk Dehner.
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. We are arrived where we are today with perseverance and tenacity and not giving up.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
We started Tom’s Foundation at the begining of the AIDS epidemic. Artists were asking us to take in their archives as they were falling ill. We took a whole decade to care for those that were sick and dying, and the arts became secondary. Then activism came along and money could be directed to the Foundation. The last few years have shown an uptick in the appreciation of queer culture and now finally being realized, the Foundation has flourished. We are adapting again to the times and what’s made it easy over the years is the remarkable dedication our volunteers have had.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Tom of Finland Foundation – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
We protect, preserve and promote the erotic arts. It is a queer organization that has programs such as drawing classes, artist competitions, and art fairs. We curates traveling exhibitions internationally, and host TOM House residencies for artists from around the world. We have survived without major grants for over 35 years, and presently we have a forged a major presence in popular culture. The House in which the Foundation resides is #1135 Cultural-Historic Monument for the City of Los Angeles. We are based in a house where Tom lived that is very personable and inviting, not your typical institution.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Unfortunately we had so many projects slated for 2020 that had to be postponed. We move into 2021 with expectations and plans for exhibitions and partnerships. We look forward to having events back at our headquarters and having people come by for tours. Currently our Emerging Artist Competition is open and we encourage artists to go to our website and submit their work. Our virtual Arts and Culture Festival will take place December 11-13, 2020, and our new Patreon page is live. We are only able to do what we do with the generosity of member and donors. Gifts can be made at http://www.tomoffinland.org/
Contact Info:
- Address: Tom House 1421 Laveta Terrace Los Angeles, CA 90026
- Website: https://www.tomoffinland.org/
- Phone: 213-250-1685
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @tomoffinlandfoundation
- Facebook: @ToFFHouse
- Twitter: @TomsFoundation
- Other: https://www.patreon.com/tomoffinland
Image Credit:
Photo: Courtesy Tom of Finland Foundation
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
