The recent announcement of the winners of the “1999 Emerging Erotic Artist Contest” reminded me how beyond excited I was when I was notified that the Grand Prize was to be awarded to my work “C'm Here, Boy” in the 1997 contest. Upon reflection, never did I imagine how greatly winning that award would impact my life. First of all, it introduced me, and my work, to a whole world that I didn't even know existed and gave me the confidence I needed to pursue a career as an erotic artist. Without that contest, I would never have known that my true passion had a forum - and a family of such support and strength to go with it.

< “See Jack Come” by Darel “boy” Smith

Immediately upon being presented with the award in May 1998, I sold my first piece, aptly entitled “No. 1” to a friend. Work hasn't stopped selling since. I've sold 25 original works (along with a number of prints) to men and women from Toronto to Australia, Los Angeles to Amsterdam, Japan and places in between. I also received and completed two magazine illustration gigs, for “Waterboys” and “Handjobs”. The largest Latin American Website for the gay and lesbian community, www.latingay.com, ran a feature on my work on their site in February 1999 (it was very cool because I was sandwiched between Ricky Martin - ouch! - and George Michael). In July 1999 I won a poster design contest sponsored by one of my country's largest leather/denim organizations, “Spearhead” (it's going to be a thrill to see my work hanging in all the clubs in Toronto). Commission work has also been coming in steadily. I've completed 2 for a Canadian gentleman, one for a couple in Los Angeles and another for a man in West Hollywood. I've still 2 to complete fast, and another on its way from Australia. Most recently I was informed that two of my pieces, “..Yes” and “please”, have been chosen to be published by Quarto Press in London, in an upcoming book due out in Spring 2000. I've also enjoyed the pleasure of being publicized in several magazines, on numerous websites and even a television interview. To think that all this happened in a year and a half astounds me and is very exciting.

Of course, the Foundation has been integral to the success I've enjoyed. From attending IML in May 1999, the exposure in the Erotic Art Gallery by Mail, and the fantastic Erotic Art Fair Weekend the Foundation hosts every year, I can't tell you what a fan and loyal supporter of the Foundation I've become.

“On Your Knees” by Darel “boy” Smith >

I tell you all this not to brag, but to show you and anyone else who reads this that the work that you do, the work that Tom did and the countless hours that the Foundation's members and volunteers contribute to all the Foundation's endeavors is truly appreciated, recognized, and definitely worthwhile. Truly, I wouldn't be writing this letter had it not been for all of you.

It's been so great being able to draw hot, horny, naked men all day long. I can't thank you enough. I wish I could thank Tom.

Peace,

Darel “boy” Smith

(Editor's note: Darel, I think you just did.)

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