John Willie (b. John Coutts) (1902-1962)

&

Graham McQueen (22.3.1965-27.12.2009)

Nominated by Stefan Dickers, words and handkerchief by The Keeper

I was first introduced to John Willie's art through the tattoos of my late friend Graham McQueen. On one bicep was this tattoo, and on the other, the matching gag illustration. Their forbidden beauty spellbound me. 

Even though Graham's tattoos spoke of the illicit, they were nothing compared to the outrageous behaviour of their owner. He didn't even need a night out for talk of his sexual antics to shock London—a Glaswegian with attitude and an unsurpassed eye for design. Himself a superb draughtsman, John Willie and Graham are a match in heaven. 

John Willie's sublime graphic style has endured the test of time and is widely considered formative to today's elegant kink aesthetic. 

This artwork is part of The Wall of Sexual Heroes, a collaborative textile art piece featured in our previous exhibition at the Horse Hospital (2022) and Bow Arts Lab (2023). All embroidered, printed and appliquėd handkerchiefs celebrate unsung heroes of sexual emancipation, activism and innovation.

The Wall is an organic work. If you would like to contribute, please get in touch with The Keeper. 


More tales of Sexual Heroes>