It was 17 years in the making, but photographer Tom Flip finally collected dozens of his photos into a book.
“Flip 2” is a tasteful and artful collection of nude and semi-nude Key West women, all posing in Lower Keys backyards.
“There are moms, bartenders, teachers; everyone is represented,” said Flip, whose full name is Thomas Filipkowski.
A book release party will take place at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29 at Effusion Gallery, 701 Duval St. The same night, the gallery will celebrate the opening of a photography exhibit by Flip featuring all manner of Key West photos.
“Tom Flip is a central figure in Key West’s underground creative scene,” said gallery owner Brandie Sager. “It’s a scene that moves separately from the tourist industry we’re so dependent on, while also quietly feeding it the fresh supply of magic it needs to thrive. Tom is endlessly fascinated by people, loves collaborating and is always ready to push the envelope. He’s punk as hell and knows not to apologize for it.
“This body of work reflects all of that. There is no pretense, no tacky veneer begging to be liked by the masses. It’s an unedited, honest and raw expression of what this creative icon gets up to when no one is looking. And he’s brought his weird and wonderful friends along for the ride.
This show is a glimpse behind the curtain and an invitation into that world.”
“Flip 2” is available for $40 at Effusion Gallery.
Key West photographer and podcaster Tom Flip celebrates the release of his artfully nude photography book, ‘Flip 2’ at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29 at Effusion Gallery, 701 Duval St. TOM FLIP/Contributed
