What are the main changes you have seen in the market for Erotic Art, since you have specialized in erotic art appraisals back in 2004?

From an American perspective, the erotic art market has grown tremendously. More people are acquiring erotic art as people are being honest about who they are in the world sexually. The erotic attributes in a composition tend to reflect the personality of the buyer through the use of color, medium or theme. In the last few years, I have been asked to appraise collections for individuals and museums for insurance purposes. Due to the greater acceptance of the genre, the demand and its value has increased.

Do you have any expectations regarding the art being submitted? Or what are your hopes?

I expect the art to be sophisticated, intelligent and innovative. I hope that this competition will provide the opportunity for established artists to raise the bar with each other. For immerging artists, I hope that this competition allows the opportunity to challenge the establishment. The ultimate result is to bridge the gap between highbrow and lowbrow art and provide patrons the opportunity to discover exciting new work.

It seems rather generous; a solo exhibit for the winner plus invitation to Las Vegas and exposure at your gallery for the top 25 contestants and adding to that all of their works will be published in an art book. How do you manage all that?

To my knowledge, I am not familiar with any other art gallery in the world that has created a platform for high-end erotic art. With the participation of all artists and patrons from around the world, 12” of Sin will become the annual art exhibition to watch for its discernment and quality of art.

You have a very international jury. What impact do you think this will have on the final selection as compared a strictly American jury?

I do not want to cater to one particular market or culture. It is imperative that the competition be inclusive of all forms of eroticism from around the world.

How do you picture the future of Erotic Art?

I see it becoming more popular due to an increased acceptance.

Why did you choose The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence and its SADAP as a donation project? I imagine running a global contest like this will be a costly affair.

I chose the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence because they are an international organization whose mission is to comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable. In addition to enlightening people about their SADAP program, the organization provides incredible resources to their communities.