
January 2025 | Art & Culture
MODERN-DAY MYTHOLOGICAL HEROES
words Onur Baştürk








In his drawings, he aims to show that love between two men is just as beautiful as any other kind of love. His fantasy universe of muscular, mustachioed heroes is sometimes erotic, sometimes passionate, and often deeply romantic. It feels like a poetic reflection of love, or the erotic fantasies born from it. This sentiment struck me as I spoke to Clément Legrand, an artist who has carved out a unique niche with his work. He is, without a doubt, a meticulous magician, skillfully capturing emotions on paper.
A BLEND OF FEELING AND DISAPPOINTMENTS
Your work centers on the male body and love between men. You often depict muscular, idealized male figures. Is there a specific reason for that?
I think we often desire what we don’t have. That’s why my work reflects this idealized vision of men. I’ve always wanted an athletic body, but that’s not my reality. So, I’ve taken it further in my drawings, creating men with perfect physiques. In a way, it’s a blend of my feelings and disappointments.
The men you draw resemble modern-day mythological heroes—heroes who might use an app! Would you want to live in ancient times, like ancient Greece?
That depends on the role I’d play! If I could envision myself in an idealized version of ancient Greece, then yes, I’d go. But honestly, I already feel exhausted and overwhelmed by the adventures awaiting me today!
Your work reminds me of the erotic world of Tom of Finland Thank you! I’m flattered. Tom of Finland is a hugely influential and talented artist in gay culture. He’s definitely one of my inspirations, alongside others. I must admit, Tom and I do share a particular affection for mustaches!
DRAWING FANTASY EROTICISM
Do you draw the man of your dreams?
A few years ago, I would’ve said, ‘Absolutely, yes, I’m drawing the man of my dreams.’ But life has taught me to separate fantasy from reality. Now, I’d say I draw fantasy eroticism.





Is it difficult for two men to love each other? Or is it romantic?
Love between two men isn’t inherently complicated. What’s complicated is the societal perception we’ve yet to reshape. For years, media has portrayed us as caricatures—funny but rarely taken seriously. Through my work, I aim to show that our love and emotions are just as beautiful as anyone else’s. Our love is the same; only the details differ. However, expressing that love freely—like holding hands or showing affection in public—can still be risky, depending on where we are.
EXPLORING BEYOND PAPER
Your work reminds me of Jean Cocteau. Like his drawings on the walls of Villa Santo Sospir, your art sometimes appears on furniture or vases. Do you enjoy this versatility?
I’ve never drawn on walls, but I imagine it must be liberating to tell a story that way. Working on materials beyond paper lets me deepen the messages I want to share. For these projects, I often collaborate with friends or family. I’ve worked on metal sculptures with my father, on armchairs with upholsterer Jérôme Thoumyre, and recently on a rug with the talented designer Jean-Edouard Cistacq. It’s a joy to share my universe with them!
How would you describe your work?
I’m a detached observer, capturing fleeting moments of human emotion—pleasure, joy, sadness, love, anger, passion. My work freezes these intangible moments in time. It’s like a poem, distilled into its purest form.
BEGINNINGS AND DREAMS
How did you start drawing? What motivated you?
This journey began when I was asked to illustrate two songs by Françoise Fabian: Ce Diable d’Homme by Charles Aznavour and La Conversation by Vincent Delerm. Those projects marked the start of my illustration career. Over time, I realized this medium allowed me to express my feelings and my sexuality.
You’re both a graphic designer and a director. Which role comes first?
I’m both! But those passions have been on pause lately. Maybe one day I’ll return to video. I love capturing moments before anyone notices my presence. As an introvert, though, I find solace in quietly working on my drawings.











