PAPIS
BY GROSS KRAMER
1. Origin and Creation
The Papis were born from the personal taste and imagination of artist Gross Kramer, who began drawing them around three years ago. The series originated from his attraction to mature, hairy men and the desire to express a more alternative form of beauty within the LGBTQ+ community. The creative spark came when he purchased a set of POSCA markers and started sketching in a notebook, drawing inspiration from other queer artists who also portrayed “bear” type men but giving his characters a more colorful, joyful, and affirmative approach.
Over time, Gross Kramer transferred these drawings onto canvas, mixing techniques like POSCA markers, acrylic paint, and digital illustration via Procreate. Many of these artworks currently hang in his home, waiting to be exhibited around the world, as they have become a deeply personal and vital part of his identity as an artist.
2. Common Physical Characteristics of the Papis
The Papis are mature male characters who share distinctive features:
Chubby bodies with abundant body hair, meticulously drawn strand by strand.
Large noses and big ears features, the artist finds especially attractive.
Small eyes full of tenderness and affection, giving them a warm and loving expression.
Always smiling or wearing playful, cheeky expressions.
Often depicted nude or in sexual situations, including explicit content, as a statement of body positivity and sexual freedom.
3. Artistic Style and Technique
The visual style of the Papis is defined by:
Bold black outlines and thick linework.
Bright colors and pastel tones that create a vibrant, almost childlike aesthetic.
A playful but mature look, cheerful yet clearly for adult audiences.
Mixed media techniques, with a strong preference for POSCA markers on paper or canvas, combined with acrylic paint and occasionally oil. The artist also creates digital pieces in Procreate, though traditional media dominate his process.
4. Personality and Energy of the Characters
The Papis radiate joy, sensuality, and a carefree attitude. They are characters who love themselves fully, regardless of how others might perceive them. Through their poses, expressions, and body language, they encourage others to embrace self-love and body acceptance in a world often filled with sadness and unrealistic standards.
5. Message and Meaning
For Gross Kramer, the Papis are a radical statement of affirmation:
They celebrate body diversity, especially chubby, hairy bodies that lie far outside conventional beauty standards.
They symbolize pride in having an unconventional taste in men, specifically in those who don’t conform to the polished, muscular ideal.
They reject fatphobia and challenge the idea that only certain bodies deserve to be seen as attractive.
They express gay and sexual freedom without shame, showing sex as something natural and joyful.
They promote self-acceptance and confidence as essential to a happy, authentic life.
6. Their Universe and Narrative
The Papis live in a world of body comfort, free sexuality, nudity, laughter, and self-celebration. It’s a universe where smiling, loving oneself, and living freely are central values. Their unapologetic presence challenges norms and spreads a message of inclusion and joy.
