I first found the illustrations of the men of Tom of Finland with their rugged outlaw masculinity. That led to magazines and videos of bodybuilders flexing and working out. I was captivated. Iconic producer JimmyZ gave life and color to my muscle worship fantasies just like he did for so many other men. I wanted an event that celebrates these men and those of us who admire them or emulate them. And I realized that to have the muscle worship event I wanted, I would have to create it myself. I was inspired by those who came before me, and hopefully FLEX is inspiring others as well.