As a collective, we are butt-obsessed. This publication is particularly well-known for a cover that broke the internet and accentuated a very famous celebrity’s behind by way of champagne-popping. For Belgian illustrator Achraf Amiri, who refers to himself as the “hidden son of the Addams Family,” our societal fixation became the perfect starting point for his latest book.
CULOSSAL, as Amiri describes it, is an “anthology of ass,” featuring erotic and at times unsettling depictions of the human posterior inspired by happenings in pop culture. It features more than 15 years of Amiri’s twisted illustrations, exploring the “symbolism and aesthetic power” of the derrière as part of an ongoing publication called IllusTRASHion.
Below, PAPER talks with Amiri about all things buttocks, which the artist says are “incredibly versatile” and, ultimately, a symbol of “inclusivity and unity.”
Why the butt as a subject?
I mean, it’s absolutely fascinating, right? Surely, I’m not the only one who thinks so. Let’s be real, humanity’s been obsessed with the derrière since cavemen were doodling it on cave walls.
What do you think makes a great butt?
That would depend on its use, since the buttock is incredibly versatile. But for me, it’s all about how it can express confidence.
You mention in the book that we, as a society, have learned to downplay our desires. How have you learned to amplify yours through art?
I’ve been fortunate to have been able to draw since I was a child. Drawing is what helped me discover my confidence. It’s been my personal outlet for self-expression, much like others find theirs through dancing, drag or music. The key is expressing your desires in your own safe space, or “secret garden,” until you’re ready to face reality with confidence.
This book is divided into different Acts. How did you organize the illustrations and what do you see as the progression, from start to finish?
It wasn’t about organizing by date (bear in mind that my oldest featured illustration was made 15 years ago). The focus was on the emotion each illustration evokes, whether it’s sexy, punk or playful. From there, I built a narrative that brings them all together — always highlighting the drama, of course.
You describe the butt as a symbol of "inclusivity and unity." How so?
It’s the one private part of the human anatomy we all have in common, regardless of ethnicity, gender, body type or social class.
Talk through the process of making one of these illustrations. Do you always have specific ideas that you set out to execute?
It’s all very direct, I rarely spend more than an hour creating them. For me, it’s about capturing the impulsive idea — the cruder, the better. My focus is on projecting the essence of my vision. Just like vomiting, once it’s out I feel better. In terms of technique, all my works are analogue sketches, drawn with pen and ink on paper. In an age dominated by digital art, I’d rather stick to a traditional approach.
Do you consider your work a criticism or celebration of pop culture? Both?
My works are a reflection of the times we live in. While I don’t take myself too seriously and prefer a tongue-in-cheek approach, I do maintain a critical perspective on pop culture, which often serves as a key source of inspiration for my illusTRASHions (as I call them).
Who has the best butt in Hollywood?
Hollywood itself owns the award for curating world-class butts and plastic surgeons.
Humanity’s been obsessed with the derrière since cavemen were doodling it on cave walls.
Photos courtesy of Achraf Amiri
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