Ruslan “Russ” Karablin has been a made man in streetwear culture, fashion, and art for more than 20 years, since creating the brand SSUR in 1990 in response to the high demand for his paintings.

By applying graphics inspired by his artwork to T-shirts, he made it possible for both consumers and collectors to own his work. Now he directs his pioneering point of view toward an erotic pictorial starring Lena Nicole and Penthouse Pet Layla Sin.

Was there any hesitation on your part when Penthouse called you about this opportunity?

Quite the opposite. I was very excited about being involved in this. I’ve always been into pinups and the magazine itself. I’ve always considered myself to be pretty open-minded and liberal. It seemed like a great... Read More