The link between food and sex is undeniable. But if science doesn’t do it for you, one need look no further than the work of Dallas-based artist Alexis Petruso. In her series of oil pastels, Foods & Nudes, Alexis deliberately separates the two concepts, only to reveal how strong that link actually is.

Whether a halved tomato or an undulating female, it’s Alexis’ signature style and the similar physiological reaction we tend to have for both subjects, that make it easy to see them as a cohesive series.

There is also something to be said about Alexis’ technique. Inspired by American Modernism and the Pop Art movement, she applies dozens of layers of oil pastels, then blends the colors with her bare fingers, getting quite dirty in the process.

More of Alexis’ work can be found on her site, or at her Etsy store.