What is Life Drawing?
Life drawing is the practice of drawing the human figure, typically nude, from a live model. It has been a core discipline for artists throughout history. In a modern studio life drawing session, artists arrange themselves around a stage on which a model takes a series of poses for varying durations of time. As the model proceeds through the poses, the artists attempt to capture the expression, movement, and three-dimensional form of the model onto a two-dimensional surface.
The practice of drawing from a live model offers a unique and challenging experience, the lessons from which can be difficult to replicate by other means. Drawing from life is essential to understanding how volume, mass, and light interact in physical space, and it helps you learn to avoid the many pitfalls and distortions of working from two-dimensional reference. The limitation of time forces you to hone your creative decision making, prioritize your marks, and more efficiently capture the essence of a pose. The energetic, expressive, and gestural marks that result from quick, confident artistic choices help to breathe life into the subject on the page. Regular practice will help you internalize the foundational principals of art and design, build confidence in handling complex poses, and lead you to an exploratory and meditative practice that supports your continuing artistic growth.
In addition to the technical benefits of a regular life drawing practice, the drawing studio offers a unique opportunity to work alongside, socialize with, and learn from artists from your local art community. Our group consists of members of all skill levels and disciplines seeking to improve their craft. We try to foster an environment of learning and growth that is open and supportive for both beginner and experienced artists.
Event Structure
Instruction
Our events are an open drawing format with no formal instruction. If you would like feedback on any of your work, you are welcome to invite the other artists to discuss your work during the longer breaks. Everyone is friendly and there's a range of all skill levels and abilities, so people are generally very supportive and encouraging.
People appreciate getting to see each other's work. If you leave your drawings out during breaks, people will come around and look at them, but it is optional to do so.
Pose Sequence
The pose sequences of our events may vary slightly between sessions, but we stick to the same general format. We always begin with ninety second gestures and increase incrementally up to around twenty-five minutes by the end. There is a fifteen minute break at the top of each hour and as needed to accommodate the model. We will occasionally do longer poses if the model is willing and time allows.
Here's an example of a typical pose sequence for a three hour session:
- (8) 90 sec gestures
- (3) 5 min
- (2) 10 min
- (1) 15 min
- — 15 min break —
- (2) 20-25 min
- — 15 min break —
- (1) pose with remainder of time, typically about 30 min
Seating
The facilitator will arrange some seating before the event to provide enough space for the typical number of attendees while keeping the walkways clear. You are welcome to adjust the seating or relocate for a better vantage point during a pose, so long as you are not too disruptive and you are respectful of the sight-lines and space of those around you.
Materials
You are expected to bring your own art supplies. The different facilities include different accommodations in terms of seating and easels which are listed in the venue portion of the event details on the homepage.
Etiquette
By attending a life drawing event, it is expected that you understand and adhere to the the following code of etiquette. In general, use common courtesy and respect the space and privacy of the model and your fellow artists.
Interacting With the Model
Models put themselves in a vulnerable position for the benefit of our work as artists, so treat the model with respect at all times. Comments and behavior that make the model uncomfortable will not be tolerated. Do not provide instruction or make requests of the model. All requests should be directed through the event facilitator.
Do not make comments on the model's body and appearance, even if well intended. Always maintain a comfortable distance from the model, at least 5–6 feet as a rule of thumb. Do not approach the model stand while the model is on it and do not touch the model under any circumstance. You are welcome to chat with the model during breaks, but you should allow the model to initiate the conversation. Avoid personal questions and always be kind and polite.
Photography
Photography is not permitted while the model is on the stand. No pictures may be taken of the model, clothed or otherwise. Requesting photos can put the model in an uncomfortable position and is not permitted. You are welcome to photograph your artwork during breaks once the model has fully covered up.
These are private events, so avoid photographing other members without their concent. Occasionally we will take group photos during breaks, but your involvement is voluntary.
Cell Phones
Cell phones should be stowed out of sight at all times while the model is on the stand out of respect for the model's privacy. If you must take a call or interact with your phone during the drawing portions of the event, you are welcome to step out of the room to do so.
Noise
Try to keep conversation and extraneous noise to a minimum during the drawing portions of the event to allow people to focus on their work.
Critiques
Refrain from offering unsolicited critiques.
Punctuality
Entering the studio and setting up your workspace after the drawing session has begun can be disruptive. It is best if you are at your stand and ready to draw within five minutes after the event has started. You are welcome to come in late if necessary, just be as quiet and courteous as possible.
Similarly, packing up and leaving early can be disruptive. You are welcome to leave the event early, but it is best to wait for either a break or a transitional moment between poses.
Music
The facilitator may play some ambient music on a speaker during the drawing portions of the event for background noise. You are welcome to bring headphones to play your own music as long as you avoid handling your phone while the model is on the stand.