Is it sleazy to pose naked for a still-life painting class?

Answer 1

Hi:

It is a time honored practice, and I can guarantee that no real artist has this view. Some part of the general public may have a purient idea about it, but artists need live models of all shapes and sizes. Anyone who has the courage to perform this service is most appreciated. I've taken many life drawing classes, and I truly appreciate everyone who has contributed to this service.

I have known a few sort of creepy art students and professors, and as long as you're not really exceptional looking, you probably won't encounter any oddness or comments. My spouse did mention that one time he heard from another student that a stunning girl he said 'could have been in Playboy' came in once and I guess all of the male students couldn't really concentrate, and that girl never returned. I think this is probably out of the norm - it's pretty unforunate this happens, but it does occassionally.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

No, it's not sleazy. I would recommend sitting in on a class where live models are used, so you could see for yourself how professional and academic and downright clinical the atmosphere usually is---but you probably wouldn't be allowed into the room to watch! Respect for the model's comfort and privacy is very high, and outsiders and gawkers are definitely not welcome. And any student behaving in an immature or threatening manner around a model would be in a heap of trouble (and they know it).

I would advise against doing it if you're uncomfortable. Or if you plan to marry a politician later in life (but who wants to do that?) Just make sure it's a real class at a real school, and not a private session with one or two creeps who aren't really interested in teaching or learning...

Answer 3

I teach Life Drawing at a university. I have recently been interviewing models. Actually, this is the first time in 11 years I've even had to advertise for models (many are former or current students). From my experience as a student and a professor, I can say the models are treated with respect and professionalism. Drawing the figure is very difficult. Consequently, the student's minds are on the development of their drawings. If it's a class, I wouldn't worry.
If YOU feel okay about being nude and the venue is respectable but you are still unsure, talk to some of the models. I won't lie and say I have never encountered a creepy student, but in 11 years I could count them on one hand.

Answer 4

As artist and past undraped model for drawing classes it is not sleazy. In fact in terms of a better understanding of drawing the figure it helps by you getting to know where the tensions and weights of form are. Doing it made me a better artist and fed me through my art student days was $25/hr at one stage!

Answer 5

I DON'T THINK IT'S SLEAZY TO POSE NAKED FOR A CLASS. IF THE WORK IS BEING GRADED THEN ITS MORE LIKE A PROJECT. BUT TO POSE FOR NO REASON THATS A PROBLEM. I WOULDN'T FEEL SLEAZY IF THE CLASS WAS LEGIT.

Answer 6

Well not really in the right environment. It also depends how you pose them and for what purpose. Generally if there is a brass pole involved, you might be looking at sleazy

Anthony Pittarelli

Answer 7

Not generally. It depends upon the class, I suppose, but I have never been in any sleazy figure drawing classes.

Answer 8

No, if it is a legitimate school that maintains standards. There are some sleazy operations out there. Actually, still-life is the wrong term (that refers to fruit and flowers).

Answer 9

No My wife and I model nude all the time. It is very professional and beautiful. I have drawn my wife several times and have some really nice drawings. The human form is beautiful. It is only sleazy when abuse is involved.

NiF

Answer 10

no. in fact, i think it takes a lot of self-confidence and pride to pose naked for an art class.