Job as a Life Model; either nude/non.?

Question

I am currently an art student & am considering a side job as a "life model" for either classroom projects/individual artists; however, I haven't a clue on where to start or what to expect...any ideas/opinions?

Answer 1

My wife and I both model. Most of the work is nude. poses range any where for 30 seconds to total sessions, you will get breaks in there. Many schools will not hire a current student, but there are usually other schools around. Contact their art department. Also, check out any art clubs or groups. They will pool money together to hire a model for a session.
Good Luck, let us know how it goes.

Answer 2

To ensure you have the best experience, find a reputable class through your local art society. Often art groups will gather informally and hire a model, but as a beginner, you'll need some tuition, and it is worth paying the extra for a teacher. You should be able to tell that the class you are attending is professionally run, with the model treated respectfully and the students working diligently. If you feel in any way uncomfortable, speak to the co-ordinator, and if need be, find a different class.

Overcoming Shyness:
There's no need to feel shy or embarrassed at your life drawing class. Professional models are used to posing nude and being observed by the artist. The model is not to be touched at any time, but the teacher may strike a pose themselves to demonstrate how they want the model to be placed. Poses should always be tasteful, in the manner of classical art - life class is not the place for 'pushing boundaries' or risque poses. You'll find that you are soon so focussed on the problems of drawing the body as a collection of lines or values that you'll forget any awkwardness about nudity.

What You'll Need:
Most classes will provide easels and drawing boards, and you'll need to bring paper (usually large, inexpensive 'butcher's paper' - newsprint - for starters), charcoal, a kneadable eraser, and perhaps bulldog clips to hold your paper - but this may vary depending on the class, so check materials requirements when you enrol. Make sure you have plenty of paper. Its also handy to have some wipes or a rag to clean your hands, and a snack.





Good luck in your artistic endeavors
Check out the web-link below for more ideas:

Answer 3

Keeping in mind that your safety is paramount, I suggest two paths.

Contact the local college art departments and let them know of your interest. Virtually all assignments will be in classroom that are, both, private enough to not have worries about exposure to the general public, and yet, public enough that there is little danger of sexual harassment, or worse.

Another approach is to find local modeling agencies that cater to artists. By being registered, you can be assured of getting assignments, and, that the jobs you get sent on will be on record, in case of problems.

To come across as a professional, be sure to have a "repretoire" of poses. (at least a dozen) Look up as many classical art poses, both from photos and illustrations. Practice these to find comfortable positions for comfort in long sessions. Also, expect to be asked to go through several minutes of "quick" poses for art student exercises. Develope a "routine" of these, so that you don't waste your client's time "thinking" about what you will do next. Also, be ready to modify any pose you strike to suit the artist's needs.

May I suggest that you insist on, initially, disrobing in a private, screened off space or adjoining closet. Enter the classroom or studio in a robe. Use it during short breaks, rather than just sitting around naked when not posing.

Keep in mind that you are providing a very necessary and valuable service to your client. You should act like a professional, and should be treated like one.

Be careful, and good luck.

Answer 4

classroom usually advertises very locally, posters on the bulletin board.

individual artists usually get someone they know, they don't pay much, this is their favorite come on line

Creepy guys pretending to be artists that will offer to put you on the net, you can find them anywhere there are personal ads.

Answer 5

If you can sit still for extended periods of time, then it's for you. At least in the classroom, the model is respected, and while everyone will notice your assets, they'll all be too busy trying to draw them to mention it. (and even if they do, it'll be how awesome you are.)