Life Drawing

My first life drawing experience was during my foundation diploma in 2012. I continued attending the odd session with some friends at university. It’s fair to say in those earlier years there were many naive giggles - although when a model poses in front of you with toilet tissue trapped between their cheeks you’re bound to laugh, right? Yet I continued to show up and draw.

When I began teaching in 2021, I was amazed that the school offered weekly life drawing sessions to the sixth form art students. The models encouraged students to be mature and they responded well - producing some wonderful studies in response to a range of poses. Seeing their confidence and focus grow in that space reminded me of the captivating activity it is.

So, I returned to local classes, this time taking my mum along. She hadn’t sat to draw in 40 years but I convinced her of the relaxing atmosphere, non-judgemental space, and the empowerment of letting go and not fearing mistakes. From wonky eyes, to weirdly hairy looking feet - we’ve made many mistakes, but joining the class hasn’t been one. Our confidence, technique and observational skill continually improve.

I enjoy turning up, some weeks creatively and others not so much. Some weeks frustrated, some weeks indifferent to the outcome. Whatever I achieve, I enjoy being in this studious environment. An atmosphere similar to spaces like libraries and museums - yet there is a model who owns the room, and the artists are focused.

The art teacher in me can’t help but try out different drawing techniques. This keeps things interesting for me - and my inability to do the same thing for more than 30 minutes thanks me.

The human body is captivating and beautiful. For artists, it always has been. I encourage anyone looking to switch off and escape the everyday to try it.