An art model is someone who poses, usually nude, for an artist or group of artists while they practice drawing or work towards a finished piece. An art model should have a great deal of patience and self confidence, and be able hold poses for extended periods of time. Modeling is hard work, and art models deserve respect and fair compensation.

In visual art, the nude is a form. Like the 4 movement symphony in music or the hero’s journey in film and literature, the nude is one of many visual forms that have inspired artists through the centuries. A nude body, more emphatically than a clothed one, serves as a symbol of the human being in the eternal, rather than merely an individual. Clothing can have the effect of fixing an image to a particular time. A figure of Velazquez dressed as a 17th century aristocrat may seem less relatable to us today. But a nude of Velazquez is as relatable today as the day it was painted.

Yes! Anybody can be an art model as long as they’re at least 18 years old. Art modeling has nothing to do with fashion modeling. Artists benefit from studying every kind of model they encounter. They look forward to observing differences in weight, musculature, gender, race, age, etc. It’s all great practice.

No. Models often pose in costumes. Even if you’re only comfortable modeling in plain clothes you’re still encouraged to sign up. You can indicate your preference on your profile. Life drawing groups prefer nude models, but if none are available they will be happy to get someone in to pose.

Every great artist from every century has worked from live, mostly nude models. The human body is the most familiar yet difficult thing to draw. Practicing to understand the proportions, shapes, and rhythm of the human form is the surest way to improve all areas of one’s artistic skills. Experienced artists know that to truly understand the human form you must study it live, in three dimensions, rather than from photographs.

Good poses usually show the rhythm and movement of the human form, even while at rest. The simplest approach is to show twists at the major axes. For example, the head might be facing a different direction than the chest, and the chest might be facing a different direction than the pelvis, etc. Good poses often show the body distributing weight unequally, for example 80% of your weight on one foot and 20% on the other. These are the principles of  ‘contrapposto,’ the ancient Greek innovation that made their figures feel alive with movement, compared with the rigid figures of the ancient Egyptians.

Typical life sessions last around 3 hours. Most groups divide that time into many different poses: 1 minute, 5 minute, 10 minute, 20 minute, and 45 minute poses, for example. Some groups prefer to study the same pose for the entire session with a short break every 15 minutes. Art models always have the option to take a short break any time they need. 

Modeling is different for every person. Some find it meditative, some enjoy the physical challenge, some find it empowering and freeing. Most models find it fulfilling to be part of the creative process, and many models are artists themselves. Life sessions are quiet, laid back, and hopefully stress-free events. 

No problem! The artists will kindly help you throughout the session. People of all experience levels are invited to become art models.

Models should bring a robe to wear on breaks. They can also bring any costumes if needed. Artists should have everything else, including props and lighting. If they’re really cool they will provide refreshments.

Modeling can be a great way to earn some extra income even if you’re only in Alaska for part of the year. We ask that you indicate your seasonal status on your profile. If you like, you can contact the site admin to temporarily hide your account while you’re out of town.

No. You’re in control of all the images you upload to the site. We ask that you upload a photo headshot, but please DO NOT upload any nude photos of yourself. We encourage you to fill your profile with drawings or paintings from life modeling sessions, and only those you’re comfortable with sharing online. You don’t have to use your real name on your profile if you choose not to.

No problem, don’t post your email address in your ‘about’ section. You must provide your email address when registering, but it will be set up on the site as a contact form. Artists can use the contact form to get in touch with you, and you can decide whether or not you want to email them back.

Payment for a 3 hour life session is usually $60, or $20 per hour. Some groups pay more, some pay less. If you decide to work with individual artists, you should agree on the payment before beginning the session.

Absolutely. Some models only feel comfortable working in public spaces like universities or community centers. Other models feel more comfortable working one-on-one with individuals in their studios. As a model you are completely in control of who you contact and work with, and if you have a preference you can indicate it on your model profile.

When accepting a new modeling gig, always be aware of your personal safety and make sure you feel comfortable with those you’re working with. This website connects artists and models but the admin has no access to any conversations, which are done offsite through email. It’s up to you to stay safe out there!

It’s up to you. If you’re working with a drawing group or university it’s likely that there will be many short poses within the session. Because of this, it would be useful for you to know a handful of basic academic poses so you can quickly switch between them. Just do a quick search online for ideas. 

Any community will benefit from having willing models, many just don’t know where to look. We hope to grow this site to make it a resource for all of Alaska. Check the Life Sessions page on this site to see info about regular sessions near you. If you know of a session going on in the state that’s not listed here, please let us know!

This site is designed to connect artists and models, all actual arrangements and payments are done offsite. Most models are paid cash at the end the session.