Arcata Life Drawing Circle
Founded in 1997 by Steven Vander Meer, the drawing circle hosts weekly drop-in life drawing sessions featuring nude models in short and long poses, for artists in the Arcata and Humboldt County (California) area. We have a dedicated drawing room with heat, light, drawing horses and drawing boards. Please bring your own non-toxic drawing materials.
| Day | Time | Artist Fee | Model Pay | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thursday Evening | 7-9 | $5 | $30 +tips | 30-second and 60-second gestures followed by 5 and 10 minute poses, hosted by Steven Vander Meer |
| Friday Morning | 10-12 | $5 | $30 +tips | 30-second and 60-second gestures followed by 5 and 10 minute poses, hosted by Joyce Jonte |
| Tuesday Evening | 7-9 | $5 | $30 +tips | 10 one-minute poses and 4 twentyfive minute poses, hosted by Jim McGee and Joyce Jonte |
If you are going to drop in, please observe.....
- arrive early so as not to disturb the session once it has begun
- turn your cell phone off
- bring your own materials for drawing
- use materials that will not affect others (nothing stinky or dusty)
- be quiet
- smell good
- bring correct change
- don't bring a camera
- the drawing room does not have a waste basket - take everything you brought in
Location
1125 16th Street, Suite 105-D
Arcata, California
StewART Studios are located on the ground level of the old Stewart School Office Building, on the edge of Stewart Park. It's up near Arcata High School. Enter the parking lot from "L" street between 15th and 16th. Enter building on the ground level through the doors beneath the stairs, then look for #105 - it's a gray hallway / art gallery. The drawing room is about two thirds of the way down on the left. Please arrive early enough to get set up before the session begins.
Printable Map & Directions
Modeling Info
How do you become an artist's model? Here are some web sites that answer questions about nude modeling better than I could. The first one has lot's of really good info that is essential to the job - be sure to read it carefully before contacting us.
- How to Become An Artist's Model (borsheimarts.com)
- Questions and Answers (borsheimarts.com)
- R.A.M. (ugly, but informative site)
- R.A.M. Guidelines for life models & employers
- Wikipedia: Art Modeling
- Lots and lots of links (figuredrawings.com)
How to Model for us at StewArt Studios
First, drop by and introduce yourself. The best time is between noon and 12:30 p.m. on any Friday, after the Friday morning drop-in session. The second best time is between 6:30 and 6:45 p.m. on any Thursday, before the Thursday evening session. It's a good idea to send an email first so we know when to expect you.
Next, schedule a practice or "orientation" session with the drawing group hosts - Joyce Jonté and Steven Vander Meer. This unpaid and non-public drawing session lasts one or two hours, depending on your experience. It will give us a good idea of how you are to work with, and it will give you the same about us.
Last, model for one of our drawing groups! We usually have an extensive list of available models, including our regulars who get the most work. You may have to work your way up to being a "regular", but it's not that hard -- if -- you are easy to communicate with, you show up at the right time, and you are enthusiastic about the work.
Please email us with any questions:steven@meerimage.com
**Previous modelling experience is not necessary; we can teach you everything you need to know, including "drawing room etiquette" and how to do dozens of poses in a very short time without being repetitive. The main things you need are a positive attitude, lots of energy and self-confidence. It also helps to have expressive body language, a healthy self image and a real love of art.
