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How to Find Work As a Life Model for Art

"The model is not to be copied, but to be realized," said Robert Henri. This simple statement places importance on the model and not just in the artist. Many painters and sculptors use life models in the creation of their work and several of the most recognizable pieces of classical art were crated with the aid of life models. As a creative form of modeling, this work can be both rewarding and challenging. With no shortage of aspiring artists and institutions to teach them, finding work as a life model is a real possibility. Once you become comfortable in the work, collaborating with professional artists is the next and most fulfilling step.

Instructions

    • 1

      Contact local art schools and art organizations. Look through a phone directory or read your local papers or community bulletins to find what institutions are serving the artistic community.

    • 2

      Look at the work of artists you admire. Examine the artist's work to see if he, or she, uses life models. If so, contact the artist. Explain that you are a model and are looking for work.

    • 3

      Attend art galleries and events. Make yourself known as a model to the gallery owner. Ask him, or her, to pass along your contact information to any artists' work you admire.

    • 4

      Master control over your physical and emotional state. Practice staying still and controlling your breathing for extended periods of time. Life models may sometimes pose nude for anywhere from a few minutes to over an hour with no break. You will have to condition yourself mentally to be able to remain focused during what may sometimes be monotonous work.

    • 5

      Practice creative poses. As a model you will often be allowed to create your own pose. Use your body to present interesting angles and symmetry of form. Enthusiastic and imaginative poses will often aid you in getting hired for jobs. The ability to create poses and give the artist "something to work with" is one of the most valuable assets a life model can have.

Sculpture

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