FIGURE DRAWING CLASS ETIQUETTE CONTRACT

Figure Drawing, nude or clothed, is a sacred and sensitive practice, for both models and artists. It is of utmost importance, and it is expected and understood, that everyone adheres to the following code of etiquette.

ARTISTS/STUDENTS:

• Do NOT take photographs of the model, do not ask the model if you can take a photo. This is a violation and unacceptable, and even the request can make the model uncomfortable.
• Do NOT touch the model, NO exceptions. This applies in both group and private drawing sessions.
• Do NOT invade the model’s personal space. This includes sitting on the model’s stand any time the model is on it. This also includes anytime you see the model before, during, or after the session, in any environment. Keeping a minimum 5-6 feet of distance is a good rule of thumb.
• Do NOT speak with the model unless first spoken to. This applies before, during, or after a drawing session. Other than a polite “hello” in a hallway, or a “thank you” at the end of the session, there is no reason to approach or talk to a model – maintaining this invisible boundary is important to allowing the model to feel safe and comfortable in an otherwise vulnerable position. If a model is comfortable, they may approach you about your work, but this interaction should never be initiated by the artist. If you have a question, see the instructor/facilitator of your session.
• Do NOT ask the model out on a date or ask any personal questions. This is a professional environment and should be treated as such at all times. This is not a social environment for artists and models, this is working time for artists and the model is at work as well.
• Do NOT talk about the artist or comment on their body or appearance. If you would like to compliment the models’ work, keep language in a drawing-sense rather than referring to beauty, and refer to the instructor/facilitator to convey compliments or to ask for guidance.

Almost all life drawing studio etiquette is based around respect for the model. Remember, the model is putting themselves in a vulnerable position for the benefit of the artists.

What CAN you do? Draw! Create! Learn! Talk to other artists. Talk to your instructor/facilitator. Treat this as a professional environment – consider everyone participating with you to be a co-worker and treat them with the utmost professionalism and respect. This will allow for everyone to continue to create and learn in a safe space.

—————————————————————————————————————————–

INSTRUCTORS / FACILITATORS AGREE TO THE FOLLOWING:

• To make models as comfortable as possible with the room and the class participants. Anything/Anyone that makes a model uncomfortable will not be tolerated – artists may be asked to leave, temperature and music may be adjusted, models may take breaks as needed, models may refuse any uncomfortable poses, etc.
• Non-Artists are not permitted in the room – they may not join the class, pass through, or otherwise interrupt or participate in a session.
• To pay the model – all payments to the model will go through the instructor/facilitator.
• To keep time and use electronics/phones appropriately. Be aware of music choices. Keep personal phone business outside of class.

MODELS

• Be present and on-time. If something unexpected happens, notify the instructor/facilitator immediately so we can try to book another model.
• Bring a robe or other cover-up to change into and use between poses and on breaks
• Do NOT be conversational while modeling – speak to the instructor/facilitator as needed to communicate needs and questions, refrain from speaking to artists unless necessary.
• Ask before photographing and sharing an artist’s work on social media – always give credit to the artist by tagging or linking to their professional site/page/account.

EVERYONE

Be kind and polite, and all will be well. Don’t critique work unless asked, this goes for artists and models.

Please sign below to indicate that you have read and understand our Figure Drawing Class Etiquette.