Figure Drawing Model Etiquette

Every profession has a culture of do's and don'ts. As our society broadens its awareness of various experiences and respectful choice of language and decorum, let's get familiar with professional etiquette during figure drawing sessions albeit with a clothed or nude model. The same etiquette applies to both.

The Robe

Models are expected to disrobe in a separate space. In other words, not in front of the class. They will don their robe until the class begins and again during any breaks. At the end of the session, they will return to the separate space in order to put on their clothes again.

Why do models do this if the class is going to be drawing or painting their nude form anyways? This is because the act of taking off or putting on clothing can be more suggestive (as modern day media will demonstrate). By doing this out of sight, it keeps the focus on art. From a practical perspective, this also gives the model a moment to shift their mindset, use the restroom, or adjust anything before starting the session. Donning on their robe during breaks helps attendees feel comfortable, especially if the model wants to stretch, rest, or take a look at various artworks in progress -with the artist's permission.

Do Not Touch

Whether it's a porcelain china shop or a model at work -keep your hands to yourself! Only the proctor of the session is allowed to touch the model and only with explicit permission from the model themselves.

Due to my own past experiences, I do not like to be touched without knowing who is approaching me. Communication is key.

Objective Art Speak

Keep your comments about the model art focused, using terms such as light, shadow, contour, rhythm, line of motion and the like. Comments about a model's physical appearance or any physical attribute should never be spoken by anyone. The model is in a very vulnerable position. Many become models to improve their self image or for other reasons. Making comments about physical features are subjective and detract from the purpose of the class. Keep all comments objective, specifically by using art terms.

Generally, it is encouraged that only the proctor speaks directly with the model. This ensures proper methods of communication and decorum, with the model.

Avoid Names

In some classes, the model's real name is omitted, and the model is never tagged in any art posted online. In the past, some models have had stalkers, which is why this practice has developed at these locations.

When I began modeling, I used the name, "Ra'ah" since I was not ready to come out to my family that figure drawing modeling was a part of my life. This pseudonym was both to protect myself as well as my family's reputation as some members of the community may misunderstand the nature of modeling and its value in the art community. I have known other models who have also used pseudonyms for similar reasons.

If in doubt, always default to discretion unless otherwise informed by the model.

Why is there so much emphasis on the "proper" way to interact with figure drawing models? Why can't we just make art however we please? Because models are human beings, much like yourself. As human beings, we all have various experiences, some of which include traumas, self-image and self-worth struggles, as well as other experiences. We don't know what we don't know and because of this we can unintentionally cause someone else to spiral into a panic attack or a resurgence of PTSD. I have known and worked alongside models who, to illustrate only a few examples, were undergoing serious medical procedures, had scars from previous medical surgeries, working on overcoming self-harm, were in abusive relationships, or could not be approached from behind without their PTSD triggering.

We all have our own history and growth opportunities. Model etiquette helps us respect all models as well as attendees, establishing a safe and trusting environment in which art can flourish.