Figure Drawing at the Society of Illustrators
Last night was my 3rd figure drawing session at the Society of Illustrators in New York City and I came home with 19 sketches, even though I really didn't like one of the two models. This was a new experience and I had to convince myself that I didn't need to like the model or their poses - it was all an opportunity to practice drawing.
The standard format is 10 two minute poses, 4 five minute poses, 2 ten minute poses, and 3 twenty minute poses, with breaks, over 3 hours. I'm posting one from each group.
This is the other model - small, really skinny, shaved head except for a circle of bright yellow short hair in a circle on the top of her head. However, it was the contorted positions that she took which I didn't like, except this one.
I loved the setting, really enjoyed the live piano and double bass music throughout the evening, and appreciated the glass of red wine while sketching.
Comments
I've been drawing the figure too, Shirley; twice weekly at Spring Studio in Soho. Another artist there also recommended the N.S. of I. sessions to me, noting the jazz and wine, so perhaps I'll see you there some time. I've been enjoying the drawing and learning a lot. Also I'm absorbed in the challenges of oil painting in an atelier-style class at the Art Students' League. Perhaps in January we can meet at the Met to sketch.
Deborah
Posted by: Deborah Silver | November 11, 2009 8:43 PM
Speed really is your thing here. I don't think I can draw anything remotely "physical" in under 2 minutes... perhaps a few stick figures ^^ but your outlines are awesome!
Posted by: Alex Tan | November 11, 2009 11:15 PM
You did very well indeed ! I love the way you captured the attitudes with so few lines.I've never tried figure drawing classes and sketching in such a short time must really be an experience !
Posted by: Martine | November 12, 2009 3:19 AM
It sounds like the best life drawing group ever! Nice work, Shirley.
Posted by: Casey | November 12, 2009 8:01 AM
These are wonderful, Shirley! May I ask how large you do your drawings? I've never been to a figure drawing class, and I'm thinking about it. It makes me just a little nervous since I have no formal training!
Posted by: Raena | November 12, 2009 9:49 AM
Great sketches!
Posted by: donna Noble | November 12, 2009 3:00 PM
Great sketching! -- seeing your sketches reminds me I've got to get back to doing this.
Posted by: Judy | November 12, 2009 9:11 PM
Sounds like a wonderful setting and you are turning out some great sketches. I find figure such a challange, i too am going to start back to a class next week. I think with figure I can have a good "night" and drawings come together then there is the 'off' night...which leaves me frustrated and the enthusiasuim weakens to go back. I applaud your return week after week and lookforward to you sharing more great work!
Posted by: Susan walker | November 13, 2009 2:27 PM
Great figures! I think that you are pretty good at this. The session sounds wonderful with live music and wine.
Posted by: Possum Patty | November 14, 2009 2:10 PM
What a cool experience! I am really amazed at how well the 2-minute sketch came out - that must have been tough.
Posted by: Dan Kent | November 14, 2009 10:19 PM