The Art Model's Handbook: The Naked Truth about Posing for Art Classes and Fine Artists

by Andrew Cahner

The nude figure has been the subject of art for centuries and continues to inspire contemporary artists. Figure drawing is part of the core curriculum at art schools and college art departments. Art models young and old play an important role in this creative process. So how does one learn how to become an art model? The Art Model's Handbook explains what you need to know to model for art classes and professional artists. You'll learn about the structure of figure drawing sessions, how to come up with interesting poses, costume modeling, professional conduct, finding work, and security concerns. Awkward but important questions about nudity and body issues are addressed. Guidelines for faculty and sample policies are also included. The book is based on the experience of the author, plus interviews with male and female models, artists, fine art photographers, and art school management. This is the definitive guide for art models, artists, and workshop leaders.

Genres: Art

148 pages, Paperback

First published May 17, 2009

Reviews

[D.H. Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been an art model for almost 39 years now, so I've seen and heard almost everything in this book. What I do like is that it gives perspectives from all sides: male models, female models, model coordinators, art teachers, photographers, etc. There's not much it really taught me since I've been doing this so long, but this book would be invaluable to someone just getting into modeling. I wish I'd had a book like this when I started. I had only been to two drawing sessions before I modeled for the first time. In the sessions I had been to, the models hadn't even had robes, so I didn't wear one my first few times either. It was a learn as you go process for me. If I'd had a book like this, I would have been more professional and probably gotten more jobs. Modeling for drawing and painting classes is something I dearly love, and I hope to be doing it for many more years...

[Parka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here's a book on fine art modeling written by Andrew Cahner, who's an art model himself. This is a handbook aimed at helping other art models who might not have proper training. He writes not just from the perspective of a model but also that of an artist.

The book is loaded of tips from the author's own experience. You'll read about topics like resuming poses, keeping awake, choosing poses, finding jobs, staying safe, networking in the industry, etc. There are even details like how to file taxes — gasp! — as a model —, or (elastic band) clothing to avoid before a photo shoot. It's all practical tips everyone can relate to.

Andrew Cahner has also included interviews with a model booker, a male model, a female model and a photographer. They give really great insights into the dos and don'ts of modeling, tips on professionalism and other issues on the job. Different perspectives sure help give a clearer view on what it's like to be a model.

There are a lot of resources provided throughout the book. It includes places and websites where you can find more information. The appendixes also come with very handy forms like model release forms, protocol and important guidelines.

This book is like an informative and interesting documentary. I learned a lot even though I'm not a model and not going into modeling. It's recommended to models, would-be models and people who work with models.

You can find more information about the book at artmodelbook.com as well as download a some sample chapters. The author Andrew Cahner is on Twitter as well.

[ALICIA MOGOLLON · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's definitely a lot of useful as well as a bit of opinionated nonsense. Worth the read for an inspiring art model just don't take any of the supposed rules of conduct as set in stone. As an art model I believe my comfort is ultimately more important than an artist's schedule or preferences. And I have found most artists I work with are reasonable and understanding of this. So I'd say read what the guy has to say, but also know, that you are the product that is being sold in such an arrangement and there is nothing wrong with asserting yourself. And of course as with any client relationship, you will have to figure out the best, most reasonable way of doing that.

[Zodiac Mindwarp · Rating 5 out of 5]

This handbook covers everything one needs to know if they are interested in becoming an art model.

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite thorough and most helpful!