I organize weekly figure drawing sessions at Enoch’s Arts & Coffee in Manhattan. Drawing is every Monday from 6:30–9:00 PM-ish.
Where: Enoch’s Arts & Coffee (map), 480 10th Avenue, New York, NY 10018 (A/C/E and 7 trains)
Cost: $20, pay at the door cash or Venmo, no rsvp, byob
Bring your own art supplies. Follow @artdblockdotorg. I usually post a story announcing the Monday’s model during the weekend.
FAQ
I can’t draw well. Should I still come? Yes, enthusiastically. We don’t expect you to draw well and see a lot more beginners than professionals.
What are the rules during drawing? No photos of the model, no talking during poses.
What is the session format? Drawing is 5x1min + 3x5min, break, 2x5min + 1x10min, break, 2x10min, and finally 2x20min poses with a break in between. We play music.
Is the model nude? Yes.
Are models male or female? Both. We have female and male models.
What should I bring? Sketch pad or paper, pencils or charcoal, eraser, and a sharpener. We supply a couple of bottles of wine, free, and encourage you to bring your own if you would like to share.
Do you have extra art supplies? Yes, we do, and art supplies are free. Please do bring your own if you can.
Can I come late? Yes, please walk in quietly or wait for a break.
Is the coffee shop open during drawing? It is not, but you may be able to buy a coffee during the break if the barista is drawing with us, which happens often.
I’m a poor student and don’t have $20, can I pay less? Yes, pay what you can or even nothing, and please don’t worry about it. We will make our millions on the back of others.
FAQ for Models
How can I sign up to pose? Please e-mail Daniel at drawing[at]dblock[dot]org. Mention whether you have prior experience, attach a photo and/or your social media if you have any. Please note that we currently aren’t looking for male models. You will receive some possible dates that are likely to be a few months from now. I will confirm and send you a calendar invite.
How much does posing pay? We pay models $140 cash or Venmo, your choice. Since this is somewhat higher than other sessions, we don’t have a tip jar.
How is the session structured? I explain the house rules (no photos, no talking). Timing is as follows: 5 × 1-minute poses, 3 × 5-minute poses, break, 2 × 5-minute poses, 1 × 10-minute pose, break, 2 × 10-minute poses, break, 2 × 20-minute poses.
What should I bring? A robe or cover-up (for before the session and breaks).
How should I prepare? Practice at home — stand in front of a mirror, set a timer, and gauge how it feels to hold various positions for different lengths of time.
How should I pose? Your first poses should be full of movement. Face a different direction for each new pose. For inspiration, draw from your own body and features, art and fashion, sports and movement, and sensuality. Plan to do standing poses for at least the first two 20-minute intervals.
Any final tips? Take a couple of seconds to find each pose. Trust the organizer to start the timer once you’ve settled. Be still. For longer poses, it’s okay to adjust and return to a pose if needed.
Does this have anything to do with Drawing with Russians? It does not, please see drawingwithrussians.com for more information.