Attending a Figure Drawing Class

If you include human figures in your drawings or paintings, drawing them from life is the best way to improve. To draw clothed figures, you need to understand the anatomy underneath the clothing. Figure drawing, also called life drawing, is also essential for anyone aiming for a career in animation. Apart from that, figure drawing is also interesting, challenging and enjoyable. Read this article on attending figure drawing classes and find out what its all about.

A reader recently asked if they could attend a figure drawing class, despite being 'young'. Appropriate age is a matter of law in some countries and states, while in other places, it is purely for the individual and their parents or guardians to decide if they are old enough to participate in a life drawing class. Check with your local authorities to find out which applies to you. You must also take into consideration the model's view: they may not feel comfortable modeling with a minor in the room. I would suggest erring on the conservative side - there is plenty of artistic challenge to be found in drawing the clothed figure, and using an anatomy textbook. As one forum member suggested, you can find plenty of scantily-clad models in advertising images to work from (which, ironically, would probably be less appropriate viewing than a nude, but natural and honest life model.)