It is a challenge to be a first time model.
I help and co/register models for Perth based groups, and in particular Figure Arts Bassendean. [FAB] Please note that this information is designed for persons who are resident in Perth, Western Australia. I do not register or promote ‘temporary’ or ‘curious’ models who may be ‘visiting’ Perth. This is to support local models finding regular work.
If you are interested in being a model there are three things that Artists are looking for even before you take your clothes off. Reliability… you will arrive on time. Relaxation… you are not embarrassed and you can hold a pose.
Mostly artists want to be able to draw models who have a personal unaffected ‘presence’, They may be good at soft twists and bends, or angular actions, may be unfashionably ‘ripe’ looking, at ease, or have great features.
I personally prefer models without jewelry, tattoos, or make-up.
Art Groups are friendly open and,’ lets get on with it’ in their approach, highly considerate of the models and the contribution they make to their creativity.
For first timers, female and male, we may put you in contact with another model for some advice or arrange for a briefing. FAB is instigating a coaching process for models in order to maintains professionalism and protocol standards and consistent best practice in an expanding life drawing pastime ‘culture’. We may also arrange for you to sit in on a session and you can see how it works. Male models are getting more gigs these days so you are fit and well defined you will get work as artists often also use the male figure as a reference point to anatomy and proportion in their work. However male ‘character’ models are great to draw also. There are far fewer male models available than female so proportionally individual male model can do well if they are regularly available.
The going rate for nude modeling in Perth is between $110 to $110 for a three hour session. Private session are negotiable, usually less, but often preferred by some models. Modeling is partly seasonal as there is a break in group work sessions in January. There are sessions running somewhere in Perth every day or night of the week.
Currently in Perth there are around 25 consistent life drawing groups in operation although Covid may have had an impact on this. Go to the section ‘The Scene’ on this site for more information. It is not entirely up to date with every event in Perth due to Covid. Models come into this circuit through contact with participating artists and from there get recommended on to other groups. It takes a while to get regular gigs so its not quick money. There is a great Facebook page ‘Life Drawing in Perth’ that will leave you in no doubt that the Perth scene is very active.
Because Perth now has a ‘life drawing in Perth facebook page potential models can now readily make themselves known.
The information below is a good guide to what Artists want to know about models prior to hiring. If you are interested in modeling for my group [Figurse Arts Bassendean] there is information below.
Please Note; To ensure the integrity and privacy of the model there is a very strict protocols around passing on contact information.
Name and age.
Reasons for being a model
Honest description of body type and degree of fitness
Discrete photo
Experience at nude modeling
Mode of transport
Availability
Mobile number [if you choose] Email address or messenger response info.
If you are an applicant to Figure Arts Bassendean, please note, as above, that if you are an inexperienced model we may request a coaching session, prior to group work. This particularly applies to male applicants. Female applicants may be referred to a female coach. There is no payment made for these sessions or coaching. Carolyn Francis our bookings person can arrange coaching if nessecary. If you do not have a ‘professional’ photo we can arrange for quality pic at a coaching session on your phone to use with your details. We do not keep images of models.
Other avenues to apply are to the Art Departments of the local colleges and universities, who during term time use many models regularly. To do this work you will have need to gain experience first.
Try Curtin, ECU, UWA, Claremont Art College and TAFE