Fruit bowls may be shapely and colorful, but nothing tests artistic skill like living, breathing models. Having trouble finding a willing participant to let you sketch? Look no further – Clockworks Café and Cultural Center is hosting live model events once a month.
“It’s one of those things; not a lot of people have access or know how to arrange for access,” said Carlee Wright, communications director of Culture Shock Community Project. “We have photographers, fine arts artists, sketchers, painters, anyone can come down and practice.” So far the idea is popular, and the new event has a following.
Nina Nightshade, a burlesque performer and model, is helping to facilitate the artistic expression. “Portland and bigger cities have events like these. But Salem needed a family-friendly event,” said Nightshade. “I have participated in events such as Dr. Sketchies; it’s an over-21 crowd with live models and cabaret-style shows. It’s as much or little dress as you want. Our live model night is based on the same idea, but a little more PG, with no nudity or alcohol.”
Each hour will feature a different model. “Start with warm-up sketches of three-minute poses and a final pose of twenty minutes,” said Nightshade. “The event is free; we just ask that people tip the models.” The event runs two hours.
Hosts and organizers agree that although artists have shown up, reaching out to the art community has been difficult. So far the models have been easy to find. “For some of the models, they come just for the experience of doing it. They are not professionals; they like seeing the artwork they inspired.”
For August, Nightshade has lined up a pregnant couple. “The man and woman are involved in the burlesque community and have volunteered to come,” said Nightshade. “They perform under the name Swing Tease. We are going to get them on stage together for some of it. It’s an opportunity to have a complete different body type to work around. It should be fun. It will be fun to have her and her big belly. They are very excited about being pregnant and I think that excitement will show up in the art.”
Ready to give live model sketching a try?
Clockworks Café and Cultural Center
241 Commercial St. NE
Second Saturday of the month from 1-3 p.m.
