Life Models

"See from the first your proportions, and do not lose them" Matisse

We work in the tradition of the old masters. We sculpt the unclad form first, resolving every muscle and every subtlety of the figure before it is clad. The figure is always worked directly from life models. The structure of their muscles and bones is hand modelled into the clay. This ensures authenticity and energy in the finished sculpture. Our life models over the years have been a wonderful contribution to the life of the studios.
We spend many hours together, working, talking and listening to music.

We demand a lot of the models. They are measured, photographed and measured again. They are required to go back into position very precisely after every break.
The poses are strenuous. Even a very simple pose becomes painful after hours of holding it. For the athletic or very dynamic poses it can become painful within minutes.

Many of our models are dancers or athletes, core strength and body knowledge is essential.

Face models are sought who resemble the subjects of historic portraits. Less strenuous then body modelling work, it is none the less demanding of time and patience. It is essential to work from live models even when there are dozens of photographs of the subject, so as to bring a warmth, authenticity and character into a face.

There is something profoundly human in this process of capturing a face and a figure. It is a process that unmasks the soul. Our models have brought their vivid personalities, their warmth, their vulnerability, their unique selves to the sculptures we have made together. For their gifts we are profoundly grateful.

Life models
Life models
Life models
Life Models
Still Watch
Still Watch
Still Watch
Still Watch