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FIGURE AND PORTRAIT MODEL INFORMATION SHEET

At the New Salem Museum and Academy of Fine Art, we consider the professional work of figure and portrait models to be the bedrock of the Academy's mission in instructing and supporting our students. We are grateful for our models' contribution and creativity, and we welcome and encourage those of all genders, ages, ethnicities, and body shapes and sizes.
 

The following information is to help you prepare for your modeling sessions and to ensure the safety and well-being of all parties involved.

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REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

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  • Physical stamina: The ability to sit or stand and hold a pose for an extended period (only sitting for portrait models – this point matters more for figure modeling).

  • Professionalism: Following instructions and making adjustments/corrections when asked.

  • Punctuality: Arriving at the Academy on time

    • Portrait Sessions: Arrive 20 minutes early for first week to design the pose, 10 minutes early for other sessions

    • Figure Sessions: 30-40 minutes before the first session of a multi-week long pose figure to design the pose).

  • Cleanliness: Being showered and well-groomed.

  • Openness: Open to many people looking at and studying your face and/or unclothed body.

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THE MODEL SESION

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A single model session is usually 3 hours long (with occasional exceptions) and broken into 20-minute segments with a 5-minute break between each segment. There is a 10-15 minute break taken halfway through the session.

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The position of your feet, legs/arms, etc., and any props used during the session will be outlined in tape to help you return to the pose after each break and assist the Instructor or Monitor in resetting the pose. During these segments, the Instructor or Monitor may ask you to adjust the positioning of your feet, legs/arms, head, etc., to keep the pose consistent.

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BEST PRACTICES & PREPARATIONS

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  • Practice at Home: If you are new to modeling, we ask that you practice before first modeling session. Practicing some poses at home for at least 20 minutes will help you determine your stamina level.

  • Stamina: You know your body best. Having an idea of what pose(s) work for you will help the Instructor or Monitor choose a comfortable and suitable pose for both you and the art students.

  • Consistency: The more experienced you become, the more able you are to hold a relaxed, steady pose.

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 MOST IMPORTANTLY: HEALTH & SAFETY

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  • BE MINDFUL: Locking your knees for an extended period of time can cause fainting due to reduced blood flow back to the heart. We intend all our poses to be naturalistic and not forced into unhealthy positions. In standing poses, we often aim for contrapposto. 

  • Work Like an Athlete: Consider these sessions as a day at the gym or a heavy workout.

    • Arrive well-rested and prepared.

    • Bring water, snacks, and anything else you might need during scheduled sessions.

  • Communication: Discuss any challenges you have with the pose in advance so the Instructor or Monitor can make readjustments if needed.

  • Remember to BREATHE: Take equal, steady inhales and exhales to help you stay relaxed throughout the session.

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BREAK PROTOCOLS

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  • Recovery: Use your break to rest, stretch, elevate your legs, drink fluids, and eat a quick snack. These measures will better prepare you for future segments.

  • Attire: During breaks, models are required to wear clothing. We recommend a robe and sandals (or any slip-on shoe), as these items are easy to take on and off, helping to keep the session on schedule.

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We recognize the talent and effort our models put forth for NSMA, its instructors, and students. We greatly appreciate your contribution to and passion for furthering artistic development.

APPLY TO BE A MODEL

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