We often find the naked form sexy, and sometimes humorous; and yet, most life-drawing classes expect us to act unnaturally serious and professional. Luckily, Dr Sketchy was founded in 2005 by Molly Crabapple as an “anti-art school”, to cure us of our coyness.
The three-hour mix of burlesque, cabaret, life-drawing and competitions has been such a success that they now hold events in over 80 cities worldwide; the photo above comes from the London branch, which can also be found on Twitter.
We’ll leave you with their description of a Dr Sketchy evening:
We find the most beautiful burlesque dancers, the most bizarre circus freaks, and the most rippling hunks of man. Then, every other Saturday, we let you draw them for three hours. Interspersed with posing are comedy skits and ridiculous drawing contests (best left handed drawing? Best incorporation of a woodland animal?) where you can win booze or prizes.
Brilliant.
I am probably alone in thus, but as a woman, I am not remotely turned on by the male form, naked or clothed. I really do think nudity and arousal are in the solitary domain of men, as it’s how you’ve been conditioned. I’m glad burlesque allows people to be honest about it at least. I’ve never understood nude art classes either…