Fashions come and go in the art world, but the nude never goes out of style as far as artists are concerned. Because drawing a nude person is a privilege, a joy and a challenge, artists have gathered to draw unclothed models since at least as early as the 13th century. Drawing from the human form is a venerable tradition, but in this show, classical approaches mingle freely with contemporary experimental, mixed media, and digital techniques. And there are no 30-hour studies to be found here. Created in only 30 minutes or less, with no time for revision, these drawings expose the mind of the artist in the moment. Unlike artists in the solitude of their studios, artists in communal spaces find themselves as vulnerable to each other’s judgment as the model is, and they rely on the warm sense of support that manifests during the sessions.
Draw McColl Center has been encouraging artists and models since the first Tuesday night of 2023, and it, like Charlotte’s many life drawing studios, shows every sign of continuing to thrive. The exhibition, titled “It's like, nude!” is curated by Felicia van Bork, who is the host of Draw McColl Center, the open figure drawing studio that meets every Tuesday night from 6-9 p.m. in McColl Center’s ground floor Hub.
Exhibition Calendar
The show runs from February 1 to February 20, 2024, in McColl Center’s Main Gallery.
Thursday, February 1: Catered Opening Reception 6-9 p.m.
Thursday, February 1: Discussion and modeling lesson featuring professional figure models
Thursday, February 1: Free, open drawing session with clothed volunteer models. Easels and art supplies provided.
Saturday, February 3: Open Studio Saturday, 4-7 pm. Humorous figure drawing event featuring a performer wearing a giant, paper-mâché head
Saturday, February 10: Family day! Fun family art activities for toddlers, teens, and everyone in between.
Tuesday, February 20: Show closes.
Free parking is available around the corner in the lot at 158 W 10th Street.