Moodeling at Doodler

My name is Paul, this page is simply information for all existing and prospective models to gauge if it’s for you or not. Doodler is a business centred on the idea of drawing, and a large part of that up to this point has involved life modelling. Models and their comfort therefore form an important part of any session. A large part of this is the unequivocal requirement of respect which we take very seriously. What we also respect here is the exploration of adult concepts.

We understand that a model at their best is able to be comfortable and feel safe whilst also being vulnerable. If anyone, but specifically a model is uncomfortable about anything then bring it up with Paul and we can address it appropriately and if need be immediately. I do not want a model to be embarrassed, so please bring up your concerns. This does not happen frequently, but being aware helps.

The mood of the model permeates through the venue, the artists and even to their drawings. That’s why we like to get a good “fit”. There are a lot of white walled, quiet, artistic venues available for those (models & artists) with traditional requirements. This is not one of those pristine churches of artistic dissemination. Doodler is a safe but playful pen of robust conversation and artistic exploration. Called “Doodler”, not because we are puerile, but because we need to laugh at life and its naturally occurring double entendres. The life drawing sessions are called "Nudenight”, not because we are rude, but because that is the most honest description of what goes on (although we now have sessions in the day). And yes both of those titles serve as signposts warning of the potential that the contents of this package may contain nuts (yeah this place thrives on bad puns).

Style is important (and I’m not talking fashion per se). The venue in general veers away from “classicism”, and overly formal posing unless in context. If you are going to do classic swan lake poses make sure you bring a swan. Doodler sees each session as not just a chance to learn and practice the craft of drawing, but to offer real world inspiration as a study for an artists potential further development. Delivering a simple relaxed real world moment is often so much more valuable than a spectacularly impossible contortion. Sure do some stupid shit occasionally, but only as contrast and fun, but sitting on a stool pulling a sock on is hard to beat.

Whilst the nude human form is paramount, occasional use of simple props and drapery/minimal clothing can help create dynamic focus, contrast and interesting narrative.

We are adults, we are scientists, some of us hold our pencils better than others, but we revel in it. Overall there is a “post-punk” style at play in the building. As in it’s truest form, the irreverent, hands on, do it yourself mentality that was entwined in this movement is dear to my heart, and that is the lesson I would like to share.

Further to that (and not a small part of Doodler), we physically play exciting interesting and eclectic music. This as an integral part of the session. Doodler is usually loud, but it can also at times be tear jerkingly quiet and peaceful. I (Paul/Stuntmullet) am also known for being quite vocal at times. It’s just part of the show. And no, we don’t take requests.

If that does not sound shit… We have a wide range of life drawing products at Doodler. Here is a run down:

Wednesday 7-9pm Nudenight. Nudenight is the original and standard model of life drawing. Short to medium length poses (1-20min). 3 sessions over 2hrs, Actual Pose times:
2x1min • 4x2min • 5x5min (5minBreak)
9min • 10min • 11min (10minBreak)
15min • 20min

Thursday 7-9pm Nudenight Longlounge. Pretty much the same as Wednesdays just slightly longer poses. Mid length poses (2-25min). 3 sessions over 2hrs, Actual Pose times:
2x2min • 3x5min • 2x8min (5minBreak)
10min • 15min (10minBreak)
15min • 25min

Friday 7-8.30pm Flickdraw. This is a fun night where we are trying to be more accessible to beginners and casual drawers, then we watch a movie (you are not expected to stay for that bit but you are welcome). The poses are very short, and all the models have actually used it as a fun kind of workout. No stress, just strike a pose. (30s-9min). 3 sessions over 1.5hrs, Indicative Pose times (I kind of make this night up as it unfolds:
2x1min • 2x2min • 2x5min • 9min (5minBreak)
2x1min • 2x2min • 2x5min • 9min (5minBreak)
1min • 2min • 3min • 5min • 2x 9min • 1min

Saturday 2.30-6.15pm Saturday Chunky. This is a new product which is just a normal drawing session divided into half hour chunks. Poses get progressively longer over the day finishing with a 1hr pose.
pose times:
Chunk 1 2.30-3: 3x2/4x5 : 5min Break*
Chunk 2
3-3.30: 7/8/9 *
Chunk 3
3.30-4: 10/15 *
Chunk 4
4-4.30: 25 *
Chunk 5 4.30-5: 25*This and the next are the same pose
Chunk 6 5.5-5.30: 25*
Chunk 7 5.30-6: Make Believe Man

Sunday 2.30-4.30pm NudeBQ. The same timing as Nudenight just with a BBQ thrown into the mix. Short to medium length poses (1-20min). 3 sessions over 2hrs, Actual Pose times:
2x1min • 4x2min • 5x5min (5minBreak)
9min • 10min • 11min (10minBreak)
15min • 20min

Modelling fees are based on first time models receiving $40/hr, and then on all subsequent sessions $50/hr. I also extend the courtesy of a free drink to all models in session.

Keeping in mind all that I’ve said above, we have a desire to have a wide range of models of differing racial, genders, age, etc. backgrounds. We do currently have a commercially based* skew towards female models, but I still am keeping my eye out for a 160kg male ocker.

So if you read some of that, made it this far, and are interested in modelling, please email. DO NOT email/sms/instagram me constantly, that will not help you.

 (*as well as being due to the fact that there is a glut which creates more stylistic choice in certain demographics)

Doodler Rules:

Doodler is an artistic space full of ideas whose freedom takes priority over many standard clichés of “moralism”. We have no aim to offend but If you find ideas that question rigid religious political &/or sexual/relational norms offensive this place may not be for you.

In this room we draw & paint live naked human beings.To help protect this space and the people in it we have a few basic rules:

1. This is an adult space don’t be a dick. Treat everyone like you would your own family.

2. No photo’s in session 

(unless express permission is given by management & arranged with the model).

To get the most out of our models we need them to feel comfortable. Working with digital media presents an extra challenge so please be aware of the working angle of your tablet in relation to it’s forward facing camera. In an effort to extend a message of respect of privacy we have also provided red stickers which you can place over the camera lens. This will help the model feel free and safe to give you the best life drawing experience. We also have supplied lens cleaner just in case you are concerned  about lens residue. Just trying to keep everyone happy.

3. Nudenight is not a quiet “shhh” kind of place but...

    ... be aware of other artists.

We encourage you to move around the space and find a great angle but just make sure you’re not obstructing anyones view. We’re all nice just chat it out. ...And if you want to have a chat with your friend just be aware... and maybe retiring to our salon/library area would be more comfortable for everyone.

4. Have fun. 

A quick note on health.

If you are booked in to model and are not well, let us know asap. We will endeavour to arrange a swap, or reschedule you at the soonest convenience. If you’ve got a cold, just look after yourself at home. If you are hungover, maybe play up to it. Dishevelled people are good to draw. If it is a visible injury which creates an interesting look, consider modelling with your cast(?)… Just let us know and we’ll cope.

If for whatever reason you are not feeling mentally up to it. Sometimes we just feel shit, and pressured, and life is just a little too much. Let us know asap. Have a cup of tea and a shower. Sleep it off, and if you want we can find another time for you.

If you are booked in to model and have your period. This happens all the time, and it’s your call as to how comfortable you are. Yes in large we are selling modelling of the nude, but we are also all adults and can cope if a model decides to wear something. My biggest concern is that if you feel a little crappy, then that comes across to the room, so I’d always prefer to have a model that was comfortable.

Menstruation has featured in art, it’s not a new thing. It would probably not be for everyone, but I would not be against making a feature of the situation. It’s reality, why do we hide it?

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t like swapping models out last minute, but given 24hrs it’s easy. Given a few hours it’s also not a problem. And ultimately your health and safety is far more important than 20-30 people waiting to draw your naked body. We’ll get over it, even if I have to model again (please don’t make me model again).

,