Channel District: New class provides nude muses for artists
Beginning next week, Artists Unlimited will bring in models for weekly drawing sessions. Anyone may participate.
By BABITA PERSAUD
Published November 28, 2003
You bring the paint and pencils.
They'll supply the model.
Starting next week, Artists Unlimited, 223 N 12th St., will begin weekly drawing sessions with live nude models.
Anyone can participate, amateur or professional, said Erin Elizabeth "E.E." Cummings, director of education at Artists Unlimited, an old Channel District warehouse that has been converted into art studios.
Cummings hopes the sessions become a gathering spot for artists. Supplying the models will give artists of all levels more opportunity to practice basic drawing skills, she said.
The sessions will run from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays and cost $3 per class for members and $5 for nonmembers. Each will be self-directed - meaning without a teacher. Artists must bring all supplies, including an easel, clipboard or other hard surface.
Models, who will be hired by Artists Unlimited, will rotate each week between males and females.
Genie White started Artists Unlimited in 1989 as a place where artists could work, create art and show their works. At the time, there was no place like it in Tampa.
Artists Unlimited holds classes on pottery, photography, painting, drawing and stained-glass making. The suggestion to start live model classes came from Channel District artist Jeff Whipple, who said to Cummings one day: Why not start a drawing class?
Artists Unlimited isn't the only location offering such sessions.
The Tampa Museum of Art, 600 N Ashley Drive, has offered monthly figure drawing for years. The sessions, also self-directed, are held from 6 to 9 p.m. the third Thursday of every month. Cost is $5 for members and $7 for nonmembers. About a dozen people participate, said Lani Czyzewski, museum spokeswoman.
For information, call 229-5958 or visit www.ArtistsUnlimited.org For information on the Tampa Museum of Art classes, call 274-7328.
