Life Drawing in London for Adults with Early Masterworks

London is a hub of world-class creativity, and life drawing offers a unique way to tap into that artistic energy and dynamic creative community.

The Early Masterworks (EM) Life Drawing Club provides a welcoming and warm environment for individuals of all backgrounds, demographics, and skill levels at this creative social event where participants can meet, drink, draw, and create together! We do not instruct; instead, we invite participants to share. We believe that art connects people, and interactions improve creativity!

Early Masterworks now hosts life-drawing gatherings at two regular locations. This guide will address all your enquiries and assist you in determining if the Early Masterworks Life Drawing Club is the right choice for you.

What Are the Various Factors to Take Into Account When Selecting a Life Drawing Club in London?

Choosing the right life drawing club or class in London can significantly impact your experience. With a vast and varied scene, it’s worth considering several factors to find the perfect fit for your goals, budget, and personality.

Here are the key factors to take into account when selecting a life drawing class in London:

Themed vs. Unthemed (Traditional)

We frequently theme our sessions. The host’s creative and personal background heavily influences the theme’s style. In the past, we had themes influenced by major ongoing exhibitions, such as ‘Psychogeography of Ithell Colquhoun’; art movements like ‘Bauhaus’; creative crossover themes, such as ‘Life Drawing x Live Music Jazz Night’; movie-influenced themes, like ‘Black Futurism’; theatre themes, like ‘The Double Artist’; and fundraising themes, such as for The Pink Ribbon Foundation, The Listening Place and Fertility Network UK.

• Unthemed (Traditional): Artists have practised this classic, foundational form of life drawing for centuries. The primary goal is the direct, unfiltered study of the human form. The session is centred around understanding anatomy, proportions, volume, light, and shadow in the body. The session features a professional life model. The poses are often classical in nature (reclining, standing, or seated) and are chosen to help artists study muscle structure, weight distribution, and foreshortening.
• Themed: This version is a more modern, creative, and often playful interpretation of the traditional practice. It adds a narrative, purposeful, or aesthetic layer to the session. The goal shifts from purely anatomical study to creative interpretation, storytelling, and capturing a specific mood or character. It’s less about technical accuracy and more about expression and imagination. These sessions are often more creative, social, experimental, and less formal than traditional classes.

Tutored vs. Untutored Sessions

Our sessions are all untutored because we believe real drawing is thinking, and everyone should be thinking different things even when we are facing the same drawing object.

We ensure that everyone learns something new and tries something different at the end of the session by providing an inspiring theme, open-ended prompts, art references from past masters, and opportunities to learn from each other.

Many of our regulars told us they came to us because they had tutors from other clubs tell them they were drawing everything wrong, which was a stressful experience, and we want to do our best to avoid that.

• Tutored Classes: These are ideal for serious artists looking to improve specific skills. An instructor provides guidance, sets exercises, and offers feedback. This choice is a great option if you want a structured learning environment.
• Untutored Sessions: Perfect for hobbyists, professionals, and anyone who wants a relaxed, self-directed practice. There’s no formal instruction, but the host and other creatives are always happy to share a tip. This type of life drawing session offers more freedom but requires curiosity and self-motivation.

Who is the Host?

The life drawing host is the architect of the experience. They are far more than just an administrator who takes payment and times poses; they are the curator, guardian, and community-builder of the event. You will probably know if you like the life drawing the moment you have a few exchanges with the host. Also, the hosts tend to attract a community that shares a similar age range, creative background and even gender roles.

Rose, the founder of Early Masterworks, was from Hong Kong and trained as an architect. She has a very international background and has lived, studied studied, and worked in six major international cities: Tokyo, NYC, Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai,don. The current community is with a well-balanced group of creatives of all ages and cultural backgrounds, from students to professionals to retirees.

For Early Masterworks, we also have a guest host club that allows our regulars to take turns hosting and sharing their passion with others in the community. The vision is to expand our creative horizons together and dive into realms we haven’t explored before. Imagine: life drawing + unique cultural backgrounds, creative materials such as words/lyrics/clay/poems, quirky niche interests, or groundbreaking new formats! 

Class Format and Structure

Our sessions are all drop-ins, but more than one-third of our participants are regulars; they attend every session to practise.

• Drop-In Sessions: The most common format in London, offering maximum flexibility. You can simply book online in advance or turn up and pay for a single session.
• Series of Courses and Workshops: These are structured series of classes where you book multiple classes at once in advance. They are good for beginners who want a consistent, progressive learning experience or for those who want to deep-dive into a specific technique like anatomy or portraiture.

Location and Accessibility

All our locations in London are charming and unique, offering quick and easy access to public transportation and convenient parking. We have creatives travelling from all parts of London to join. We also have a good mix of local creatives, London creatives, and even international tourists coming to get a taste of this vibrant community.

• Convenience: London is a large city, so consider the travel time and proximity to your home or work. A class that is easy to get to is one you’re more likely to attend regularly.
• Locality: Some creatives prefer a local club to get to know their neighbours; others prefer a mixed group, so newcomers don’t feel excluded.
• Venue: The space itself matters. Is it a well-lit, safe, comfortable space with good ventilation? Or is it a more informal setting like a pub backroom or a community hall? Check photos or descriptions online to get a feel for the environment.

Pose Durations

The structure of poses can vary greatly. Our sessions usually start with very short poses (30 seconds to 10 minutes) to warm up, followed by longer poses (20 minutes to an hour or more) so everyone has enough time to develop something in-depth to take home.

• Short Poses: Short poses typically range from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. They serve as a necessary physical and mental warm-up.
• Long Poses: Long poses typically range from 10 minutes to hours. If your goal is to create detailed, finished pieces, look for sessions that target long poses.

Atmosphere and Community

Creating a safe and non-judgemental space is the single most important criterion of a good atmosphere for us. The right atmosphere helps artists get into a state of “flow”. While art can be a solitary pursuit, community transforms a group of individuals drawing in the same room into a collective with a shared identity and purpose. While creatives may initially come to our life drawing club to improve their skills, you stay for the atmosphere that inspires and the community that makes you feel like you belong.

• Social and Relaxed: In a large city like London, finding your “tribe” can be difficult. A life drawing club is a natural hub for creative individuals. It provides a low-pressure social setting to build friendships and connections based on a shared interest, rather than just work or circumstance. For many, your weekly life drawing class is a vital social touchpoint, a place where you feel seen, accepted, and part of something. Many clubs have a strong community feel, play music, and encourage socialising during breaks and after classes. Be aware some of the art school clubs may feel less welcoming to hobbyists in search of a relaxing time.
• Quiet and Academic: These serious sessions are often those associated with art schools or ateliers and are more serious and studious. The atmosphere is silent and intensely focused, catering to artists who want a rigorous practice environment.
• Creative Networking: The life drawing community can also become a fertile ground for professional networking. An animator might meet a character designer, an illustrator might connect with a gallery owner, or artists might decide to collaborate on a project or exhibition. A trusted community naturally fosters these creative connections and informal opportunities.
• Alternative and Quirky: If you’re searching for a unique experience, London offers a huge range of alt fantasy-themed sessions. These can include sessions with specially costumed models, dancers or circus performers, and our popular events of life drawing with live music. These are great for pushing creative boundaries and meeting others interested in a specific niche.

Cost and Materials

We offer a concession fee of £5 with our partner Firepit Art Gallery and even free events with our other partner, such as The National Gallery, making us the most affordable life drawing club in London. Our full-price tickets for a two-hour session vary based on the venue and themes, ranging from £15 to £25, and include all art supplies and drinks.

• Price Range: A typical single drop-in life drawing session in London can cost anywhere from £10 to £35. Membership will have a higher upfront cost but is usually cheaper per session.
• Materials: Check whether basic materials like paper, charcoal, and drawing boards are included in the price. Many drop-in classes provide them, which is convenient for beginners and tourists. For other classes, you may need to bring all your supplies.

The Quality of the Model

We work only with friendly and professional models. We rotate among models of all ages, ethnicities, genders, backgrounds, body sizes/shapes/conditions and try to be as inclusive as possible. We especially like to work with models who are confident with their bodies, such as dancers, athletes, and different types of performers. To us the diversity of models is essential for the artistic integrity, educational value, and ethical foundation of any modern life drawing experience. It ensures artists are learning to see the world as it truly is—in all its varied and complex beauty.

• Professionalism: A good life drawing class uses professional models who are skilled at holding a variety of interesting and challenging poses for the required duration. Experienced models understand how to work with artists and contribute significantly to the quality of the session.
• The diversity of models: Models of different backgrounds enrich the practice on artistic, educational, and ethical levels. It transforms the session from a narrow, repetitive exercise into a dynamic and authentic exploration of humanity. A diversity of models—with different proportions, muscle structures, weight distributions, and posture styles—forces the artist to look closely and solve new visual problems in every session.

Life Drawing FAQs For Beginners

Why Life Drawing?

• Why Do People Go to Life Drawing?

Artists attend life drawing sessions for numerous reasons, chief among them being the development of fundamental observational and technical skills. Drawing from a live model trains the eye to see and interpret complex forms, proportions, and the effects of light in a way that working from photographs cannot replicate. Many also find the intense focus required during a session to be a meditative and relaxing experience, offering a mindful break from daily routines and a sense of community with fellow creatives.

• What Do You Learn in Life Drawing?

Life drawing is often called the “gym for artists” because it exercises every fundamental skill needed to create visual art. However, the lessons go far beyond just learning how to draw a realistic human body.

What you learn can be divided into technical artistic skills, cognitive/perceptual shifts (how you see and think), and personal growth. Life drawing doesn’t just teach you how to draw a person; it teaches you how to analyse the world with accuracy, depth, empathy and shifted perspectives.

• Can Life Drawing Reduce Stress?

Yes, engaging in drawing and other forms of art-making has been scientifically shown to significantly reduce stress. Studies have demonstrated that creating art can lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. For instance, a 2016 study published in the journal Art Therapy found that 75% of participants experienced a decrease in their cortisol levels after just 45 minutes of making art, regardless of their skill level. The act of drawing can induce a state of “flow”, a mentally pleasurable state of deep focus that helps distract from anxieties and promotes mindfulness.

• Is Life Drawing Good for ADHD?

There is no definitive answer to whether individuals with ADHD are inherently better at drawing or life drawing. However, some traits associated with ADHD, such as creativity and the ability to hyper-focus, can be beneficial for artistic pursuits. The intense focus can allow an artist to become deeply absorbed in their work, while creative thinking can lead to unique artistic expressions.

What is Life Drawing?

• What is Considered a Life Drawing?

A life drawing, also known as a figure drawing, is the artistic practice of sketching the human form from a live model. This art form can range from highly detailed, anatomically precise renderings to loose, expressive creative sketches. It is a cornerstone of traditional art education in the Western world, dating back to the Renaissance, and is considered a fundamental skill for artists.

• Is Life Drawing Fine Art?

Life drawing is considered a fundamental component of a fine art education. Historically, it was considered an essential practice for mastering the depiction of the human form, which was a central theme in Western art. Today, life drawings are not only valued as preparatory studies, but they are also recognised and exhibited as finished works of art in their own right.

• What is the Meaning of Life Drawing in Art?

In the world of art, life drawing is the practice of drawing the human form from direct observation of a live model. Its meaning and importance are multi-faceted; it serves as a foundational exercise for understanding the complexities of human anatomy, proportion, and form. Beyond technical skill-building, life drawing is a profound study of the human condition, challenging artists to capture not just the physical likeness of a person but also their gesture, energy, and essence.

• What is a Life Drawing Class?

A life drawing class is a structured session where artists draw the human figure from a live, often nude, model. These classes provide a unique opportunity to study human anatomy, form, and movement in person. Typically, a session is guided by an instructor and involves a series of poses of varying lengths, starting with very short gesture drawings and progressing to longer, more detailed studies.

• What is a Life Drawing Also Called?

A “life drawing” is most commonly also called a “figure drawing.” This term is used interchangeably to describe the artistic discipline of rendering the human body. In a more academic or traditional context, it might be referred to as “academic drawing,” highlighting its historical role as a cornerstone of formal arts education since the Renaissance.

Life Drawing Techniques

• How Do You Do Life Drawing?

Life drawing is the practice of drawing the human figure from a live model. A typical session begins with a series of short “gesture” poses, some lasting only a minute or two, to warm up and capture the essence of the model’s movement and energy. These are followed by longer poses, which can last from 20 minutes to several hours, allowing the artist to focus on details like anatomy, form, and the play of light and shadow. The fundamental process involves observing the model carefully and translating those three-dimensional observations onto a two-dimensional surface, starting with basic shapes and proportions before refining the details.

• How to Do Life Drawing for Beginners?

For those new to life drawing, it is recommended to start by focusing on the overall gesture and movement of the model rather than getting caught up in details. Using a grid system can help with achieving accurate proportions. Attending open studio sessions or structured classes can provide valuable guidance and the opportunity to learn from more experienced artists.

• Is Life Drawing Difficult?

Life drawing can be as challenging as you want it to be. It is widely considered a challenging discipline to master due to the complexity and subtlety of the human form. Accurately capturing the proportions, anatomy, and sense of weight and balance of a live person requires a high level of observational skill and practice. The human body is not a static object; even in a still pose, there is a sense of life and potential for movement that artists strive to convey, adding another layer of difficulty to the practice.

• What Are the Two Types of Life Drawing Techniques?

Life drawing techniques can be broadly categorized into two main approaches: formulaic and observational.

Formulaic techniques involve applying a pre-determined set of rules or shapes to construct the human figure, which can be useful for drawing from imagination and for quick sketches.

Observational techniques, on the other hand, are based on careful and direct observation of the model, which can range from free-flowing sketches to highly precise and measured drawings.

• What Are the Methods Used in Life Drawing?

Several methods are employed in life drawing to capture the human form effectively.

Gesture drawing involves quick, expressive lines to capture the model’s movement and energy, often in poses lasting only a few minutes.

Contour drawing focuses on the outlines and visible edges of the figure to define its shape.

Tonal drawing uses shading and value to create the illusion of three-dimensional form by depicting how light falls on the body.

Some life drawing sessions will also provide different prompts to you to

• What is the Loomis method?

The Loomis method is a highly regarded technique for drawing the human head, developed by American illustrator Andrew Loomis and detailed in his books from the 1940s. This systematic approach begins by drawing a sphere to represent the cranium, which is then divided between vertical and horizontal lines to establish the browline and centre of the face. From these initial guides, the artist can accurately place the facial features—hairline, nose, and chin—by dividing the face into thirds, ensuring proportional accuracy from any angle. Beginners particularly value this method as it provides a reliable structure for understanding the complexities of the head’s form before adding details.

• What Are the Principles of Life Drawing?

The primary characteristic of life drawing is that it is created by direct observation of a living human model. This practice is distinguished by its focus on capturing not just the physical likeness of the person, but also their gesture, energy, and form in three-dimensional space. Life drawings often exhibit a sense of immediacy and dynamism, reflecting the subtle shifts and vitality of the model, which is difficult to replicate in photographs or imagination.

• Is 14 Too Old to Start Drawing?

It is never too late to start learning to draw; the age of 14 is an excellent time to begin. The ability to draw is a skill that is developed through practice and dedication, not an innate talent one is born with. Many successful artists began their artistic journeys in their teenage years or even later in life, proving that passion and consistent effort are the most important factors for success.

The Life Model and Etiquette

• Is It Awkward?

It’s natural to feel a little nervous at first, but most people find that any initial awkwardness quickly disappears as they focus on the process of drawing. Life drawing classes are professional and respectful environments.

• What is the Etiquette Around the Model?

The model is a professional and should be treated with respect. It is important to maintain a professional and non-judgemental atmosphere. You should not take photos or videos of the model unless explicitly given permission. You should not touch the model or get too close. It’s also considered polite to be quiet and focused during the poses.

Logistics

• How Much Does a Life Drawing Class Cost in London?

The cost can vary significantly based on the location, duration, and whether materials are included. You can expect to pay anywhere from £10 to £35 for a drop-in session. Full courses will have a higher upfront cost.

• Do I Need to Book in Advance?

Many classes in London are drop-in, which means you can simply arrive and pay on the same day. However, since popular sessions can become crowded, it is often recommended to book in advance to ensure you secure a spot. Some studios may require pre-booking for all of their classes.

• What Kind of Atmosphere Can I Expect?

The atmosphere is generally relaxed, friendly, and supportive. Many classes play music during the sessions to help create a creative and focused environment. Some sessions even have a social element, with attendees grabbing a drink together afterward.

• Are There Different Types of Life Drawing Classes?

Yes, London offers a wide variety. You can find traditional untutored drop-in sessions, tutored courses, and more unique experiences like themed life drawing, classes with multiple models, or sessions that incorporate different lighting or props.

• What Actually Happens in a Life Drawing Class?

A typical class involves a live, unclothed model holding a series of poses. The session usually starts with quick warm-up poses lasting from 30 seconds to a few minutes. This is followed by longer poses, which can last from 20 minutes to an hour, allowing for more detailed drawings. There is usually a break in the middle of the session.

• Do I Need to Have Any Drawing Experience?

No, most life drawing workshops in London welcome people of all skill levels, including absolute beginners. Many sessions are untutored, creating a relaxed environment for everyone to learn at their pace. Some venues also offer specific courses for beginners that provide more guidance.

• What Materials Do I Need to Bring?

This can vary by class. Some studios provide all the necessary materials, which might be included in the ticket price. Others will expect you to bring your sketchbook and drawing tools. It’s always best to check with the specific class provider beforehand. For your first time, a simple sketchbook and some charcoal or pencils are usually sufficient.

• Will I Get Feedback on My Drawings?

In an untutored class, the focus is on personal practice, so you won’t typically receive formal feedback unless you ask a fellow artist. If you are looking for instruction, it is best to sign up for a tutored course where a teacher will offer guidance and critiques to help you improve.

• What Do You Need for Life Drawing?

To begin life drawing, you will need a few basic materials to capture the human form. Essential supplies include a drawing board to provide a stable surface, a variety of drawing papers, and a range of drawing tools like graphite pencils, charcoal (vine or compressed), and erasers. Many artists also use a portable easel to hold their drawing board at a comfortable angle, allowing them to easily view both their subject and their artwork.

• What Paper to Use for Life Drawing?

The choice of paper for life drawing often depends on the medium being used and the desired effect. For quick gesture drawings using charcoal or soft pastels, a medium-weight, medium-toothed paper like Canson Mi-Teintes is a popular choice, as it holds the pigment well. For longer studies using graphite or Conté crayons, a smoother, more durable paper such as high-quality drawing or sketching paper is often preferred to allow for more detailed work and erasing.

• What to Wear to Life Drawing?

When attending a life drawing class, it is best to wear comfortable and practical clothing that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, especially if you are working with messy materials like charcoal. Loose-fitting attire that allows for a full range of movement is ideal, as you may be shifting your position to get a better view of the model. Since studio environments can vary in temperature, dressing in layers is a practical approach.