The Sparrowhawk, London, 4 October 2018

Figuration life drawing events at The Sparrowhawk are held just once a month, so I considered it something of a rare treat to get this booking. I met Figuration co-founder, animator and artist, Leo Crane on the first floor preparing the room for a 7pm start. We chatted about the session and life in general until, at the appointed hour, he asked me to commence with five poses of 2-minutes and three poses of 5-minutes.

© Leo Crane, Figuration

© Leo Crane, Figuration

© Leo Crane, Figuration

When Leo’s Figuration co-founder partner and professional model, Roy Butler booked me for this evening he asked me what music I enjoy. Figuration playlists are designed with the model in mind! After some thought I replied: “For life drawing, I tend to favour mellow. Maybe think ‘Teardrop’ by Massive Attack, that kind of thing.” Teardrop duly opened a superb assemblage of tracks. Next up for me: 10 and 15-minute poses…

© Leo Crane, Figuration

© Leo Crane, Figuration

After a short break for refreshments we finished the session with poses of 15-minutes, 20-minutes and 18-minutes. Temperatures were falling but Roy’s playlist was warming up nicely: ‘Pure Morning‘ by Placebo was followed by a little Portishead, DJ Shadow and – such a treat – The Beta Band, ‘B + A‘. Well it was a treat for me anyway. Great intuition, Roy! For the full collection, check out Spotify: Drawing Steve.

© Leo Crane, Figuration

© Leo Crane, Figuration

I had expected to enjoy this session and wasn’t disappointed. Leo and Roy are two of the nicest guys anyone could meet; the artists here were very friendly and easy-going too. Attention to detail in the organisation, messaging, promotion and materials for the room was exemplary. These events come around only once each month so it could be years till I get another chance to model here, but I’m grateful to have had this one.