The Bath House, Hackney Wick, 15 October 2024

18 Oct 2024

On Tuesday, The Bath House in Hackney Wick became the twelfth venue at which I have modelled for Adrian Dutton’s groups. And what a truly brilliant venue! Possibly my favourite since his glory days at Eastbourne House in Bethnal Green (2013-17).

The building still houses a working community sauna, but is so much more besides. Life drawing takes place in the main hall, which is huge and thus a challenge to keep heated, but one can overlook a few chills in exchange for the advantages.

Many positives are common to all Adrian’s groups by virtue of his gentle, unflustered warm-spirited manner of engaging with everyone present. Here, however, I was also feeling lots of warmth from the artists, both individually and as a community.

There was good number of people drawing; perhaps 28, give or take. I always say it doesn’t matter to me whether 1 or 100 artists are present as I’ll always give as much as I can. Nonetheless, after a run of posing for small gatherings I really needed this.

It’s a strange how much of a difference being in a positive environment can make. I’d arrived feeling physically out of sorts after the previous evening’s long pose, but right from the outset a subtle energy lifted me here. I was almost gliding into poses.

Another bonus was recognising friendly faces from other London groups. Many were artists who I know understand my style and respond superbly to the inspiration. They elevate me simply by being themselves and through their love of creativity.

Clearly I wasn’t the only one who enjoyed this evening. I was left flabbergasted when Adrian told me how much had been given in tips – a big thank-you for such kindness! Great session, great people, great artworks. It was a pleasure to participate.