Framestore, London, 12 November 2024

18 Nov 2024

Duo model bookings have become something of a scarcity. Esther and I had three in the two months immediately prior to the first UK COVID-19 lockdown. We’ve had just three in the four and a half years since.

To some extent this is for positive reasons. Life models had campaigned successfully for many London art groups to increase their hourly pay rate. Whilst this was overdue and very much needed, it means groups are less able to pay in full for two models.

Generally, Esther and I try to take a sensible pragmatic approach when agreeing duo fees, especially with groups that have given us lots of solo bookings. Not buy one get one free, nor undermining the market, but fair for all parties.

Esther has been modelling with Cosy Life Drawing London for many years, starting before they arrived at their current Framestore venue. For me, this would be a début appearance in any setting for the group.

Many artists here are animators and, as is often the case with animators, they favour lots of very short poses. We were impressed they did not compromise on the quicker pose times, even though their number of models had doubled.

Despite having so few opportunities for professional practice, when we got underway we found ourselves slipping effortlessly in and out of complimentary alignments. This was entirely unrehearsed, with no time for forethought, and with very little conferring.

Only once did I find myself in an uncomfortable position: a 10-minute kneeling ‘battle’ pose holding a stick while Esther brandished a sword. Esther’s moment of discomfort came when she curled up with her head resting in my lap, but legs not ideally placed.

Occasional misjudgements are inevitable with rapid repositioning, but overall it was a really good dynamic session for a well-organised, kind, considerate group of talented artists. Thoroughly enjoyable. And check out these artworks..!