London School of Visual Arts, London, 22 June 2026

I began the week with a first-time visit to London School of Visual Arts, down in the Crystal Palace area of south London, to sit for portrait artists. It was a 3-hour booking within which I sat for four 20-minute periods in the first half, with a short stretch-break following each. After a longer interval for refreshments, I sat for three more periods of 20 minutes (the last extended to 23 minutes) again punctuated by quick stretches.

Amongst the venues where I’ve posed, this is one of only a surprisingly small number to have a purpose-built pose space. It incorporates a raised platform against one wall with specialist lighting and room for an arc of easels that looked to be comfortable for our six artists but maybe could have accommodated a couple more at a push. On the platform itself I sat upon a throne-like chair, more like a lord than the lone employee.

A common occupational hazard for portrait models is the danger of nodding-off. I was in most peril of this happening during the second of our seven 20-minute periods, but thereafter remained fully alert. Overall this was a thoroughly enjoyable evening with a nice group of artists, who were as studious during their practice as they were relaxed and jovial during the breaks. And the artworks? Phenomenal.

Pose minutes, 6:30pm-9:30pm

Part 1 : 80.
— break —
Part 2 : 63 continuation.

Artworks

With apologies to artists I’m unable to credit.

Artwork by Riichard Gray.

Artwork by Nick Richards.

Artwork by Themistoklis Tefas.

Artwork by Charlie Pickard.