Praxis N16, London, 12 July 2026

I met Vika when I life modelled at Print Club London on 1 April this year. Vika asked whether I would be interested in sitting for one of the 3-hour Sunday portrait sessions she runs at Praxis N16 in Stoke Newington. For sure, I would!

Praxis N16 is an artist-led, not-for-profit charity organisation that provides “affordable and flexible workspace for local creatives”. Inside the converted Victorian warehouse there are individual studios, a kitchen, bathrooms, and a large workshop space.

Our portrait session was held in the large open space, made bright by warm summer sunshine, and kept tolerably cool by a rotating fan. I sat upon a chair with my back to the wall, a contrasting fabric taped behind me, and an arc of easels in front.

We started the afternoon’s single pose in durations of half an hour, with a short break after each. Following three of these we took a longer break with much friendly banter over a lavish buffet of snacks, generously provided by Vika in the kitchen.

When we resumed there was time for one more sitting of forty-five minutes, taking us to the end. Of course, the curse that falls on all portrait sitters is drowsiness. I find it’s always at its peak during the second half-hour, and so it proved again here.

I fought gamely against the fog; that grey tunnel into which consciousness and vision seek constant refuge. The artists reassured me I got through it without actually falling asleep, but their portraits captured me accurately with heavy eyelids.

Aside from the endurance factor – an unavoidable aspect of the job – this was a very nice session with nice people. Everyone was engaged, but each was happy pursuing their own practice in their own way, which is exactly how untutored art should be.

Pose minutes, 1pm-4pm

Part 1 : 90.
— break —
Part 2 : 45 continuation.

Artworks

With apologies to artists I’m unable to credit.

Artwork by Vika.

Artwork by Frank Gambino.

Artwork by Frank Gambino.

Artwork by Frank Gambino.

Artwork by kung chun chan.

Artwork by Melissa Hajj.