Art modeling does not typically fall under the categories of the industry, but this is a form of modeling that may be of interest to those who are 18 and older looking to earn a great source of income. Art models have been used since the Renaissance and even before then. Today is no different. There is always a demand for art models.
The great thing about this type of modeling is that there are absolutely no requirements. You don’t have to be tall, thin, unique/odd looking, a certain weight, etc. Art schools take models old and young, skinny and large, tall and short. Many art models freelance while going to school or some even do it full-time.
The pay range is pretty good as well. A general range is anywhere between $15-25 an hour. Some prestigious, private art schools may pay models even as much as $40 an hour. Definitely not an amount to sniff at.
I’m sure you’re thinking, “Don’t art models get naked?” Well, the answer is yes and no. Just as with regular modeling, you will be allowed to choose what type of art modeling you want to do. You do not have to be a nude art model if that’s not your thing (although if you are totally cool about that type of thing, it will work in your favor since nude models are the most needed by art classes so that means big paychecks!).
You can do costume art modeling, where you can dress up as a clown, princess, witch, or other theatrical character. There is also fashion art modeling where you get to model the clothes created by students. Because fashion students are also required to master how the clothing drapes the human body, sometimes art models are required to be nude for this type of class but again that all depends on what kind of art modeling you state you are willing to do. There is also prop modeling (pretty self explanatory) and the opportunity to pose with another model where you play off of one another in your poses.
So how does one go about being an art model? It’s as easy as picking up the phone and calling your local art school and asking to speak with the Model Coordinator. Ask if they have a need for new art models. You’ll meet with the Model Coordinator, who will have you fill out a sheet with stats, contact info and what type of work you want to do. They may ask for a headshot for reference (does not need to be professional or “modelish”). Sometimes art teachers need a specific look, ethnicity, etc.
Once you are hired, you’ll start getting sent to the various classes and campuses (if there is more than one). You’ll be required to have each teacher you work for sign an invoice, which you then submit each week to the Model Coordinator. Turning in your invoices on time will guarantee you get paid so don’t fall behind in your paperwork.
Just as with fashion and commercial models, art models work as independent contractors, which means that the art school you work for is not your actual employer so they will not offer you benefits, health insurance, a 401(k) plan, etc. You’ll also be responsible for submitting the right tax forms each year, which the school will mail to you.
If you love art and have always wanted to be an artist’s muse/inspiration, then art modeling could be a great opportunity for you. Art modeling may not lead you to the runways in Milan or Paris but you could end up as a masterpiece in a museum or on someone’s wall. If that isn’t the ultimate compliment, I don’t know what is.
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