Thriving as an Art Model in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex | Art Modeling Tips

The Growing DFW Art Model Scene

The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex has long been known as a hub for arts and culture in Texas. In recent years, DFW has seen its art model scene grow and thrive, providing opportunities for artists, photographers, and models alike.

What is an Art Model?

Art models are individuals who pose for visual artists as references for their artwork. This may include paintings, drawings, photography, and sculpture. Models provide inspiration for artists through their form, expression, and body language.

Some common types of art modeling include:

• Life modeling - Posing nude or clothed for figure drawing/painting classes
• Photographic modeling - Posing for photographers and illustrators
• 3D modeling - Providing reference for sculptors

In addition to their visual presence, art models must be able to hold static poses for an extended period. Patience and discipline are key skills for this type of modeling work.

Benefits of Working as an Art Model

There are many advantages to working as an art model in DFW:

• Flexibility - Models can often set their own schedule with artists and book as many or as few jobs as desired.
• Decent pay - Experienced models can earn $25-$100 per hour based on factors like pose duration and nudity.
• Artistic appreciation - Models get to see themselves through an artist's eyes and gain a new appreciation for their body.
• New skills - Posing teaches models body awareness, discipline, and how to exude confidence.
• Networking - Models collaborate with a variety of talented, creative people in the local art scene.

For those with the right temperament, art modeling can be a fulfilling and rewarding side job or career.

Where to Find Art Modeling Jobs in DFW

The DFW area offers plenty of options for breaking into art modeling:

• Colleges/universities - Many have life drawing classes open to the community needing models. Check with local art departments.
• Artist collectives - Groups like the Dallas Artists Network and Fort Worth Art Collective hold drawing sessions requiring models.
• Meetup groups - Sites like Meetup.com list regional groups focused on photography, life drawing, and figure painting that use models.
• Social media - Many DFW photographers and artists advertise modeling calls on Instagram and Facebook.
• Modeling websites - Online resources like ModelMayhem.com and OneModelPlace.com let you create a portfolio and connect with artists.

Word-of-mouth and networking at local art events are also great ways to discover opportunities. As the DFW art scene grows, more options emerge all the time.

Notable DFW Art Modeling Venues

Some major hubs for art modeling in DFW include:

• Dallas Museum of Art - Hosts sketching sessions with costumed and nude models in its studio space.
• Kimbell Art Museum (Fort Worth) - Offers a regular Drawing from the Model program led by professional models.
• Plano Fine Arts Center - Life drawing classes meet multiple times per week with nude models.
• UT Arlington - Several life art classes open to the public with models are offered year-round.
• Creative Arts Center (Dallas) - Has classes like Drop-In Drawing and Saturday Sculpture that use costumed or nude models.

Regional art schools, studios, and collectives may also hold open life drawing sessions with models several times a month.

Tips for Models New to DFW

Art models who are just starting out in DFW can set themselves up for success:

• Have professionally taken digitals photos ready for your portfolio and to share at casting calls.
• Be prepared to show a photo ID and possibly sign releases at modeling jobs.
• Have basic art modeling supplies like robes, slippers/flip-flops, and personal refreshments on hand.
• Learn to strike and hold a variety of challenging poses - YouTube tutorials can help.
• Be punctual, polite, and patient with artists - a good reputation will take you far.
• Consider taking an art modeling workshop to gain knowledge and experience.

The more practice a new model gets, the more skilled and comfortable they will become. Don't get discouraged at the start - perseverance pays off.

Connecting with the DFW Art Community

immersing yourself in the local art scene as a model has many advantages:

• Attending gallery openings and art events lets you meet and network with artists.
• Following DFW artists and photographers on social media raises your visibility.
• Volunteer modeling for student/amateur artists builds your skills and relationships.
• Hitting the pavement and leaving business cards at art supply stores, studios, and schools can get you hired.
• Promoting yourself thoughtfully on modeling sites and social media platforms draws opportunities.

The more you interact with and contribute to the DFW art community, the more it will embrace you and provide work in turn.

DFW Offers Endless Art Modeling Possibilities

For models interested in boosting their portfolios and working with talented artists, Dallas-Fort Worth offers an immense amount of potential. As the region continues to grow as a national arts hub, modeling opportunities will only expand in the coming years.

FAQs

What types of art modeling jobs are there?

Some common types of art modeling include life modeling, photographic modeling, and 3D modeling for sculptures and illustrations.

How much do art models get paid?

Pay rates vary, but experienced models can make $25-$100 per hour based on factors like the duration and difficulty of the poses and whether nudity is involved.

What skills make a good art model?

Key skills include physical stamina, discipline to hold poses, patience, and the confidence to pose nude if required. An expressive face and ability to take direction are also useful.

Where can I find art modeling jobs near me?

Check local colleges, museums, artist groups, meetups, social media platforms, and modeling websites. Attend art events to network in person and spread the word that you model.

How can new models prepare for this work?

New models should build a portfolio, prepare supplies, learn challenging poses through practice, complete any necessary releases, and focus on networking with artists in the local community.