10 Places in L.A. to Draw Nude Models

Michael VanOverbeck

6. El Camino College
For about 10 years, Michael VanOverbeck has run his Life Painting and Life Drawing Marathons at El Camino College. Usually held on the last Sunday of the month, the events take over two studios -- one for quick poses, the other offering one all-day pose -- and are open to anyone 18 or over, regardless of skill level. Prices are $20 a session, plus a $5 material and classes start up again in 2013. 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance, www.eccomunityed.com.

Jennifer Fabos Patton

5. Gallery Girls
Jennifer Fabos Patton's figure model group is what you'd expect if Bettie Page stuck her finger in a light socket while perfecting those bangs. The models-for-hire have posed for some of the groups on this list, but they also partner with other spaces to hold their own events, such as their late-night drawing sessions the first Friday of the month at Gallery Godo and the third Thursday of the month at The Gnomon Workshop. Twice a year, they also host Turkish Delights, featuring three stages with models posing, a hookah lounge, photo booth, belly dancers and, of course, Turkish coffee. Fabos Patton's latest venture is Art Brunch, held the first Sunday of the month at the Kline Academy. Catering to painters and sculptures as well as sketchers, the event showcases nude models holding pose for four hours. Check GalleryGirls.org for more details about these and other events.

Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art

4. Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art
As the name suggests, the Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Art in Van Nuys is well-versed in the subject of drawing the human form. The course catalog covers everything from figure sketching to figure drawing and anatomy -- as well as even imaginative animal design and drawing -- with varying sessions and prices. To get a better idea of the offerings, there's the unlimited uninstructed workshop pass that covers six days and uninstructed workshops in figure and costumed drawing for $205. 16926 Saticoy Street, Van Nuys, (818) 708-9232, laafa.org.