Life Modelling- an evaluation!

Dear followers!
The post below refers to the evaluation of my life modelling placement. Although first, I must state some points which might hinder/differ my evaluation somewhat.
My life modelling never initially started out as a placement, I was already a life model and decided to put it towards this assignment because it seems logical!
Even though I have typed up an evaluation, I will be continuing to life model, (for as long as possible I hope!).
But, from my tutors point of view, doing an evaluation on past placements will help to reflect on your progress, regardless of if you will continue or not.
So. . . below are my initial aims and objectives and whether they were met, and an in-depth evaluation below.

1. To gain confidence, both physically and mentally.

Looking back at this aim, I think I was a little naive to think this wouldn't be possible. Unless something terrible had happened while modelling, I would have thought it was without a doubt that you would gain confidence. This aim has definitely been met!

2. To gain contacts around the South West of other life modelling jobs.

This is an on-going task. There will always been a life-drawing class that needs a model. Because I have been telling many artist of the work I do, I now have many more contacts than I did 6 months going, and the list keeps growing!

3. To possibly gain a job where nude modelling is required.

Again, this aim was maybe being slightly naive. I am still in a degree and therefore cannot take on any large projects outside of Uni, regardless. Maybe this aim would be better suited at the end of my degree, when I concentrate on one thing only?

In depth Evaluation
For my festival evaluation, I had 5 key points to answer in order to cover the criteria set. I'm not going to type them out again (sorry!), so you will have to scroll down to find the questions!

In answer to point no.1:
My feelings from doing life modelling have been varied. For example, the first time I ever life modelled, that session was one of the most nerve-racking times in my life, and I don't know what lead me back to keep doing it. From then on, my feelings have been of almost normality. There are many people that do not understand why I do what I do, or how I can. I feel very proud to be able to do what I do.

In answer to point no.2:
There was only one instant to where the life modelling class varied. One morning two models turned up, myself and a lady from Plymouth (who had got her dates muddled up!) and we modelled together. I actually felt that it was a really beneficial session, and not just for the artist's. It's very rare when the artist can have the opportunity to paint/draw two models and many of them expressed their gratitude when both of us turned up. For myself as well, I had the chance to model with a complete stranger. It is one thing to take your clothes off in front of strangers, and then to do the same with another naked stranger by your side, I don't know many people who would happily do that!
I felt that having two models (by default) was certainly different, but this worked in the class.

In answer to point no.3:
Through blogging this placement, I have had more contacts because of this. Also, the feedback I have received through the blog or otherwise has all been very positive, which just confirms my thoughts that life modelling is not just seen as a performance, but also, it takes alot of courage to do it.

In answer to point no.4:
Through doing this placement, I am now more determined than ever to proceed in finding a company or otherwise that specialise in female nudity, whether this is in a dramatic sense or in an artistic sense. Nudity was by no means a thought a year ago when I started my degree, I wouldn't have even given it a second thought. But, as through doing this work, I feel I have found a 'niche' in the performance circle, and am keen to pursue this.

In answer to point no.5:
Because my course (I feel) is very academic, and based on performance on the stage, I have made plans in the second year that leans towards more of what I want to achieve personally because of the placements I have done. For example, for my Small Scale Touring assignment, I have chosen and proposed to do life modelling workshops, rather than doing something to do with drama, or dance, or music, because I feel I will benefit more from doing something I have realised I enjoy, rather than doing something just because it's on my course.

Keep smiling
Ruby Foxglove x x x