The term "life class" is commonly used in the art world to refer to a drawing or painting class where live models are used. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /laɪf klæs/. The first syllable, "life," is pronounced with the long "i" sound as in "I" and the second syllable, "class," is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "cat." Together, the two syllables create the word "life class," which is often used interchangeably with the term "Figure Drawing" in art curriculums.
Life class refers to a form of traditional art education that involves studying and drawing live human models. It is a term commonly used in the realm of fine arts and typically takes place in a controlled environment, such as an art school or studio. In a life class, artists, particularly aspiring painters and sculptors, observe and analyze the human form through careful observation, sketching, and finally rendering it on various surfaces.
The main objective of a life class is to develop the artist's understanding and proficiency in capturing anatomical proportions, composition, and the play of light and shadow on a three-dimensional subject. By working from live models, artists gain insight into the nuances and complexities of the human figure that cannot be fully captured through photographs or other media.
A life class often involves both short and long poses, allowing artists to practice gesture drawings as well as more detailed studies. The environment is usually conducive to focused concentration, with students arranged around the model in a semi-circle or circle. Instructors may provide guidance, critique, and demonstrations to aid students in their artistic growth.
The concept of life classes can be traced back to antiquity, as artists have long sought to study and depict the human form. Today, life classes continue to be an integral part of formal art education and provide a foundational experience for artists of various styles and disciplines.
The word "life class" has its roots in the 19th-century art world. It is derived from the French term "atelier de vie", which translates to "studio of life". The term was widely used in France during the academic training of artists, particularly in the study of the human figure. In these classes, students would observe and sketch live models, primarily focusing on anatomy and human proportions. Over time, the term "atelier de vie" was anglicized into "life class" and became commonly used in English-speaking countries to refer to similar art sessions.