Univers d'Artistes

Living Sculptures

2012-01-18T14:19:00.021+01:00

My high school art teacher was a little eccentric, (which was a good thing and seems to be part of the job description for art teachers!) She helped students through personal projects that had nothing to do with the exam material, calmly reviewed proposals for twenty-foot high paintings, and was an expert at tackling students paralysed by artist’s block a week before the deadline.
One of my friends wasn’t happy with her work and on hearing her plea for inspiration, our teacher cried “but how can you be stuck- you’re a walking work of art!!!”
I could almost see the light bulb turning on in my friend’s head. Her subsequent self-portraits received an A.

Seeing the human body as a living sculpture isn’t exactly an original concept, or a difficult one for many photographers and models- the tricky part is often getting the viewer to see what you do.

For some people, the challenge is getting past the obvious:
“She’s naked.”
“That’s right- but look at the pose and the way her body is positioned. It is perfectly symmetrical- the light makes her curves even more pronounced…”
“But she’s naked!”
And on and on and on…

Making an impression on other artists is even more difficult as most have seen it all before at the very least. Many have tried it themselves. That’s where the lighting, positioning and imagination come in- especially inside a white box with- if the team is lucky- a cube or step for the model to pose on.
Not that shooting outdoor nudes is easy- it isn’t- but a lot of decisions are already made. On location there are infinite focal points, a change of scenery usually within a minute’s walk, a variety of things for the model to pose with, in, on or under- and there’s a nice round sun to help with the lighting decisions (or hinder them until five ‘o’ clock precisely when the light suddenly becomes perfect)!
A studio is literally a ‘blank canvas’. There are so many ways to treat the curves, angles, ripples, joints and plains that make up a human body, that such a project could last a lifetime- and that’s without factoring in models of different genders, colours and shapes!

It is while browsing studio nudes that I find I can identify the best of the art models- bizarrely, this is because shooting abstract or sculptural nudes often involves doing the opposite of what modelling usually entails! As a model, scrunching yourself into a ball may not feel like the most attractive position, but when photographed from the right angle the creases and awkwardness of the pose are hidden and instead, you resemble a smooth living stone.
Close-ups are often joked about- it is a daunting thing to see your elbow in all it’s wrinkly glory… but if the viewer sees amazing texture captured in an abstract shot, then you have earned your meals that day!
While it is lovely to be recognised in photos (“another wonderful shot posed by _______” is always nice to hear), hiding models’ heads instantly makes the photograph about the form, rather than the identity of the person posing and so sometimes it is better to shut egos away, keep our heads down, and hope to be recognised for our incredible knees!

There are only so many ways the human body can be arranged and so accidentally copying someone else’s pose is a nightmare of many models. (Trying to avoid this with experimental posing often results in some hilarious outtakes!) However, trying to invent a new pose- whether it can be done or not- and, in the case of abstract nudes, banishing your inner model (along with the ego) is what, in my opinion can make a great pose.

And when the aforementioned great pose is captured by an equally-great photographer? That’s when the magic happens…

ROSWELL

First image: "Underlap", by Matthew Scherfenberg. I love the marble-like appearance of the model's legs. (And could see this on a pedestal in a gallery!)

Second image: by Lightphile Studios. This is the definition of a "living stone". Beautiful pose.

Some more beautiful pictures:

3) by Keital.

This image reminds me of the yin/yang symbol in the way that the model (Anita de Bauch)'s face is shown in one reflection but not the other. If you look without trying to separate the reflection from the real image, the different curves and lines take on an abstract quality.

4) by Jose Manuel de Caso

I see so many photographs of swans taking this pose, but it didn't occur to me that models could! I really like the sensuality- even eroticism- of this image, without it being explicit.

5) by B L Photography

It is always fascinating to see the work of art-nude models when they are behind the camera! This photo is a self-portrait by nude model Brooke Lynne- and a great example of an unusual pose that works to great effect.

6) by Jose Manuel de Caso

I love the pose and the contrast of the model's body with the dark background. Proof that the model does not have to be contorted to produce a wonderful image!

7) by R Davidson

I did not know the human body could make a heart shape in so many ways! If you focus on the model's outline, you can almost see another heart shape!

8) by Franklin Photographs

I love the way the lighting emphasizes the muscles and shadows on the model's body- and the tension in her fingers and toes.
Comparing this picture to the one above, it's a good example of how a small change in pose can change an image entirely.

9) "Ear", by Matthew Scherfenberg.

This image seems simple at first glance but the longer I look, the more details I see- especially the changes in tone around the jawline and hair. Beautiful piece of art.

Venus is a real woman: the photography of Grace Vane Percy

2012-01-06T07:38:00.001+01:00

Happy New Year everyone!

This is our first feature for 2012 and we are starting off our new series with Grace Vane Percy, an internationally recognised London based art photographer who specialises in nude female portraiture.

Clients come to her from France, Italy,Sweden, Holland and Monte Carlo and she also travels to New York to photographwomen. Grace’s clients are professional and independently successful women, herwork is a celebration of their natural femininity and unique beauty.
In other words, Grace does not work with "professional" models. It is an interesting choice, one that certainly challenges preconceived notions of beauty. Her work celebrates beauty and the female form and is about empowering women to think differently about their bodies.

Trained as visual artist at Central Saint Martin’s, Grace went on to studyfine art and the techniques of the Old Masters in Florence. Grace sees her workas directly influenced by classical art as well as the work of mid/late 19thcentury English and early 20th Century European (especially Czech and German)photographers.

In 2004 Grace wasinvited to join the ‘Women In Photography’ Archive at Yale. She has had many solo exhibitions around the world and is currently being exhibited at ArtPalm Beach, represented by Christopher Walker Art. Learn more about her by perusing her website.

I came across Grace's work in 2009 and we were briefly in touch. Last month the Evening Standard magazine carried a feature about her and this prompted me to reconnect. She graciously agreed (no pun intended) to contribute to UdA which she found very much to her taste.

I asked her two questions "Why real women rather than models?" and "Why film?" (Grace does not work with digital for her personal projects).

Let's hear it from her.

Why real women?

It just so happens that I am currently producing a body of work based on Venus, which ties in nicely with your question “Why real women?”

Nude female portraiture, that is to say the artistic depiction of the nude female form in art, harks back to the very origins of art itself. From the moment that man could conceive of art he has depicted the human form. But the creation of the nude as an art form in its own right and not just the subject, comes to us directly from the Ancient Greeks in the 5th century BC. The worship of Aphrodite or Venus and her celebration as the goddess of love, beauty and fertility was unquestioning of the fact she was a woman and the embodiment of physical desire. In fact this mysterious and compulsive force was embraced as an element of her sanctity. The concept of Venus has always unapologetically celebrated and glorified the female form.

The reality of any nude in art of course, is that its inspiration comes from an actual human body. Venus’s root is a woman’s body, a real woman’s body. In her many depictions art and art history are full of endless differing nude female forms, inspired by and indeed copied from life, from real women.

Simply put Venus is the worship of the triumph of the female form and the cult of its beauty. “Art”, says Aristotle, “completes what nature cannot bring to a finish. The artist gives us knowledge of nature's unrealised ends”. And so we see that the existence of ideal beauty is a creation from art. Praxiteles (of the late 4th) the first sculptor to be credited with sculpting a life sized female nude was as famous as his muse Phryne and together they are credited with the creation of some of the most beautiful works of art to enrich the classical world. Sadly only replicas now remain, but their collaboration is well documented and certainly one of the earliest examples of countless such artist/’model’ associations. This particular ‘model’ being any woman inspiring to the artist who was prepared to pose nude.

My current Venus project is conceptually loosely linked with Pygmalion. The idea is tophotograph women referencing the Goddess Venus (mother of all female nudity inart), posed within neoclassical architectural surroundings. The locations willinclude some of the UK’s most celebrated and renowned stately homes. The halls,sculpture galleries, temples, ruins, alcoves and fountains, will provide anapposite setting. The project is aimed at highlighting the natural, sculpturalform of the body.

Why film?

Not only am I totally in love with the romance of film – the idea that when you’re looking at a negative it is a precise split second of history captured – like a miniature time capsule of the exact moment when the light and chemicals combined. It’s like an imprint of the light we reflect constantly, and our eye sees constantly, that has been caught, suspended and preserved – what could be more magical?!

But also I find it gives this wonderfully rich tonal depth, which is especially valuable when the camera is describing skin. There are two films I shoot with pretty much exclusively – Ilford FP4 (120 roll film) and Ilford Delta 3200 (120 roll film), I use one for flash and one for daylight, they both give different qualities.

When I’m looking at a subject I want to capture that pearl like richness the skin holds and the luminous tones as the surface moves from light the shadow. I think no digital print can rival the depth and beauty of a high quality tradition hand print. My printer is a master at what she does, she has nearly 25years experience and a great understanding of the subtlety that is involved in good printing.

Thank you, Grace. Your work is thought provoking and inspiring. We hope to see more of it and good luck with all your projects!

model transformation

2011-12-21T21:25:00.000+01:00

another video I like to share:
I have to admit I too occasionally manipulate my images, tuck a bit here and nip a bit there, just to get a more desired look and shape ...

happy winter solstice to you all

Never understood women but always loved them

2011-12-11T00:58:00.001+01:00

Andrew Keiser can be found on deviantArt. He also has a website and writes his own blog. And he is not new to UdA, he has been featured before!

Here is Andrew in his own words:

"I’ve never understood women, and yet I’ve always loved them. With every picture I take it seems that fascination grows deeper and deeper and enlightenment all the more elusive. But still, I firmly believe if you strip away all that is unnecessary, all that women normally hide behind and use to define themselves, you will eventually see a small sliver of light to the soul with the click of a shutter.

My work covers a variety of mediums and methods including traditional film, Polaroid, and Pinhole photography. In the end, it is not about capturing beauty or fantasy, but instead about creating what is human in all of us."

And this is a selection made by Andrew of his own favourite shots

I like when an image expresses joy. I think far too often people treat artistic nudes as if they have to be some serious thing when that isn't necessarily true.

Sunshine will last

I am a complete sucker for a model staring right into the camera with confidence and strength. I think this image captures that very well.

Tomorrow is sunday

A cold gaze

Sometimes an image can be both cold and warm at the same time. This is one of those occasions.

I often have a hard time what is more important; the subject or the environment that surrounds her. It's a really rare thing when I can give them both equal weight.

Walking the line

Before it was summer

Basic shapes can often make great images. Some women have those shapes in abundance and it never hurts to capitalize on that.

I could really make something up here about the subject becoming the photographer and what it means as an image maker to have the tables turned on him. But in reality I'm a nerd and I like old cameras. As such it often becomes a theme in what I do that I tell my subjects to just hold something pretty like a Rollei.

Point and shoot

My lovely shapes

When I took this image I was thinking about geometric shapes and I told the model to mimic a triangle. This is how she enacted that request.

Brooke Falls

Again, right into the camera. No apologies, no forgiveness. Just being who you are is a really wonderful thing.

Curve and Tone

A lot of times people think all I do is photograph super skinny women. Believe it or not but I like curves. In fact I like them a lot!

Out of time

This is a rare indoor image that I am quite fond of. The model's body language is very subtle but at the same time very telling. There is an energy about it I've never been quite sure about which just draws me into it more!

Thank you Andrew! We wish you all the best for the future.

An announcement for all art nude lovers:
Mark Varley has just published a book "Derelict Nudes" a collection of photography featuring Nudes in Derelict locations, featuring the work of several photographers and models
For your copy of the book please visit here. More about the artists here

Erik's moment

2011-11-05T12:46:00.000+01:00

I have known Erik Flak (Phydeau on deviantArt) since I joined dA in June 2008 and we have become online friends and collaborators - we are both involved with the dA group Fine Art-Photography and the one I recently founded with Iris Dassault, Models-Photographers.
Erik has been taking photographs for some years and I have particularly admired his underwater nudes, one of which was recently awarded a Daily Deviation (a DD as it is known) on dA.

Abandon

I have asked Erik to tell us a little about himself and his work.

"My name is Eric Flak, and I'm currently located in North Carolina. I've been doing photography since I was 11 after winning a cheap toy camera in a contest. There really wasn't much I could do with that camera, so my parents got me an SLR and a tripod that Christmas, along with some books on photography. I took pictures until I went to college, at which point I was required to pay for my own film and developing. I slowed down a lot after that. Later, point-and shoot digital cameras came along, and I gave up on the SLR all together. Point-and-shoot cameras aren't bad - I managed to get the occasional good shot - but they really just don't have the control of an SLR.

Lush love

During those years, my main artistic outlet was through drawing. I liked to draw people, and in particular nudes. A friend introduced me to deviantART in 2006 so I could show off my drawings. I quickly became addicted to the site. I had no idea there were that many talented artists in the world. dA changed my view toward photographic artistic nudes. I didn't know there were that many people doing that, either. It was the first time I got involved in a discussion of art vs. pornography. Until then, I had made the assumption that with very rare exceptions most photographic nudes were of the prurient variety. I changed that way of thinking quickly. The artistic nude gallery is probably the reason my interest in photography was renewed.

My most popular deviation at the time was actually not a drawing, but a composite image I made by morphing 32 faces together. I did 3 of those, using the same celebrities at 3 different angles. I decided that I wanted to do the project again, only with more control of the variables as opposed to the random weirdness I got from internet searches. While I was at it, I thought it might be a good idea to do it full-torso. I asked for volunteers, and the only responses I got were all along the lines of, "Eh, seems like you just want girls to send you naked pictures." There's a dozen reasons why that was ridiculous, but I didn't argue with them. I just said to myself, "Well. I guess I'm going to have to do it myself. And that's when it hit me like a ton of bricks: "Why the hell am I NOT a nude photographer?" I decided that moment to finally break down and buy a DSLR.

Home

I didn't just jump into it, though. I spent almost 2 years learning to use the camera well, and practicing hard. Sometimes I used myself as a model.
My biggest challenge is money. I can't afford to hire models, and the bible belt isn't exactly crawling with models willing to work for trade. Thankfully, my main model, Cassandra, has been kind to me a few times. What they say is true. The more times you work with a model the easier it gets. We're more like friends than just photographer and model, now.

Lush

I'd like to eventually broaden the types of models I work with. Different ages, weights, ethnicities, and not just women.

My favorite photograph is one of the first I ever took of a model. I knew I wanted a specific look, but I wasn't able to articulate what exactly that was. I had her positioned on the edge of the bathtub for over ten minutes trying to get it. Finally, there was this moment. I suspect she was running out of ideas of how to pose in such a confined way, and for a second she stopped posing. That brief moment when she was in her own head was what I wanted.

The Moment

I titled the piece "The moment" not just for that reason, but because it was the turning point for me. Until then, I thought I wasn't going to hack it as a photographer. I was worried that I was wasting her time, and that I'd be percieved as the "GWC". After that shot, I felt unstoppable, and the rest of the shoot went beautifully. It was my moment, too"

Thank you Erik, for sharing that moment with us.

WAYS OF SEEING (female nude)

2011-11-04T19:39:00.000+01:00

this is part 1 of 4 from a a video, I highly recommend watching

Nude in Art

2011-10-30T20:15:00.000+01:00

a while ago a young model from Spain sent me a link to this video, (an image her was included in this)
they are a set and much fun to watch

the place of the art nude in public venues

2011-10-19T01:50:00.001+02:00

congratulations to contributing artist David Winge
his work is a part of exhibition inspired by the Spirit & Place theme ‘The Body’

"The Calling"
Art Model: Conundra

INDIANAPOLIS (Oct. 13, 2011) – The nude human figure in fine art has been both celebrated and censored, with its creation and display being influenced by academia and religion and its virtue debated by everyone.

As part of the 2011 Spirit & Place Festival – which carries the theme “The Body” – a group show at Stutz Art Space will explore the question of the art nude’s place in public venues.

WHERE: Stutz Art Space, 212 W. 10th St. (Please enter from 10th street via Bearcat Alley)
COST: Free
INFO: www.stutzartists.com or (317) 503-6420

Nudes of 'ordinary' women

2011-10-08T14:52:00.001+02:00

This is a topic dear to my heart and about which I wrote in my personal blog. Following that post I contacted Jane Lancashire, after seeing her website. Jane is a photographer who specialises in doing nudes of women who do not model, either professionally or semi-professionally, and who want such images for themselves, just to feel good about themselves.
The results are stunning as you can see from the photographs.

Says Jane:
"It is such rewarding work, celebrating the natural, feminine curves and reminding women how beautiful they are. The creative journeys I share with clients make this a particularly enjoyable type of photography.

Clients will find that even if they have some reservations about removing their clothes, this passes almost immediately and almost everyone has commented on how liberating the experience is."

The testimonials on her website, from women who have experienced being photographed nude, often for the very first time, are proof that what she does is amazing, in terms of helping women to feel beautiful and confident.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Therefore it is perfectly possible to obtain high quality images when photographing women who may not be conventionally beautiful, but as people they are interesting and have a beauty which the camera may (or may not) capture, depending on who is taking the photograph. Jane knows how to make a woman unleash the inner goddess which is in all of us.

When I see Jane's images I feel that the only difference between me as a model and any of her clients is simply that I am more used to being photographed and feel very confident in front of the camera, regardless of who is holding it. It took a while to gain that confidence but I have it now and it will never go away. This is what allows me to be a model. There are times when some (male) photographers, usually middle aged, try to shutter that confidence by claiming that "the best models are girls under eighteen". I look at them with pity, as what they are saying is but a projection of their desires. I am a photographer myself and I know that the camera is but an extension of my eyes. It sees what I see and my images embody my own prejudices. I believe women are beautiful, simply by being themselves, and it's wonderful to see someone like Jane putting this philosophy into practice.

I can't help quoting here what one of the women photographed by Jane says:

"Thank you Jane for reminding us of who we are, who we can be and giving the choice of who we wish to be"

Thank you Jane for doing what you do!

Alex

More about Jane at The Real Does Not Efface Itself

(The women you see in these photos wish to remain anonymous, therefore they are not named)

diversity in nude art photography 2

2011-09-29T02:44:00.000+02:00

Dirty Laundry
Photographer: Click Hamilton
Art Model: Mika Meiri

Erotic Dream #3
Photographer: jeffrey fletcher

Gum Bichromate
Photographer: Steve Wilkinson Maxximages
art model: GingerMuse

Photographer: Michael Floyd
Art Model: Lilith Marie

Old Wicker
Photographer: ChaiseRichard Tallent
Art Model: Vivien Day

Jingletown
Photographer: PJ Reptilehouse
Art Model: Kari Marie

Madrid Rising
Photographer: Matt Haber
Art Model: Madrid

editor's note:
hello
here is the second edition of my selections in celebrating diversity in fine art nude photography (the first one is here).

if you like to contact me please do so through my own personal blog or directly by email:
web[at]onepixart.com

if you are submitting to be featured here please make sure the title of your note is: “UdA editorial” and include a list of URls to where I may find your works.

with love and respect
.mosa

From India with love...

2011-09-23T02:09:00.000+02:00

Ashok Viswanathan is from Mumbai, India. There are very, very few photographers in India who shoot nudes. I have interviewed Ashok for UdA

How and when did your passion forphotography begin ?

I started young when in school and inthe early 70’s… My first camera was a Zeiss Ikon super Ikonta IV which is a 120roll film camera taking 12 square images per roll. This was given to me by myuncle who no longer used it. Back then it was a fairly advanced camera with ameter and if I remember right a Tessar f 3.5 lens fixed to bellows. I loved it.

I soon moved to a Minolta SRT 101 witha normal lens and started exploring 35mm mainly b/w. Medium format and largeformat was the accepted standard back then. About the same time I teamed upwith a friend who was also passionate about photography to set up a wetdarkroom to develop and make our own prints.
It wasn’t long before I kept seeing theNikon F and Nikkormat advertisements in photography magazines and saved up justenough to get my hands on a Nikkormat FTn with a 50mm f1.4 lens. Since then Ihave been committed to Nikon and currently use a Nikon D100 with a 14mm, 80-200f2.8 nikon zoom and a 24-85 f 2.8 nikon lens. This gives me all the focallengths I need and covers the vast majority of my needs. I have not felt theneed to get additional lenses. Mytripod is a Manfrotto which is somewhat heavy with a pan and tilt head.

Do you make anything else aside from nudes ?

Aside from nudes I shoot portraits,landscapes. seascapes, and travel images. India is colourful. There are so manyfestivals, places and people.. it’s a big country. My favourite part of Indiais Rajasthan for the festivals, the desert and the colour as also Kerala forthe canals and greenery. There is so much of India I have yet to see.

Film or digital ? Maybe both ?

I think digital is wonderful. Theinitial investment is high for someone who does not have an income fromphotography but the convenience and ability to instantly view your images is abig plus. It’s a great learning tool as you can correct your mistakes while youstill have the chance. Digital today is better than film. The quality, colorand saturation is better than film and the modern sensors have the ability toalmost see in the dark. A 6 MP camera is the minimum one needs to produce highquality work that can be printed to reasonably large sizes such as 20x30 inches.I no longer shoot film. Processingfacilities are limited and costs increasing.

Every photographer has his signature, his personal touch (and yours is veryclear) that makes all the difference. I know how difficultit is to do so, but how would you describe your photographic style ?

I am not sure that I have one specificstyle. My work has been restricted by the environment as I explained separatelyhere. Hence my style if you can call it that, is images with light and shadowthat show the lines and shapes. They tend to be low key. I like converting myimages to black & white to get a range of tones. It makes the image moreeffective. I like simple straightforward images against a plain background so you can focus your attention on themain subject.
More recently I have tried modifyingimages by merging several images as well as using textures and blending modes.Patterns are also interesting especially on a nude against a dark background. You got to try differentcombinations to create something new.

You wrote to me "The conditions here are different and art nude is still anew field being explored by photographers". From my trips to India I remember that the celebration of sensuality is part of Indian culture. For example one sees sensual images on the walls of some temples...

India is a country with a long historygoing back well over a 1000 years. Yetwe remain largely a conservative society. Most photographers I have met have not shot nudes either becausethey don’t know what its all about or more likely because they are unable to find anyone tomodel. Even artists find it very difficult to find a model. A select few havebeen successful in this area. There is a very fine line dividing art and pornography.
The Kamasutra was written in India. Thetemples of Khajurahao built in 950 -1050 AD with their erotic carvings aretoday a UNESCO heritage sight. It's in the mind and how you perceive suchcarvings and photographs.

Inwhat themes do you find inspiration ?

As far as themes go I enjoy shootingnudes. Also travel.

What locations do you prefer to use? You seem to have a largepreference for the studio

My main location so far for shootingnudes has been indoors. Many reasons for this. I live in Mumbai (earlier knownas Bombay) in India and it’s a very crowded city with a population of over 20million. There are very few places within reasonable driving distance where onecan get privacy to do a nude photo shoot. I would love to try nudes or lingerieshoots on a beach or the nude in the landscape. Landscapes and seascapes are amongmy favourite images and combining that with nudes would be very interesting.Maybe later this year or the next I may attend a workshop abroad to shoot suchimages.
My images look like studio shots butinfact they are mostly shot in available light. Only very few images here are studioshot in the sense that lights/strobe were used. When I bought an apartment many years ago, oneof the first things I noticed wasthe window light. The apartment is high up on the top floor and theneighbouring building is painted white which reflects the beautifull light fromthe sky into my living room. I can control the extent of the light by movingthe sliding windows to the left or right. I also have a small window on the other side and in theevening the setting sun comes through the little window to create lovely sidelight or back light on the model. All this together makes the impression theimage is studio lit.
I have very limited experience instudio lighting and would like to learn more. This needs practice and I plan touse the photography club studio for this. It takes a lot of practice as well astrial and error.

Tell us about your art models

My models are not pro models ie they donot model for a fee. After a lot of searching and persuasion I have been privilegedto have friends who have an interest in art and appreciate some of my work,wether nudes, landscapes orportraits and agree to model. Indian women are conservative and modeling is an option only a few pursue . Fine art nude is little understood and fewer models practice in this part of theworld. There are no web sites where one can approach a model. Its all by word ofmouth. Most models do not want their images published as they want to remainanonymous.
I am not looking for any specific bodytype or age and can work with all shapes be it slim or heavier built. As myinterest is more in shapes and curves, light and shadow I am not restricted tousing a slim body type only.

There is a freshness and innocenceabout using amateur models. I don’t direct them too much but work with somebasic poses, ideas and let it flow from there. I also start by shooting themdressed and slowly get down to topless images with their thong or knickersstill on. There is no pressure to start by shooting nudes. The first sessions usually are stiff andawkward but as they get comfortable I start getting better images. Needless tosay there is a high rejection ratio as we work towards that special moment wheneverything comes together.. I have also found that with more than one sessionthe model begins to understand what you are looking for. From time to time Ilet the model see the RAW captures on the camera display. It motivates them andthey can also see how they look. Often they come with ideas and props that become successful images.

Another difficult question : what is your own favourite photograph ?

Indeed a difficult question but beforeI answer that let me start by saying that my favourite lighting is window lightand a fill with a reflector. This produces lovely images especially in black& white. It's difficult to pick one particular favourite as there are many Ilike.

What do you consider your greatest photographic accomplishment to this point,and what is your biggest aspiration ?

I am completely self thought. I read alot and internet is great source of articles and information on photography. Iwould like to do a book on nudeswith an Indian theme. I don’t know if this will happen but I hope so.

Have you some challenges (publications, exhibitions) you're dreaming aboutin a near future ?

I have had some work published beforein magazines but those have been articles and images on Indian culture, traveletc. In the early years of my photography I participated in many national andinternational exhibitions with some awards and publications in catalogues etc..this was in the pre digital era. I had to discontinue this due to rising costs.
At this time I am discussing a one manshow of my work in Bangkok, mainly Indian portraits, travel, landscapes andseascapes. I am hopefull this willmaterialize.
This is the very first interview on aglobal web site specializing in art nudes and it’s a great honour to have mywork selected to be viewed by a wider audience. There are many photographers onthis web site whose work I greatly admire.

What is your best way to promote your work ?

I am not sure if in India galleriesare ready for a one man show ofnudes. Its perhaps too early for that. But attitudes are changing with exposureto global trends. I would like to participate in group shows overseas. BothAmerica and Europe have opportunities for such exhibitions where establishedartists come forward to exhibit. Specialist art nude magazines could be anotheroption as well.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to work in your genre, in yourcountry ?

Its taken me a very long time to findwomen who are willing to model. Its not easy. So patience is the very firstrequirement. Like they say…. The first time is always difficult. Once you havesome work to show, people understand what you do and what sort of images youshoot. Recommendation helps greatly. I think Indian women are lovely and thebeautifull eyes, dark hair and skin tones make wonderfull subjects. You justgot to find them !!
Most important is to ensure that youare discreet and that the pictures do not end up in the wrong places.

Is there a question nobody has ever asked you and you would like to answer ?

I have been keenly watching the digital technology develop. The newmedium format digital is slowly becoming more affordable and I may consider toadd a 645 digital camera and a couple of lenses to my kit. I quite like thePentax 645 AFD. Its still not available in India. A kit like that is a bigdecision.

Any message you’d like to leave for our readers ?

I am always looking for models and if any readers aretravelling to this part of the world then I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you Ashok. We wish you all the very best in your pursuit of art

Nude modelling: A Woman's World?

2011-09-07T23:46:00.011+02:00

I can name around thirty talented and respected nude models. When I look at a casting I’m not suitable for, I can usually recommend someone who would be. These people are different sizes, with a varied spectrum of hair colours and styles, and range from Amazonian to pixielike. But they all lack one thing- a Y chromosome.

It isn’t that photography featuring the male nude doesn’t exist, for it does; but where are the subjects of these pictures and why aren’t they internationally renowned for their work? Why don’t we know who they are?

One reason is that for many of them, nudes are a “once in while” thing and they mostly focus on other work as there is such a low demand for nudity (certainly this is true of the male models I spoke to on networking sites). Others are fitness professionals or dancers modelling in between rehearsals- which appears to explain the lack of diversity among men in nude photographs. While skin colour differs, the men often have similar physiques and photos tend to be dynamic action shots with a focus on musculature.

Even while searching for photos to illustrate this piece, I found many nude men(!) but comparatively few good images of them; and of those, the only body type depicted was athletic. Several photographers even state in their profiles that they don’t photograph men. Ever.
And to be fair to them, I have seen my fair share of shocking “art nudes”- mostly the ubiquitous ‘grabbing crotch’ shot, and for the daring, the ‘close up penis-through-pants’ shot. With so little imagination and variety in photographs of this type, it is not surprising that the demand for prints and coffee-table books featuring the male nude is much smaller compared to ones with female nudes.

Some believe that female curves lend themselves to art better than male bodies. Some feel that male genitals must be covered or concealed in order for the image to be artistic, as opposed to pornographic. Not long ago, a man with photographs of nude men in his house would be assumed gay and judged unfavourably based on this. The prejudice is lessening, but the assumption is not gone entirely.

These are just some of many possible reasons why ‘top nude model’ lists never include men, but I can’t help but think that they would be discarded immediately if a model with talent, unique looks and ambition enough to make his name known emerged.

Are you out there?

ROSWELL

Images:
1) Photographer: Ekaterina Zakharova
2) Photographer: Gregory Prescott Model: Branden Mitch
3) Photographer: Ekaterina Zakharova

diversity in nude art photography

2011-09-05T20:43:00.000+02:00

I’m not looking at you

Matt Blum

Art Model: Brooke Lynne

Dance To The Blues

David Winge
Art Model: Nevaehlleh

White Body Paint

Scott Nichol (Silvery Stars)
Art Model: Katlyn Lacoste

Jonathan Kane

Art Model: Chloe

Clay Lipsky
Art Model: Nettie r Harris

Xaina for Black, White, and Red project

Mark Bigelow

Art Model: Xaina

"when all the ordinary sinners take flight
no one will ever see your wings…"
Vernon Trent
Art Model: Candice Nirvana

Tito Trelles MADE IN NY

Art Model: Luzia

...and deliverance

OnePixArt

Art Model: Cwen

* * * * * editor's note:
in the past few years there has been a drastic boost to the diversity of fine art photography and specifically, figurative nude art photography.
Contributing to this phenomenon are:
~ the availability of new digital cameras and digital editing technologies.
~ The new web based "social networks" specific to this industry have also made it very easy for models and artists to find each other,
~ and in addition the collective exhibit websites/galleries like DeviantArt, Tumblr and many more have made this art easily accessible to public

Here I have selected a very small, yet accomplished collection of work from these exhibits.
I am also hoping to celebrate this diversity on a regular basis in the future.
please feel free to leave you comment below.

as well if you like to contact me personally, please send a note to:
web[at]OnePixArt[dot]com

A Zen Eye Photography: Eric McCollum

2011-08-29T18:00:00.000+02:00

Introducing Eric McCollum from Washington DC - this is his first feature here at UdA.

by Alex

Eric in his own words:

I am a photographer based in the greater Washington, DC area in the United States. I began taking photographs as a child and studied photography briefly in college in the ‘70s but left it behind as other pursuits took my attention. During that time, however, I had the amazing experience of taking a course in the History of Photography from Beaumont Newhall, then teaching at the University of New Mexico. It was a wonderful chance to touch the very roots of American photography. About 7 years ago, I came back to the camera as I was searching for a creative outlet. I specifically decided to concentrate on the nude figure . . . there is the mystery of the nude, the performance of the shoot, and the wonderful intersection of light and skin. I like to think my images have to do both with form and intimacy. I collaborate with my models . . . they inspire me . . . and I want some essence of who they are to linger in what we create together.

Eric's favourite images

I was inspired years ago by an image of Wynn Bullock’s – a nude girl sitting in meditation pose on a beach with the sea foam coming in to create patterns around her. I never forgot it. Beth in the water is my homage to that image from my past. I love the chaotic flow around her as she sits still.

Meditation Model: Beth Caldwell

I have found the selective focus of the Lensbaby often fits my vision. I like the tones and texture the Lensbaby gives to this image.

Nude with Black Flower Model: Katileania

I was drawn to the mystery of the pale figure emerging from the shadows in this image. Shot beneath the trees beside a stream just before a thunderstorm.

By the Stream Model: Zinn Star

Another image shot beside a stream, this time with the wonderful model Rhus. We in the Washington DC area in the US are truly blessed to have so many fine figure models available to us. I like the emotion in this image and how Rhus’ gaze is turned out of the frame.

Rhus #3 Model: Rhus

I don’t only work in natural light. I find the studio is also a wonderful arena for my work with a feeling of intimacy that locations sometimes don’t provide. In this image, I was playing with the tone and texture of the stark white dried blossom against the background of the figure in shadow.

Untitled Model: Katileania

There is something interesting about the masked nude figure . . . the contrast of anonymity and exposure. Rhus’ pose brings a hint of dark energy to the image.

Masked Dance Model: Rhus

Sometimes it’s fun to play a little on the glamour side of things. Katlyn Lacoste is a terrifically versatile model and we had fun one day with the white plastic chair.

Untitled Model: Katlyn Lacoste

Cocoon Series #17 Model: Rhus

My latest project is the Cocoon Series. The prop is a nylon body cocoon that lends an air of mystery as well as a sculptural space to the body. This image was lit from a single window in an old warehouse. As with much of my work, the figure emerging from deep shadow draws my eye.

Wonderful work Eric, thank you for sharing with us.

An announcement

2011-08-27T20:13:00.000+02:00

Alex by David Holmes

Hello everyone
we would like to make an announcement. Chris is on sabbatical. It will be myself, Roswell, Mosa and the contributing editors who will run UdA.
Apologies to those who have already sent pictures and information about themselves and who are still waiting for a feature. We have been in a transitional phase and some of us have been away. The features will appear as promised. We actually have a full programme of features and we are always willing to take into consideration any suggestion from followers. Please keep in touch with us. We will have features about male nudes, features of photographers who do not work in the 'classic' fine art nude mode and also features of visual artists - painters and sculptors. Everything that is a celebration of the human form.
We now have a Facebook page, please visit and like us! We are on Twitter as @Univdartistes Please follow us! and we have a new email address which you should use to send us suggestions for features etc. univdartistes at gmail.com (substitute at with @)

Have a great weekend! Alex for the UdA team

Alex Ingram

2011-08-16T13:34:00.086+02:00

Alex Ingram is someone very dear in my heart. When I first published this article I didn't know who was this Master. And I discovered, from weeks to weeks, the wonderful human he was beyond his talent. His artworks are on my walls ! Imagine how proud I am. When I see his dedicated and signed master pieces, with the name of the art-model ! Because he knows that nothing can be created alone.

So here he is. Again and again. A close friend full of beautiful words. With a vision I share. I'm his fan.

" The concept from the outset was to contrast the curves of the body and smooth skin tones with natural elements of rock, trees and water.

The style has developed to encompass some other aspects, often suggested by models whose input I greatly value and look upon shoots as being a collaborative process." Alex Ingram

"Bothy"
Art Model Madame Bink -

This artwork is now on my wall ! Thanks Alex, you're great !

"Bridge"

Art Model Madame Bink

You'll find Alex Ingram at : Fleeting Image, Lochcarron, One Model Place, Muse Cube, deviantART.

"Hair Shapes"

Art Model Joceline Brooke-Hamilton

"Broch"
Art Model Madame Bink

Alex Ingram is a talented photographer we couldn't miss. Of course, there is no hazard when passion is guiding you.

Photographer for over 40 years, from NW Highlands, UK, Associate of the British Institute of Professional Photography, member of the Master Photographers Association and the Royal Photographic Society, Alex loves to shoot in his wonderful landscapes of his magic Scotland.

His way to direct his splendid models, among the most renowned such as Kat Love, is always very inspired. Each shot tells us a story and elevates the nude into the realm of Art. His compositions are perfectly mastered, his lights fantastic. So everything is there for the outbreathing "Wow!" factor we love so much.

"Snow Kat"
Art Model and Photographer Kat Love -

" Last time I worked with Kat was in California at 114F, this time Kat came to the Highlands of Scotland and we did a quick shoot in snow at her request. Snow pictures of this type tend not to work in black & white, snow looks like sand !"

Let's hear him :

"Singapore 1"
Art Model Iveta Niklova

It was only in April 2001 that the opportunity arose for my first fine art shoot, despite being involved in photography since schooldays in the mid fifties.

Nearly twenty of twenty-five years in the police I was a forensic photographer and cameraman, in addition to the other aspects of scene of crime work. Following an injury I had to leave the police in 1985 and eventually started as a freelance photographer and TV cameramen in Shropshire, England.

In 1988 a move was made to the remote North West Highlands of Scotland and the business had more emphasis on broadcast television, providing mainly news and current affairs for BBC, ITV, and other broadcasters. The photographic side was mainly commercial, with some tourism and press work.

Being a carer for my elderly mother meant work was gradually reduced as her condition deteriorated. The first fine art shoot with Tamalyn took place in a respite care week ; mother was a great supporter of this style of work and first to see the pictures.

On my wall too !

"Steaming Forest"

Art Model Joceline Brooke-Hamilton

"Rotorura, New Zealand. The steam is from the boiling water of the stream beyond Joceline and the other side of the trees. It's a geothermal volcanic area with hot rocks, mud holes bubbling from the earths interior, and rather unique pungent aroma of sulphur! Very difficult for the model because the steam comes & goes, so can means holding a pose for a long time until the right cloud effect appears for a fleeting moment."

"Cave girls"
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Art Models Joceline Brooke-Hamilton and Kat Love

"Moon dance"
Art Models Joceline Brooke-Hamilton
and Kat Love

" Kat (left) and Joceline in Joshua Tree National Park, California. The small Joshua Tree was included as the location has a particular significance to me. It was the first park and rural location that I ever visited in the USA."

The concept from the outset was to contrast the curves of the body and smooth skin tones with natural elements of rock, trees and water.

The style has developed to encompass some other aspects, often suggested by models whose input I greatly value and look upon shoots as being a collaborative process.

Arms & Legs

Art Model Joceline Brooke-Hamilton

"Totally Joceline's idea, are you allowed a nude without a torso ? Taken in bathroom of our room in Sigatoka, Fiji. Discovered the cupboard opened on bedroom side too, so could look straight through to bath, giving more space than usual. Flash was on top shelf of cupboard with large diffuser jammed in the gap between shelf & ceiling."

"Frozen waterfall"
Art Models Alison and Laura

During my involvement in this area of work I have met some wonderful people, not just the models but their partners too in many cases. We have become good friends and they have encouraged and supported me over some difficult times.

My mother died just before her 90th birthday in 2002, the same year I was sixty.

One of the last things she said to me on the final day was that she was glad that I had found this new circle of friends through this work.

Consequently instead of returning to fulltime work I decided to pursue my personal work to a greater degree.

My site is a tribute to the support my mother gave me in this project ; also to the great people I have met through all this work. Thank you all for your inspiration, dedication and friendship.

"Portrait 1"
Art Model Alison

" I have always been fascinated by Alison's facial expressions, something she uses within fine art modelling far more than anyone else I have worked with in this field. Alison was squatted on the floor in my lounge naked in this unusual position. The train she was shortly to catch was in sight across the loch. Once the moment was captured it was a mad dash to the station 3 miles away !"

"Casual"
Art Model Alison

" This casual shot of Alison was at the end of a shoot, taken just before Portrait - 1. It's near the back of my lounge, well away from the window."

Alex Ingram ©

Women by Women exhibition

2011-08-16T13:00:00.000+02:00

by Elipa -

"Obscurity of time"
Self Composition

by Jan Murphy -

"Openly Gentle"
Art Model Xivyx

by Katarzyna Rzeszowska -

"36"

by Anca Cernoschi -

"Room 1"

by Marquita Norwood -

"Take Me With You"
Self Composition

by Elisa Lazo de Valdez -

"Wind I"

by Antonina

by Patricia Izzo -

"Bella Donna"

by Barbara Cole

"Without Pretense"

by Lara Jade -

"Holly Studio I"
Model Holly

by Maria Candler

by Kat Love -

"Risk"
Self portrait

by Lorraine Daley

"The cupboard is bare"

by Wendy Levin -

"Fledgling"

Art Model Brooke Lynne -

by Angelicatas -

"Naiad"

by Daria Malysheva -

"Time to choose"

by Haleh Bryan

"The end is not near"

by Minon -

".."
Self

by Elena Vasilieva

by Elena Moncrieff -

"Insecurity"

by Sabine Schoenberger -

"Im Reich der Elfen"
Art Model Marie

by Vic -

"La Femme Bleue"
Self

by Harizma -

"Self portrait"

by Iris Dassault -

Art Model Mary40

by Tanya Rudenko

"Y"

by Erin -

"A sofa in Brooklyn"
Art Model Bellabrooke -

by Calliope's Room -

"Watchful of Grace"

by Lora Palmer -

"Dreams"

by Mimi Nikolova

"Autumn"

by Nadia Wicker

"3"
Self portrait

by Zhang Jingna -

"of the Night"
Model Landy

by J. Borodina (Eliara) -

" Promise"

by GOnFriday -

" Sun and moon"

by Anna Piovani -

"Chinese box"

Welcome to Roswell Ivory, new Contributing Editor

2011-08-07T21:36:00.003+02:00

I am delighted to welcome Roswell Ivory, model and writer - read her blog at WordPress - as a contributing editor of UdA. Roswell is one of the most active models on the UK art nude scene. I have interviewed her on behalf of UdA and asked her to select her favourite images in her portfolio.

Roswell in her own words:
It has been five years since I was spotted by a talent scout at a festival and began modelling- and if I said I loved every minute of it, you’d probably roll your eyes and skip to the next article in the hope that the model doesn’t use that old chestnut again… so I won’t…

I often get freezing cold, swelteringly hot, soaking wet and very tired when posing, because that’s the life of a nude model. But what I do love, other than the travel, the meeting people, and yes occasionally (ok, usually) even the photoshoot itself, is seeing the shots at the end and knowing those bruises were worth it and will continue being worth it for years to come.

So bring on that muddy field, frosty November waterfall and jagged cliff edge, because scenery usually looks better with a naked lady!

My favourite images in my portfolio

This is the picture that still gets the most feedback, even today. I had met Titus a long time ago but it was a year later that we did this photoshoot. Sometimes, you’re posing and the photographer’s clicking away and you both stop because you know you have The Shot right there. This was one of those moments.

By Titus Powell

by Gregory Miles Brown

I was in Spain with three photographers and two other models on an art-nude expedition. The original plan was have the material billowing in the wind except there was no wind and therefore no billowage! It was my idea to tie the material to the metal ring but I can’t remember who decided I should lean back. Either way, this is one of my favourite shots in my portfolio.

by Rares Pulbere

I can’t possibly convey how tired I was before this shoot (spending the night in an airport is not fun), but as soon as I began posing, adrenaline kicked in. We’re in Barcelona’s Parc Labyrinth which is full of statues of Greek deities and has resident herons! (I was watching one which was eyeing the fish in the pond, and trying not to disturb it as I moved around).

by G. Haskew

Backroads of Cornwall with photographer G Haskew, when our road was closed and we had to take a detour. This piece of Middle Earth loomed in front of us and at some point during my spiel of Lord of the Rings fangirl bliss, I managed to take my clothes off and pose!

(You can tell I wasn’t planning to shoot that day- I’d plaited my hair before bed the previous night which is why it’s wavy!)

I like that this image combines art-nude and fetish as these genres provide the majority of my work. I didn’t think I'd get a chance to show off my “pony boots” during an art-nude booking, but I was glad I did. (Yes, I can walk in them too…)

by Gregory Miles Brown

by Sylvie Blum

I was shooting with Sylvie Blum at around 6am and remember bursting out laughing just before this shot. I had been bullied throughout my childhood and teen years and at that moment was thinking about how far I‘ve come since then.

I think, right there, you are seeing the happiest woman on the planet.

One of the last shots from the Spain art-nude trip. All week, I’d been after some simple but sultry images and here is one, taken against the wall of our villa by John Tisbury.

by John Tisbury

I love the natural world and never feel more at home posing than when I’m out in the wild somewhere! I just love the impact of this location (which looks exactly like this- minimal photoshop), and it’s just down the road from me!

by Latent Lure

Another from Barcelona’s Parc Labyrinth. We came across this little shelter and I fell in love with it! So I posed inside, outside, in the doorway, against the wall and hanging from the window bars… I’ve always liked experimenting and challenging myself on photoshoots- I’d rather try something and look ridiculous, than do the same pose and expression in every photo.

by Rares Pulbere

by Sylvie Blum

Another from Paris- against the bridge of Alexander III. Despite the seriously early hour, there were people bustling about and so we could only spend around five minutes at each location! I made the coat myself…

I have many more images in my port which I truly love.

And, before I forget, I would like to credit photographer Shaun Colclough. The lessons I learned during our short photoshoot will certainly stay with me for my modelling career. Though our shoot produced no usable images, I am currently trying to pass the lessons on and have dedicated a blog entry to my experience with him. Thanks, Shaun.

Thank you Roswell. I truly look forward to collaborating with you.

Scott Nichol and David Winge next exhibition at Manifest Gallery, Cincinatti

2011-08-05T12:48:00.002+02:00

Congratulation to contributing artists Scott Nichol and David Winge. Their works have been chosen for exhibition at :

The 3rd Annual N U D E

Manifest Gallery - Cincinnati (Usa)

August 12 – September 9

For this exhibit 179 artists submitted 406 works for consideration. Twenty-three works by 19 artists from 13 states and Germany were selected by our two-part jury/curatorial process for presentation in the gallery and catalog.

David Winge dwingephotography.com

"Zenith"
With "the penomenal" dixit David, Art Model NevaehLleh -

Scott Nichol silverystars.com

"An International Competitive Exhibit Exploring the Uncovered Human Form in Current Art" and will be among those on display at MANIFEST Gallery in Cincinnati, OH, August 12 – September 9 :

Manifest Gallery - Cincinatti

August 12 – September 9

Sunshineinthe desert: modelling in your fifties

2011-08-01T17:13:00.003+02:00

Sunshineinthedesert started modelling at 54. Find her on deviantArt and also her blog, 55 and doing what? I have interviewed her for UdA and asked her to talk about her favourite images in her portfolio.

How did it all start?

"Naked Tree" by Still Metallic

I started to model as a fine art nude model in the spring of 2010. I had completed two shoots previously in 2008 with a partner of mine; however, I had never considered myself a model. Said partner encouraged me in the spring of 2010 to sign onto Model Mayhem and One Model Place and give it a go.

Performing arts have always been a part of my life since an early age. I started with dance classes when I was five or six. Then in high school I was extremely active in Theatre as well as Modern Dance. I went on to complete a degree in Theatre Arts at University.

Dance, singing, and acting have been a very big part of my life. Modeling seemed to be a natural progression of my performing abilities. The main difference being it is nearly always an audience of one. The results being viewed by others - but the actually "doing" is a private collaboration of photographer and model.

I have now had the opportunity to work with numerous talented photographers. Nearly all I consider to be lifelong friends. This particular art medium seems to attract interesting and highly intelligent people. To a one I have been entertained and delighted to be in their company.

My favourite images

"Leverage"

by Jawar

I recently had the pleasure of shooting with an outdoor photographer I consider one of the best. His images are breathtaking. This pose was one I suggested. I knew when James pushed the shutter that we would have a great image. That doesn't always happen, but it's a thrill when it does.

"Shopping Spree" by D. Keith Furon

This image was taken while traveling in France with D. Keith. We both wanted an image taken on the streets of Paris. We were told by another photographer who lives there that this was impossible. That's all we needed to hear. My raincoat was "at the ready", but we got the shot we wanted.

"Afternoon delight" by Dave Swanson, Shadowscape Studios

Dave Swanson and I have shot together many times since last November. His previous images of this area always intrigued me. This is a very busy canyon at Starved Rock; however, timing is everything. We waited for a group to leave - driven off by the mosquitoes - and then I waded into the water under the falls. Gorgeous capture in a gorgeous location - Dave's signature.

"Cavern Curve" by B.H. Fotografik

This image recently received a "Daily Deviation" on deviantArt. It has now been viewed over 11,000 times. Thanks to those that suggested it. When Bruce and I were working in this side area of this slot canyon I knew I wanted to meld my body as much as possible into the landscape. The first time I had the chance to view the images from this shoot THIS was the image I loved the most.

"Waterfall" by A. Fein Photo

I worked with Aaron only briefly one morning on Kauai. He is the youngest photographer I have worked with to date - and, I am the oldest model he has worked with. Such a talent at such a young age. I just had to include one of his images. And who wouldn't want an image as beautiful as this in their port - the ubiquitous waterfall shot.

"The Dunes" by J. Stemmer Photography

I have only had the opportunity to shoot with this photographer once. But, do I have some drop dead gorgeous images from this shoot. The light was perfect, the blue drape so lovely against the white dunes, and, I got to show off a few dance moves in the process.

"Pebbles in the Lake" by Shadowscape Studios

Another one by Dave. Really love the shimmering water

"Struggle to be Relevant" by David Winge

David is such a joy to work with. Enthusiastic and so knowledgable about the desert. He knows every nook and cranny of our desert landscape. David's another one that shoots like crazy. He shared with me that his muse Pearl gives him "the finger" when she thinks he should stop. A morning spent driving around in Rocks Anne is a great morning.

"Ripples under foot" by Still Metallic

Ian and I have shot many times together. He is one of the nicest men on the face of the planet. And, I think he has taken more beautiful images of me than any of my other photographers. There is a chemistry between us that is so special. It was difficult to chose a single image to share as there are so many. Models - RUN to work with this man you will not regret a moment of your time.

Thank you Sunshineinthedesert! You are a true inspiration to all models for your daring and joi de vivre!

Jeff Wack

2011-08-01T14:47:00.008+02:00

You'll find Jeff Wack at : his official site, Model Mayhem.

"La Bella"
Art Model NevaehLleh
Inspired by Tamara de Lempicka - "La belle Raffaela" (1927)

"A Starry Night"

"Fleurs du Coeur"

" His attention to the overall flow and expression, combined with an eye for fine detail, allows each piece to move through time and space with exquisite beauty."
J Michael Huey - HueyTunes

Space, energy, ethereal, timeless, are some of the favorite words of Jeff Wack. Or the most written about his work.

Mixing successfully photography and digital painting, Jeff Wack is also an inspired symbolist. All his pieces have a sense that you may catch if you take the time to watch these details which make him so famous. For my part, I see that Jeff creates his artworks like a poet writes, with harmony, behind the words, and grace, beyond "the reality", if it exists.

Yes, I'm impressed by the depth of his inspiration. And of course by the high quality of his work in such a difficult exercise. I'm sure that Max Sauco and Joel Belmont will agree.

Before to enter in his Artist's universe, I want to thank Jeff for his support and trust. Welcome !

"Inner Spark"

“ I allow the timeless beauty of the female form to inspire my works. Throughout the ages it has been a source of, wonderment and intrigue for countless artists of all media.

My Goal is to infuse each figure’s world with a timeless sense of etherreal space and energy much beyond a mere model against a studio backdrop.”

"Iris"
Art Model Katrine Taylor

Internationally acclaimed artist/photographer, based at Los Angeles, Usa, Jeff Wack has brought his talent and craft into full force in his stunning collection of beautiful women titled the "Sensuous Muse Collection."
Employing his masterful techniques of photography and digital painting, each piece presents a timeless moment captured with a sense of magical light and color, an ethereal mix of reality and idealized feminine mystique.

"The Garden Tree"
Art Model NevaehLleh -

Jeff Wack about the "Sensuous Muse Collection" :

"The Arising"

" This series of figurative work started 3 years ago as a "passion" or "labor of love". I've created time, in and around my other commissioned work, but feel that this is the highest realization of both my narrative and technical abilities as an artist.

My aim has been to depict the female figure in a stylized, beautiful and ethereal way evoking the energy of each woman.

For me the sensuous form of the female figure has, and continues to be a classic subject matter throughout the ages and has also inspired many legions of artists of all disciplines. In that sense I am no different then those who have gone before me.

"Artemis"
Art Model Forest Redding

"Alchemy"

The work itself is done digitally and is a combination of my photography and painting.

All the models are shot in a small studio against a plain background. All the other background elements are added from my own photos , often of natural scenery.

I have also been influenced by some classic work by other artists ranging from the Renaissance to Art Deco as seen in my pieces "Venus" and "La Bella NevaehLleh" (above) :

"Venus"
Art Model Tiana Hunter

Inspired by Sandro Botticelli - "The Birth of de Venus" (1485)

"Aurous Dream"
Art Models Shelby Katz and Katz Pajamaz

I have been fortunate to meet some wonderful and beautiful models who have posed for my work and I owe them all a debt of gratitude.

I hope the viewer senses their presence reflected in the artworks, and my love in creating them. I very much look forward to creating additional works and collaborating with many more kindred souls.

On my site, the individual Fine-Art Giclee prints on archival matte artist's paper faithfully reproduce all the richness and vivid color of the original works. Inks are of the highest archival quality, the final result having a rich, luscious depth and vibrant intensity.
Poster size archival quality giclee prints are available for order on my website. Original sizes are 20X28" and 16X28"."

"Calla Rosada"
Art Model Jen

"Back to Origins" Exhibition

2011-07-31T18:06:00.001+02:00

Nuri Bilge Ceylan

"Nude on the log"

Doug Winsor -

"Storm coming"

Christophe Vermare -

"Nude 02"

Steve Johns -

"Vertigo"

Rob Benson -

"Waves"

André Brito -

"Black Beach"

Dan West -

"By the Seaside"

Gerhardt Thompson -

"Cool Sands"

Ralph Schenck -

"L Beach"

Niko Guido

a muse on the road

2011-07-24T11:57:00.001+02:00

In past few years I have had the privilege of working with models who travel all year around. They live like nomads who work and inspire artists nationwide and even internationally. Occasionally one would stay in my studio while working Southern California and enhancing my life even more...

As far as I know this is a very new life style (archetype) and only possible by advancement of communication and new social networks.

Katlyn’s video here is best sample of this new breed of muses:

(video is by Bastard Artist and Katlyn Lacoste)

and a blog representing a few others: The Traveling Models

**********
Editor's note:
The above is copy of a posting from my own blog from about 6 months ago, I've been getting very good respond from public for this and I finally had a chance to meet and work with Katlyn! What a wonderful young lady, she is also one of the best art models I've ever worked with.

With regards for each of them :)
.mosa

blog | web site | FaceBook

Meet China Hamilton, Master of Fine Art Erotic Photography

2011-07-19T16:42:00.003+02:00

I am really excited and proud to offer to our followers this interview with China Hamilton, undisputed master of Fine Art Erotic Photography. Mr Hamilton has kindly chosen for us eight of his favourite images and indicated why he likes them.

First, a concise bio.

China Hamilton, from Norbury, is an artist as well as a photographer. His tutelage in life drawing was under the renowned Fred Janes and he has been taking photographs since his teens. Mr Hamilton is one of the leading fine art photographers of the 20th century. He has received awards and accolades worldwide. and has published many books. His work has inspired generations of erotic photographers. In 1996 he was awarded the global title of Erotic Photographer of the Year.

"His work has often examined the darker side of female sexuality alongside his more traditional erotic pictures. Much of his later work is inspired by sadomasochistic subjects. This particular theme has made this aspect of his work controversial though its reflection upon the power and private expression of women has brought a new sensitivity and respect to this subject. "

More about Mr Hamilton and his philosophy can be found on his website

But let us hear him speak of his photography.

China Hamilton on China Hamilton
"I do not like, on a personal level all my work by any means, even if it passes my rigorous standards. Eight images is also too tight a group and so much has been left out. A number that I have chosen are powerfully explicit and sexually erotic. There is a long standing misunderstanding that fine art erotic photography has to follow certain rules of delicacy. The only rule that I work by is that my subject should be comfortable and at ease completely with her sexuality and that she should be portrayed as powerful and beautiful, even if submissive".

"One" by China Hamilton
I have always found restful comfort in this picture, there is a natural tranquillity in the image. The contemplation of the female, naked form sometimes needs to inhabit this space.

"Two" by China Hamilton
My subject here had a wonderful, erotic imagination, her lean and androgynous form embodies so much that is natural and potent in a woman. There is no hint of surrender to the shackles that bind her yet I know that it was a position and pose that aroused her deeply. There was significance about where the picture was taken. 'Camp 18' an old abandoned WWII prisoner of war camp in the north of England. The lighting was powerful summer sun that sent its fingers into the old building.

"Three" by China Hamilton
This is one of my eternal pictures of the rampant and displayed female bottom. She was a great Mistress and yet in her own private world she wanted to be seen so openly and so symbolically restrained by the historic manacles. The pose itself is lustful, the arching of the back and the thrusting and spreading of the full buttocks is all from her, to share with those who look.

"Four" by China Hamilton
This is to me a moment of pure erotic and sexual abandonment. It is so completely woman, the used and sated lover upon the bed, a woman in her dreams. A woman of our dream.

"Five" by China Hamilton
Here is my favourite picture of my great muse and lover, there is little that I can add as I feel the picture communicates it all, the pure beauty of the naked back and the utterly, intimate connection held in the expression of the face.

"Six" by China Hamilton
This is perhaps my ultimate corporal punishment picture of mine from so many. The pleasure of the cane is real for this woman who I have worked with over many years. Yet, without a bottom insight, the story is so clearly told of one of the oldest of sexual pleasures. It does though hold a question, is it before or is it after such punishing attentions?

"Seven" by China Hamilton
Strangely it is not the obvious statement of this picture that draws me back to it but its lighting and its beauty, or rather, her beauty.

"Eight" by China Hamilton
This image holds many of the triggers that I seek and use again and again in my work. The wrists look restrained yet they are not, the lighting is all and the pose mysterious, perhaps erotic, certainly beautiful but equally full of questions that only others can ask and can answer.

These are such beautiful images! Thank you very much Mr Hamilton for sharing the beauty of your work with us at UdA. Wishing you well in your future projects

Calvato

2011-07-19T11:00:00.003+02:00

by Calvato

It's Pinkerbell !

2011-07-13T15:53:00.011+02:00

Heather Morris (Pinkerbell2 on deviantArt, Pinkerbell on Purestorm) is a British model who has made a name for herself as an art nude and fetish model ever since she was discovered two years ago, at the age of thirty -six (yes, there is scope for women over thirty to model if they have the necessary talent).Since then she has gone from strength to strength, having worked with some of the best photographers in UK, from Mark Varley (contributing artist) for whom she has been a Muse from the beginning of her career to the great China Hamilton.

I have interviewed her for UdA.

Heather in her own words

"The Fragile" by Mark Varley

I consider myself among the luckiest people in the world to be doing something I love so much for a living. I fell into it almost by accident nearly two years ago after a lingering illness meant I had to resign from my position as a PA and I needed something flexible to allow me to return to full-time work at my own pace. Those plans to return to a 'proper job' are now on indefinite hold! My ever so slightly frivolous working name Pinkerbell was a nickname long before I started modelling. It was given to me by my rather lovely Mother-in-Law after a Ladies' night event where my ballgown left a trail of glitter wherever I went!

(Editor's note: Pinkerbell according to Urban Dictionary is a very sexy girl who likes pink and loves the 8o's. Maybe she meant Tinkerbell? Smiles.)

My favourite pictures

"The zen of anger" by Mark Varley

One of my very first bookings was with Mark Varley and one of my all time favourites; "Zen of Anger" was from that first shoot. The concept was Mark's idea and as he directed me into position, he managed to capture my expression, just as I 'got' the joke!

(Editor's note: I love this picture myself so much so that I tried to copy it in a recent shoot)

"Thirteen" by China Hamilton

This is my favourite image from an exceptionally intense shoot with the wonderful China Hamilton

"Rhodes 4" by Art Zilio

I have been drawn to architectural ruins since I was a child, so an opportunity to shoot with Art Zilio in Rhodes was a dream come true.

On my return from Rhodes, I opened my dA mail to find this one had received a Daily Deviation!

"Reclined" by KL Photography

(Editor's note: a Daily Deviation is an image chosen by devianArt admin to showcase to the membership. It usually receives many hits and comments and gets the selected member in the spotlight)

"Creation" by Mark Varley

I've always posed instinctively, but on seeing this photograph, it dawned on me that a childhood obsession with classical art and sculpture had provided a solid grounding. This particular image was unintentionally inspired by Michelangelo's Creation of Adam

"Alabaster" by Dingo Dave

Experimenting with infra-red photography with Dave Ellis working with and exploring a new medium was really energising, creatively speaking, and is an area we definitely want to develop further.

"Tempest" by Mark Varley

"Tempest" was shot at a beautiful little ruined church just down the road from me. The trip was only really meant to be a quick 'recce' as the weather was unpredictable at best, but wild horses couldn't have dragged me down from that alcove once I'd set eyes on it!

"Human Geometry" from an exciting shoot with Rod Scivyer spent dodging dog-walkers along the canals of Nothamptonshire! The lock gates are a wonderful example of the beauty and functionality typical of the craftsmanship during the industrial revolution. I wish I could say I had thought of using the footholds this way, but it was Rod who asked me to curve myself along them to get this image.

"Human geometry" by Rod Scivyer

"Aurous" by Mark Varley

"Aurous" was the perfect end to a perfect day! At this point in the evening, Mark Varley and I were both exhausted and exhilarated, having spent a good 10 hours exploring and shooting. We didn't quite make it till sunset, so this was the last shot of the day.

Thank you Heather for allowing me to interview you. Wishing you all the very best with your modelling, I am sure you will have more and more images you will be proud of.

A little frenchy ?

2011-07-13T13:05:00.002+02:00

But eternal.

In the forest, exhibition

2011-07-10T11:02:00.000+02:00

Robert Lubanski -
Art Model Claudia

"Thinking"

Howard Nowlan -
Art Model Magenta -

"Morning Glory"

Evgeniy Shaman -

"Travelling with the night wind"

Beau eRomantica -

"Phloem I"

F.W. Scharpf -
Art Model and Photographer Kat Love -

"KatL 15"

Joel Belmont -

"Untitled 27"

Jarda Balek -

"Poison Ivy"

Darren Phillips -
Art Model Melanie

David LeBeck -
Art Models Escura and Chloé

"Sea Nymphs, 082"

Scott Nichol -
Art Model Christy

"Fallen Tree"

Andrew Kaiser -

"To Hide My Face"

Dave Ayerst Davies -
Art Model ERosanne

"Wood Nymph"

Laurie Jeffery -

Michal Plihal -

"Hana 09"