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Artist Life Model Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SUMMARY The Life Model serves as a model for a variety of courses at Pacific Northwest ... Comfortable being nude or clothed in front of 20 or more artists for the duration of the pose

Life Model

Portland, OR · On-site

$20.81/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Life Model serves as a model for a variety of courses at Pacific Northwest ... Comfortable being nude or clothed in front of 20 or more artists for the duration of the pose

ART MODEL POOL

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$12 - $18/hr

... artists learning life form art. Work involves holding an assigned pose for a period of time varying from several minutes to a few hours. The Model is responsible for holding and getting back into a ...

Serves as a positive role model to all team members to create a happy work environment. * Staffs ... Hair technician preferred Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed ...

Serves as a positive role model to all team members to create a happy work environment. * Staffs ... Hair technician preferred Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed ...

Arts and Sciences | Art-JM Figure models will be the subject matter for studio art courses, specifically Life Drawing and Life Sculpture. Responsibilities will include posing unclothed for art class ...

Serves as a positive role model to all team members to create a happy work environment. * Staffs ... Hair technician preferred Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed ...

Serves as a positive role model to all team members to create a happy work environment. * Staffs ... Hair technician preferred Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed ...

ARTS 2323 (Life Drawing). This class meets for approximately six (6) hours per week throughout the ... Most modeling is in the nude and involves a variety of poses sustained over varying periods of time.

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Artist Life Model information

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$9

$24

$40

How much do artist life model jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for artist life model in the United States is $24.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Artist Life Model, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Artist Life Model, you need reliable punctuality, the ability to hold poses for extended periods, and a willingness to work with artists in both clothed and nude sessions, though formal qualifications are typically not required. Familiarity with studio etiquette and posing techniques, as well as any required safety or consent training, can be advantageous. Professionalism, body confidence, and good communication help models collaborate effectively with artists and instructors. These skills ensure sessions run smoothly, provide valuable reference material for artists, and maintain a respectful, productive environment.

What are artist life models?

Artist life models are individuals who pose for artists, art students, or art classes, typically in the nude or in costume, to help them practice and develop their drawing, painting, or sculpting skills. The role involves holding specific poses, sometimes for extended periods, to enable artists to study the human form, anatomy, and movement. Life models are essential for figure drawing sessions and contribute to the artistic process by providing a real-life reference. The job requires patience, professionalism, and the ability to remain still for long stretches of time.

How much does a life model get paid?

A life model typically earns between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the setting, such as art schools, studios, or workshops. Rates can vary widely, with some models paid per session or on a daily basis, and may include additional compensation for special projects or longer poses.

What can I expect during a typical session as an Artist Life Model, and how should I prepare?

As an Artist Life Model, you'll typically be asked to hold a variety of poses—ranging from quick gestures lasting a few minutes to longer poses that may last up to 30 minutes or more. Sessions often take place in art studios or classrooms with artists or students sketching or painting from life. To prepare, it's important to communicate with the instructor about the session's format, bring a robe or comfortable clothing for breaks, and practice holding still for extended periods to build endurance. Being punctual, professional, and comfortable with your own body are also key aspects of succeeding in this role.

How much do artist models make?

Artist models typically earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the setting. Pay can vary for life drawing sessions, private lessons, or studio work, with some models earning flat rates for specific events or sessions.

What is the 80/20 rule for artists?

The 80/20 rule for artists suggests that approximately 80% of their results come from 20% of their efforts, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the most impactful tasks such as practicing core skills or developing a strong portfolio. Artist life models should prioritize consistent practice and skill refinement to maximize their career opportunities and artistic growth.

What is the difference between Artist Life Model vs Art Instructor?

AspectArtist Life ModelArt Instructor
CredentialsNo formal credentials typically required; experience in posing often preferredUsually requires teaching certifications or art education background
Work EnvironmentArt studios, schools, or private sessions; primarily posing for artistsClassrooms, workshops, or online platforms; teaching art techniques
Industry UsageCommonly hired by art schools, studios, or individual artistsEmployed by educational institutions, art centers, or private studios

While Artist Life Models focus on posing for artists to draw or paint, Art Instructors teach art techniques and skills. Both roles are integral to art education but differ in responsibilities and credentials.

How to become a life model for artists?

To become a life model for artists, you should find local art schools, studios, or open call opportunities and submit a portfolio or photos if required. Maintaining a good physical condition, being comfortable with nudity or clothed poses, and having a reliable schedule are important. Some models also complete training or workshops to improve posing skills and understand artist needs.
More about Artist Life Model jobs
What cities are hiring for Artist Life Model jobs? Cities with the most Artist Life Model job openings:
What states have the most Artist Life Model jobs? States with the most job openings for Artist Life Model jobs include:
Infographic showing various Artist Life Model job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 53% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,263 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Life Model

$20.81/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Willamette University rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

ABOUT WILLAMETTE UNIVERSITY:

Willamette University, founded in 1842, is a nationally-renowned private university enrolling 2800 students across five colleges. Our historic campus, adjacent to the Oregon State Capitol, hosts a distinguished undergraduate liberal arts college in Salem, Oregon. Our downtown Portland campus is home to the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA). We offer a wide range of professional graduate programs, including Oregon's top-ranked MBA program, the Northwest's oldest law school, as well as MA/MFA programs at PNCA and master's degrees in data science and computer science.

Willamette University provides a high-value and comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Our Benefits Summary includes options for health, dental, life insurance, retirement, substantial paid time off, tuition and more. If you need assistance applying for a job or have any questions on recruitment at Willamette, please contact our HR Department, hr@willamette.edu or call us at 503-370-6210.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Life Model serves as a model for a variety of courses at Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA). This position is part time with flexible scheduling. We encourage all ages and body types to apply. The Life Model supports a diverse range of classes which include: Drawing, Painting, Illustration, Sculpture, 3D Design, and Animation. Life Models are an integral part of PNCA. Models give students the opportunity to work from life and gain valuable skills in observation, proportion, gesture, form, volume, movement, structure, and composition. As a Life Model, you will provide dynamic and inspiring poses for art students and professional artists. Your role will be pivotal in the creative process, offering a range of poses to support various artistic styles and mediums. Pacific Northwest College of Art is actively recruiting for a wide range of ethnicities, body types, age, abilities, etc.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Sustains a variety of nude or clothed poses for art students during classes up to 3 hours in duration. Clothed sessions may include: costumed, street wear, drapery or athletic clothing.

  • Provides a full range of traditional life drawing poses, from gestures to sustained poses, as required by tradition and as directed by the instructor

  • Poses in person

  • Maintains personal space and life modeling etiquette. Observes standard life model practices (i.e., brings own robe to wear between poses, etc.)

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum

  • Comfortable being nude or clothed in front of 20 or more artists for the duration of the pose

  • Ability to appropriately, sensitively, and professionally interact with instructors and students

  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including evenings as needed

  • Ability to keep scheduled commitments and be on time for modeling

  • Models of all ages and all body types are encouraged to apply

Preferred

  • Experience with yoga or dance poses

  • Prior modeling experience

Typical Work Schedule: 9 hours of modeling per month

Physical Demands & Working Conditions: Must be able to hold standing or seated poses for a minimum of 20 minutes. Accommodations can be made as needed.

Salary: $20.81/hour

You will need to upload the following two documents as part of your application materials in the "My Experience" section labeled Resume:

  • Cover letter addressing qualifications

  • Current resume

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Hiring for fall positions and scheduling will begin no later than August 1, 2026.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

BACKGROUND CHECK REQUIREMENT:
All University positions require that candidates submit to a criminal conviction record check prior to hire. Conviction does not automatically preclude candidates from being hired. Nature of conviction will be considered relative to the duties of the position.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS STATEMENT:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICANTS:

Please read the following carefully before beginning the online application process. To be considered for employment at Willamette University, please complete our online employment application. Your application and all required attachments -- listed at the bottom of the page -- must be submitted for each individual job post that you are interested in applying. Once you submit your application you will not be able to edit your application.


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