Bristol: Life drawing class with artist & nude model

Summary

Try a life drawing session in Bristol’s city center

Step into a private Bristol studio for a relaxed life drawing class led by an experienced artist. You’ll sketch from a live nude model, get gentle guidance (and maybe a laugh or two), enjoy drinks from the bar, and walk away with art you made yourself — plus that feeling of having tried something new you’ll remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked off St Stephens Street and into this tucked-away studio — honestly, I almost missed the door. Inside, it was warm and smelled faintly of charcoal and something sweet from the bar (maybe elderflower tonic?). Our group shuffled in, a bit giggly at first, but the artist — I think her name was Ruth — had this calm way of making everyone feel like we weren’t about to embarrass ourselves. She handed out thick paper and pencils that left smudges on your fingers right away.

The life drawing class started before I’d really settled in. The model just walked in, totally at ease, which somehow made us relax too. Ruth talked us through some quick sketches — “Don’t overthink it,” she said, which is harder than it sounds when you’re staring at a real person holding still under those bright lights. There was music playing quietly (Fleetwood Mac? Or maybe something local), and every so often someone would order a drink from the bar in the corner. It felt more like hanging out than anything formal.

I got lost in shading the curve of a shoulder, then realized my friend had drawn something that looked more like a potato than a person — we both cracked up quietly so we wouldn’t break the model’s pose. At one point Ruth came by and gave me this tip about using the side of the pencil for softer lines; I tried it and suddenly my sketch looked less stiff. I didn’t expect to actually improve in just 90 minutes, but I did. The whole thing felt oddly grounding — maybe because you have to really look at someone else for once, not just your phone or whatever.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Life Drawing Class in Bristol

• Life Drawing class with nude model
• Guidance by experienced artist
• Full bar service available

Top questions

Where is the life drawing class held?

The class takes place at 9 St Stephens Street, Bristol BS1 1EE.

Are all materials provided for the session?

Yes, all drawing materials are included for participants.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants or small children attend?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the session.

Is there public transportation nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options available close to the venue.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are permitted at the venue.

What’s included

Your experience includes all art materials for life drawing, guidance from an experienced artist throughout the session, use of a private venue with full bar service available if you want drinks while you draw, and access that’s fully wheelchair accessible for everyone’s comfort.