Figure Model

Also called: Art Model, Life Model

Poses, often for long periods, for drawing and painting classes at art schools and studios.

A day in the life

A figure model holds a pose for 20 minutes at a time while a room of students draws, then takes a stretch break. Sessions run two to three hours. It requires stamina, stillness, and comfort in front of people.

Pay over a career

Starting
$24k
Typical
$35k
High
$52k

Estimate; typically $20-$35 per hour, part-time.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

No formal education, about 0 years after high school. No education required; reliability and professionalism matter.

Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Under $15k.

Outlook

Growing slowly. Small, steady demand from schools and drawing groups.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk for 10 years. Photo references and 3D models exist, but live models remain central to life-drawing classes.

Could start right away

Age 18+. One way to start: Contact local art schools, colleges and drawing groups that hire models

Start now, in high school

Classes: Dance or drama, Art elective, Physical education.

Official data: O*NET occupation 41-9012.

More Fine Arts careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.