The Halifax branch of Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School could be closing, unless someone steps in to run the branch. Unfortunately, Miriam "Sketchy Monkey" Gibson will be stepping down after the next event.
Dr. Sketchy's is an alternative life-drawing movement with branches in most major cities in North America. But instead of the usual poses and models, the events feature costumed models---often members of the burlesque community.
Gibson's first event was in New York. Six models were set up and the event also featured cages for the artists to pose in. "You just wandered around, mingling and drawing whatever struck your fancy," Gibson says. She attended events in Halifax when she moved here in 2010, using the opportunity to maintain her life drawing skills and to meet new people. When the original person who ran the branch moved away, she was offered the position. "I got involved in running Sketchy's so that I could continue to provide life drawing for people who were interested in it, and to introduce life drawing to people who were curious about it, but were intimidated or unable to attend classes. Dr. Sketchy's was created to make this very cool experience available to anyone, no matter what their skill level is."
Events in Halifax are held monthly at Serpentine Studios. Some interesting themes have occurred at the local Halifax branch over the last couple of years, including mermaids, Alice in Wonderland and, one of Gibson's particular favourites---a Kung-fu theme. The models were incredibly acrobatic and struck kung-fu poses while being sketched. "You really never get to draw that kind of stuff in real life." Gibson says.
Those responsible, energetic artists who don't want to lose the night should consider contacting Gibson to find out what it takes to run the show. Her information can be found on the Dr. Sketchy Halifax Facebook page.
There's lots of support---Serpentine Studios, The Hub and Strange Adventures (the Halifax branch's official sponsor) have all pitched in to make Dr Sketchy's Halifax successful. Come experience what you could be missing at the next event.
