FAQ

How is Dr. Sketchy's different from other open life drawing?

There are a few reasons why we're different. First, we host our sessions at the legendary Cameron House - so you have to be 19+, but you can sketch and drink at the same time! Second, our models aren't fully nude. Elaborate costume is encouraged, and usually that costuming comes off quickly. Full nudity is not permitted by the Cameron House's licence. Third, we fill the time between costumes with drawing contests and fabulous prizes.
Finally, and most importantly, we at Dr Sketchy's Toronto strive to bring you models that you will never see in other life drawing venues. From burlesque entertainers to the transgendered to the just plain fabulous!

Who are you? Who is Dr. Sketchy?

The Toronto chapter is coordinated and run by Brett Despotovich and Katherine Piro. Our official photographer is Brynne Kennedy. Dr Sketchy's was originally conceived by Molly Crabapple and A.V. Phibes in 2005.

What mediums can I use? What should I bring?

All dry mediums are okay, as are dip pens and a neat watercolour sets. Oil paints, messy mediums and stinky mediums are not okay. Please don't make a mess. You can bring your sketchpads, drawing boards, tablet PC, or whatever, but please keep the size under 18" x 24"

Are there easles? Tables? Sketchpads?

The Cameron House's back room has no room for easels, but pretty much every seat will give you some table space. Look at this pic for an idea. You will have to bring your own materials, like drawing boards, sketchbooks.

Can I reserve a seat?

For the time being we run a first-come-first-served policy that has worked out just fine. So far we haven't had to turn anyone away - but we've come close several times! Our capacity is around 40 sketchers. Please show up at 7:30pm on the nights to make sure that you get a seat you like.

Hey, why isn't the model naked? I thought this was life class!

The law forbids complete nudity without a special license. Besides, Dr. Sketchy models show more than enough flesh to get in all the latissimus dorsi and pectoralis major you might desire.

Dr. Sketchy's sounds cool. I wanna model? What's the deal?

We would be happy to work with you! The modelling schedule is 'curated', in a sense. We want to keep our sketchers on their toes so we try to mix it up from session to session. What we're looking for from you is the ability to take the stage and keep still poses. The more personality you come with the better the drawings will be! Interesting costumes are a big plus as well. We do also invite models to return, so if we like ya we'll have you back.

To apply, send a brief bio, a photo or two and a link to your website to drsketchytoronto@gmail.com

We pay our models $100 for the three hour session.

Dr. Sketchy's sounds cool. I own a business and want to sponsor you. Tell me some details.

We're always looking for sponsers for our art contests. Donations of cash or art related goods (sketchpads, ink, vagina puppets) will get you a logo on our poster, prominent placement on our website, on stage shoutouts, and eternal love. As of November 2007 our crowds have been steadily between 30-45 over the course of the night.
Email drsketchytoronto@gmail.com if you'd like to know more.

Dr. Sketchy's is the awesome, but I don't live in Toronto. How do I get my fill of dirty life drawing?

First make sure there isn't one in your home town already. Go to the Dr Sketchy's headquarters here and check the links. Nothing close? Start your own Dr. Sketchy's. Even if you live in Ottawa, all you need are a few artists, a hot model and a dream. Click your way over to the Start Your Own Dr. Sketchy's page.

I'm a socially maladept comic geek who lives in my parents basement. Can I come to Dr. Sketchy's and pick up girls?

No. No you can't.

I don't really draw, but I'd like to come and watch.

No. We're very sorry, but we put a lot of work into hosting a dream event for life sketchers. If you're insistent just make the effort to bring a sketchpad and a pencil and look busy. Who knows - you might discover a hidden talent!

I did a great drawing at Dr. Sketchy's. Can I send you a copy?

I'm only 18. Will I be able to get in?

Nope. The Cameron House is a bar and bars can't let you in unless your 19 here in Ontario.

I'm a photographer. Can I shoot pictures of your hottie models?

Generally, no. Dr. Sketchy's offical photographer is Brynne Kennedy, and she's amazing! The only exceptions are if a photographer is accompanying a big time newsie that's profiling us for a magazine or a paper. However, you're welcome to shoot us a line with your portfolio. If we like what we see, we'll consider it if there's ever an opening.

I want to help out at Dr. Sketchy's. Need any helper monkeys?

Yessiree! If you want to hang flyers, post on message boards, hand out postcards or spread the word, drop us an email.

When's the Dr. Sketchy's Official Rainy Day Colouring Book coming out?

It's out now. We will be selling copies for $20, or you can buy a copy online. And you really should own one.