Form, Not Sexuality: The Professional Realm of Indian Nude Art Models
In the intricate world of nude art modelling in India, two professionals—one a former finance expert and the other a tech specialist—share their journeys of vulnerability, safety, and societal resistance. This exploration delves into the realities of a field often misunderstood, highlighting the quest for respect and artistic integrity.
From Finance to Fine Art: Nikita Gordijin's Transformative Journey
In 2008, Nikita Gordijin, now 35, was a financial advisor grappling with heavy losses after the Indian stock market crash. Struggling with basic expenses, she was drawn to nude art modelling when a friend mentioned a photographer seeking an Indian model for fine art nude work. Initially hesitant due to her finance background, the substantial payment offered caught her attention, leading her to travel from Nagpur to Mumbai for a shoot.
Nikita recalls the experience as surprisingly professional and respectful, with clear boundaries that made her feel safe despite being nude. "Even though I was nude, I never felt uncomfortable or looked at in the wrong way," she said. Seeing the photographs shifted her perspective, helping her overcome internalized judgments about her petite, dusky physique and fostering newfound confidence. What began as a financial necessity evolved into a deeply personal and empowering career, with Nikita now working full-time across beauty, glamour, and fine art nude photography.
Tech Expert Turned Art Model: The Story of Life Art Mumbai
In contrast, a 48-year-old part-time model, known as Life Art Mumbai (LAM) in art circles, entered nude art modelling driven by a fascination with human figure study and creative energy. With a full-time tech career, he dedicates weekends to art modelling, organizing sessions, or creating art. "Art modelling in India, as it stands today, is not really sustainable as a full-time profession," he noted, emphasizing the need for balance with his 9-to-5 job.
The Structure and Professionalism of Nude Art Sessions
Nude art modelling sessions are described as calm, structured, and professional, with pre-shoot discussions on concepts, poses, and boundaries. "Everything is agreed upon in advance, which helps create a sense of trust," Nikita explained. The focus is on form, light, and expression, not sexuality, with models treated as collaborators.
Sessions vary in duration and type:
- Casual figure drawing sessions last 2-3 hours, with poses ranging from 2-3 minutes to 20 minutes, aimed at capturing gesture essence.
- Animation or design school sessions involve dynamic gestures with poses of 1-10 minutes.
- Fine art sessions may require a single pose over days or weeks, such as in classical ateliers like Samsara Academy of Art, where poses extend over five weeks with 60 hours of holding time.
Models maintain physical and mental fitness to endure long poses, with regular breaks every 20 minutes. Sessions are minimal in attendance to ensure privacy and focus.
Historical Roots and Cultural Connections
Nude art has deep roots in Indian history, with ancient temples, cave sculptures, and texts like the Kama Sutra portraying the human body naturally and symbolically. Goa-based artist Subodh Kerkar highlighted that nudity was celebrated in India before colonial influences imposed restrictions. Nikita feels a strong connection to this artistic past, seeing her work as a continuation of cultural heritage.
Safety, Boundaries, and Challenges
Safety is paramount, with organizers ensuring secure spaces, no photography, and model comfort. LAM emphasized the importance of checking credentials for first-time sessions. Nikita shared rare incidents of discomfort, such as unprofessional touches in India and inappropriate requests in Germany, which taught her to prioritize boundaries and dignity. "These incidents did not define my career but strengthened my clarity," she said.
Family Pressures and Social Resistance
Coming from a traditional Maharashtrian background, Nikita faced discomfort and disappointment from family and community when she chose nude art modelling. Her journey of resistance began earlier, with struggles to pursue education and a finance career. Over time, she limited engagement with judgmental individuals, focusing on peace and moving forward. LAM noted that figurative art is often misunderstood, leading him to share this part of his life selectively.
Earnings and Future Hopes
Income in nude art modelling varies, with payments based on hourly or daily rates. Nikita described it as fair but not excessive, supporting a sustainable lifestyle. She hopes for a societal shift to distinguish fine art from pornography, reconnecting with India's cultural heritage. LAM criticized colleges for low model fees and lack of figurative art sessions, calling for change to support artistic education.
Psychotherapist Delnna Rrajesh emphasized the need for emotional safety in artistic expression, noting that support fosters creativity while rejection leads to isolation. As the field evolves, models like Nikita and LAM advocate for respect, professionalism, and a brighter, more considerate future for nude art in India.
