location
Hackney Picturehouse, E8 1HE
Attic (drawing hall)
From the lobby take the elevator to the fifth floor (attic). Exit the elevator and continue straight, through the double door, and the entrance is up the stairs on the left.
How would you like to get there?
general information
what to expect
session format
| Session | Durations |
|---|---|
| First | 1×10 min, 5×1.5 min, 3×5 min, 2×10 min |
| Break | Payments, chat, refreshments |
| Second | 3×15 min or 1×20 + 1×25 min |
We start at 7pm and run for 2 hours with a 15-minute break in between. — late arrivals still welcome.
pricing
- Pre-purchase via website £12.50
- Drop-in on the door £15.00
- Five sessions £10 × 5 £50.00
Book online to save — pre-purchase tickets from £12.50. Drop-ins always welcome on the door.
materials provided
- A2 paper (recycled and standard bond)
- A3 black and standard bond paper
- Selection of charcoal sticks
- Assorted pencils HB to 6B
- Pencil sharpeners & erasers
- A2 drawing board and clips
You are welcome to paint, but you are 100% responsible for any mess or damage caused by accidents of your own materials.
lighting
Natural light from the huge arced attic windows. House lights give even illumination for accurate colour. A high-luminosity spotlight (mounted 3m up) throws gorgeous hard shadows on the model without blinding anyone.
music
An eclectic shuffle of classical, rock, pop and contemporary — our playlist has a strange tendency to complement the mood.
good to know
- In person — this is an in-person only event
- No refunds — tickets are non-refundable
- Nudity — the subject will be unclothed
- The venue is wheelchair friendly
- Alcohol and food (and pop-corn) is available to purchase at the bar downstairs
frequently asked questions
What materials are provided?
Charcoal sticks, pencils (HB–6B), ballpoint pens and colour pastels. Paper: recycled A2, A3 standard bond, A2 black sugar paper. Extras: paper clips, erasers, sharpeners, craft knife, fixing spray, elastic bands and tape.
Is the drawing hall in the cinema theatre?
No — the drawing hall is in the attic of the cinema, with huge windows running down one wall, wooden floors, ample seating and high tables.
What is the lighting setup?
Natural light from the huge arced windows, general house lighting for accurate colour, and an optional coloured stage setup. The podium has a dedicated spotlight at 3m height — strong shadows without glare.
Do you play music during the session?
Yes — a massive eclectic playlist on random shuffle, selected for its energising and inspiring drawing qualities.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just yourself. All drawing materials are provided, though you're welcome to bring your own. Bring money or a card for the bar downstairs.
Can I pay on the door?
Yes — drop-in is £15 on the door. Pre-booking online is £12.50 and guarantees your place. We occasionally sell out, so booking ahead is recommended.
Is life drawing suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Our sessions are untutored and welcoming to everyone, from people who have never drawn before to professional illustrators. There is no instruction or critique — you just draw at your own pace. Most first-timers find the short gesture poses a great way to ease in.
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking is strongly recommended. Pre-purchased tickets are £12.50 and guarantee your place. We do accept drop-ins on the door at £15, but sessions can sell out — especially in spring and autumn. Book via the website to avoid disappointment.
Is the session tutored or guided?
No — our sessions are completely untutored. There is no teacher, no instruction and no critique. The model holds a series of timed poses and you draw freely. This format suits all levels and creates a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Can I become a life model?
Yes — we are always looking for new models of all body types, ages and backgrounds. Professional experience is welcome but not required. Visit our model register or get in touch via Instagram or WhatsApp to express your interest.
Is there a bar or café at the venue?
Yes — Hackney Picturehouse has a full bar on the ground floor, open during and after the session. It is a great place to wind down and socialise with other artists after drawing.
What is the age requirement?
Sessions are for adults aged 18 and over. Life drawing involves a nude model, so this is a strictly adults-only event.
How do I get to Hackney Picturehouse?
The venue is at 270 Mare Street, London E8 1HE. The nearest station is Hackney Central Overground (2 minutes' walk). Buses 48, 55, 106, 254, 277, 394 and N55 stop on Mare Street. Bicycle parking is available outside. There is limited street parking nearby.
Can I bring my own materials?
Yes — you are welcome to bring your own pens, pencils, paints or sketchbook. We provide a full set of materials for everyone as standard, so there is no obligation to bring anything.
Are tickets refundable?
Tickets are non-refundable. However, if you cannot attend a session your ticket is transferable — pass it to a friend or redeem it at a future event. Contact us via WhatsApp or Instagram if you need help.