Hampstead Life Drawing Class Relocates After Dispute Over Nudity and Children’s Sessions
A life drawing class that has been held at Hampstead Community Centre for nearly 30 years has been forced to find a new location after being told to either clothe its nude models or switch to an evening slot. The decision was made due to “safeguarding concerns” linked to children’s activities taking place nearby, according to the Trust managing the community centre.
Class organiser Tony Swann said that the request undermined the purpose of the class, as drawing clothed models contradicts traditional life drawing practices. He noted that the daytime schedule suited most participants, many of whom are retired, and emphasised that in three decades, there had been no complaints from parents or children.
Following the centre’s decision, the group has relocated to the Quaker Meeting House, situated just a short distance away. Mr Swann expressed his disappointment, describing the situation as “a morality issue” and questioning why life drawing, a respected art form, was now being viewed as inappropriate.
Community Centre’s Perspective
In response to criticism, the community centre clarified that the decision was not about prudishness, but was made to address safeguarding considerations. Trustee Guy Wingate mentioned that due to confidentiality and data protection, he could not elaborate on the specific concerns raised. He also reiterated that the centre is “comfortable with nudity in the correct context.”
Reaction from the Art Community
Life model Hilary Curtis, 63, pointed out that the class not only serves as an artistic outlet but also helps combat social isolation, especially among elderly attendees. She argued that the decision appeared to be rooted in outdated moral standards, as the centre would allow the class to continue if the models wore clothes.
The situation has sparked a debate within the local community about balancing safeguarding measures with preserving artistic freedom. Critics suggest that the decision sets a concerning precedent, questioning whether similar policies could affect other artistic or cultural activities in shared community spaces.
