BREAKING: A recent life-drawing class in Brisbane has ignited a powerful movement toward body positivity, transforming participants and models alike. On March 3, 2024, aspiring author Emily Lighezzolo made the bold decision to model at a session curated by acclaimed artist Rebecca Cunningham, revealing profound insights about self-acceptance and artistry.
The popularity of life drawing has surged, with classes appearing in casual venues like bars and clubs. Cunningham’s sessions, held at Life Drawing Sessions, now attract around 50 attendees, a significant increase from her earlier days in 2014 when just 10 people would show up. Participants seek to reconnect with their creativity and immerse themselves in a mindful experience, stepping away from the distractions of today’s digital world.
Lighezzolo, who previously grappled with body image issues, described her first life-drawing experience as “magical.” As she sketched a model’s body, she found beauty in shapes often criticized in society. “For two hours, I achieved body neutrality,” she reflected, laying the groundwork for her debut novel, Life Drawing.
Upon securing a publishing deal, Lighezzolo faced the challenge of authentically promoting her work. She embraced a transformative journey by modeling in one of Cunningham’s sessions, repeating the mantra “my body is art.” Friends rallied around her, attending the session and providing emotional support, reinforcing the idea of community in overcoming insecurities.
The two-hour session unfolded in a cozy studio on the Gold Coast, adorned with murals of Frida Kahlo. With a warm and encouraging environment set by facilitator Bindi, Lighezzolo found herself shedding anxiety. “You’re beautiful,” Bindi reminded her, helping dissolve the nerves.
As the session commenced, Lighezzolo transitioned through poses, engaging in a meditative practice that allowed her to detach from the fear of judgment. “I learned that body positivity isn’t always about confidence,” she noted. Many models share insecurities that make the experience therapeutic, a surprising benefit that Cunningham had not anticipated.
The night culminated in a celebration of self-expression, where Lighezzolo viewed artists’ interpretations of her body, feeling a sense of love and acceptance she had never experienced before. “I looked down lovingly at my naked body in a room of strangers,” she said, reflecting on her journey of self-discovery.
Cunningham expressed her passion for creating a welcoming community, stating, “Life Drawing Sessions holds space for people to create.” Her work has made artistic expression accessible to thousands, allowing participants to embrace their vulnerabilities.
As Lighezzolo left the studio, she was gifted a drawing by Bindi, a lasting memento of her transformative experience. “If I can do this here, I can do it again,” she declared, inspiring others to embrace their bodies and step into the world of art.
The book Life Drawing by Emily Lighezzolo is set to release on March 3, 2024, marking a milestone in her journey and the ongoing conversation about body positivity and artistic expression. Share this story to inspire others to celebrate their bodies and the art they create!
