Sitcom references aside, our Suit Up drawing events were a lot of fun. Altered Esthetics was asked by artists to organize live drawing groups so they could practice their technique. The education directors of our role-based board, Cassie and Kristy, set up this running institution, with Lupi helping to keep it going after their departure. Instead of hosting a nude drawing session, which was a little more common in the art world, we decided to theme it up.
Yes, more themes. Please tell me at this point you’re not surprised.
We hosted a monthly drawing group at the gallery where we had models volunteer to wear a variety of costumes: sports gear, fairy-tale costumes, formal wear, and more. Artists would join us for an evening as everybody sketched and talked. Every so often the workshop directors would take the Suit Up events on the road, people-watching and sketching at places like the Minnesota State Fair, Como Zoo, live concerts, and more. It was a fine example of the Altered Esthetics’ role-based board in action and as a community space even beyond exhibitions.
This post is adapted from It’s Never Going To Work: A Tale of Art and Nonprofits in the Minneapolis Community. The book includes illustrations by Athena Currier. ©2019 Jamie Schumacher.
It’s Never Going To Work is a light-hearted, illustrated book that offers real-life insights on founding a community space and nonprofit. It provides tools, tips, resources, and camaraderie to community organizers and anybody attempting something new.