Our story: Advocating for Figure Models in NYC
Learn about the NYC Art Models Guild, our journey, and our commitment to supporting professional figure models in New York City. We champion fair wages, professional standards, and community building within the art industry. WE also like to have fun! Check out our event page!
Our founding and mission
The NYC Art Models Guild, established in 2023, is a grassroots association of professional figure models in the New York City metro area. Figure modeling is a core profession within the Arts and Humanities. New York City is the global epicenter of the multi-billion dollar art industry.This website serves as a crucial resource to inform teachers, institutions, artists, and places of learning about the professional standards required when working with live models across various visual art disciplines. From drawing, painting, and sculpture to fashion, illustration, animation, and photography, whether costumed or nude, understanding Industry Standards and Best Practices is essential for successful sessions for all parties. The #NYCAMG provides a central hub of information for figure models, educators, artists, and institutions to understand and implement the professional standards and protocols for conducting sessions with a live model.
Right to a Living Wage
If there is one thing the NYC Art Models Guild is advocating for it is a living wage for all professional figure models. We believe that models, as the building blocks of the art-making process, deserve to be recognized in tangible ways that provide them with the monetary means to save money, plan for retirement, and take care of medical needs and personal emergencies, just like any other worker. The Art Industry frequently claims financial hardship crying poor , but it is an open secret that it is a multi-billion dollar industry that often benefits a few while exploiting those whose hard labor upholds it. We are dedicated to ensuring fair compensation and respect for the invaluable contribution models make in an industry that is designed for profits.
Making a real difference together
We are proud of the significant wage rate hike we were able to broker, with the cooperation of a major art institute, which took effect in 2025. This is a crucial step in the right direction. The NYCAMG is equally proud of the grassroots community we have fostered among professional figure models. It provides a vital space to talk, support each other, discuss challenges, concerns, and address them collectively, while also finding our individual voices and sharing a laugh. This community provides strength and confidence in a profession that has been greatly misunderstood. We continually strive to create positive change and ensure models receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.