Physical art is an important outlet for a lot of people, and artists are quick to take advantage of any opportunity they can find to improve their abilities. To walk into a room and see a dozen people focused on their passion may be inspiring to many. 

For those seeking such inspiration, the art department at American River College invites experienced and new artists alike to participate in their weekly “Figure Friday” events, which focus on the prospect of figure art. 

Figurative artistry is a form of art that has been around “for thousands of years,” according to an article posted on Tate, an art brand based in the United Kingdom. The article also explains that the human figure has been used in art throughout history “to tell stories or express beliefs, or to explore what it is to be human.”

For the price of $10, artists can spend around three hours practicing their artistic abilities and gaining valuable experience in their designated field. The events are hosted by Sarah Mattson, an art professor at ARC, and are located in the Fine Arts building in Room 510. 

Mattson is a lifelong visual artist and considers the figure to be her “motif.” 

“I was inspired to start Figure Friday so students can get more practice time with a live model,” Mattson said. “There’s a handful of students who never show up, but the ones who do, I see vast improvement. The more practice you get, the better you get.” 

Along with Mattson hosting the event, she also participates in the activity weekly. 

“I practice what I teach and preach. I love being here, I need to practice and keep getting my skills up,” Mattson said.

Erik Castellanos, an adjunct art professor at ARC, says he values the weekly sessions. 

“The fastest way to learn to draw is to draw from life,” Castellanos said. 

Castellanos contends that there’s a certain power when it comes to drawing the human figure. 

“You have somebody that’s being vulnerable with their body,” Castellanos said.“I think that what we’re trying to do is just connect with human community and sharpen our skills.”

Charles Ackley, a communication studies and studio art student at Sacramento State, is a figure art enthusiast who says he is thankful for the opportunity to get some extra practice. 

“It’s a way to appreciate the human body,” Ackley said. “It’s really hard to get practice with a real life nude model. I think it’s just a way for me to practice all avenues of art.”

To find more information about Figure Friday, you can visit the page detailing it in the Student Events calendar, along with ways to contact Mattson.