Hook model

What does a life model do? – tasks and work environment

A life model primarily works by posing for artists and art students during so-called life drawing sessions, where quick sketches of the human body form the basis for practice and artistic development. Tasks involve adopting various poses, often without clothing, for short or longer periods. The environment is usually quiet and focused, often in studios, schools, or art halls. The model needs to demonstrate great body awareness, patience, and the ability to maintain static positions over varying time intervals, sometimes with minimal rest between poses. The profession is characterized by respect and professionalism, where integrity and safety are central aspects.

Salary development over time

The average monthly salary for a life model has shown a steady but slow increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,600 SEK, increasing to 31 500 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary reached 32 300 SEK per month, representing a total increase of about 5.5% over three years. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified models in creative educational environments, while the job market for artistic professions remains relatively stable. Salary growth differences between genders have also become clearer, with women now earning over 13% more than men in the profession. Salaries are somewhat affected by the type of employment (permanent or hourly) and geographic factors, although available data indicate limited regional differences.

Life model salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 29,800 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 33,800 SEK/month
• Hourly rate (average): 194 SEK/hour
• Women: 33,800 SEK/month (113% of men's salary)
• Men: 29,800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Limited/minor variation

Education and qualifications

No formal education is required to work as a life model, but some art schools and educational institutions may offer workshops or introductory courses for new models. Many employers value experience with bodily expression, such as through dance, theater, or yoga. Important qualifications include the ability to feel comfortable with one's own body and to hold different positions for longer periods. Practical experience is often advantageous and can be built up by participating in artistic projects or through contact with local art associations.

• Formal education: Not required, but courses are available
• Practice/experience: Meritorious, often through art schools or workshops
• Prerequisites: Body awareness, expressive ability
• Certifications: Uncommon, but some schools offer certificates
• Tips for choosing: Try shorter modeling assignments to build experience and network

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to salary, compensation for travel time and sometimes for materials or changing clothes is often offered. Some employers provide dressing rooms and breaks during longer work sessions. Models may also participate in artistic projects, exhibitions, or courses at reduced prices, which can provide valuable contacts and experience. Social benefits and pension contributions are rare, especially with hourly employment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for assignments as a life model is relatively high, especially in larger cities where many art schools and programs exist. The number of available jobs in the profession is limited, and many assignments are temporary or project-based. Physically, the work can be demanding, as it involves holding positions for extended periods, sometimes in uncomfortable postures. An additional challenge is managing the vulnerability that the profession entails, both physically and mentally. Building a reputation for reliability and professionalism is crucial for securing recurring assignments and long-term collaborations.

Tips for those who want to become a life model

To succeed as a life model, it is good to have an open attitude towards new situations and be comfortable with your body, which facilitates holding different poses in front of audiences or groups. Flexibility is important, as assignments can vary in length and form, and quick adaptation to instructions may be required. Building endurance and patience makes it easier to handle physically demanding sessions, especially during longer shifts. Punctuality and reliability are appreciated by employers and increase the chances of recurring assignments. Self-confidence combined with responsiveness to the artist's wishes contributes to successful collaboration and strengthens the professional role. It is also wise to actively network with artists and educational institutions to find new opportunities.

Key facts about life modeling

• Educational level: No formal requirements
• Work environment: Studios, art schools, cultural centers
• Type of employment: Hourly or project-based
• Gender distribution: Women earn higher salaries in the profession
• Demand: Approximately 550 available jobs within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, a life model can secure more and more qualified assignments, often at art schools with higher demands on expression and variation. It is also common to combine the role with other creative or pedagogical professions, such as dancer, artist, or instructor at art courses. The Swedish Public Employment Service's statistics show a stable demand within the profession, with around 550 available jobs. Future prospects are considered relatively good, but the job market remains dependent on the education sector and cultural projects. In the long term, models with specialized skills in movement, anatomy, or performance art may find more niche and well-paid assignments.

Common questions about life modeling

• What does a life model earn?
  - A life model has an average salary of 32 300 SEK per month, with variation between 29,800 SEK and 33,800 SEK depending on experience, gender, and employer.
• How to become a life model?
  - No formal education is required, but experience with bodily expression and contacts with art schools or studios can facilitate getting assignments.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Patience, body awareness, flexibility, and reliability are central qualities in the profession.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 113% of what men do, which corresponds to 33,800 SEK compared to 29,800 SEK for men.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are approximately 550 available jobs within the profession, and competition is particularly high in major cities.
• Is the work physically demanding?
  - Yes, endurance and strength are required to hold poses for longer periods.
• What work environments are common?
  - Usually, life models work in studios, art schools, and cultural centers, but projects at museums or in public environments also occur.