I modeled in an open studio portrait drawing and painting three hour session Wednesday night at Gage Academy of Art, North Capitol Hill, Seattle. I’ve been attending the workshop for two months developing observational drawing skills attempting to capture a realistic likeness while infusing a sense of self-expression into the sitter’s gaze. The class is free but you’re eventually called to model clothed among the dozen or more artists. I was asked and I took the seat on the raised platform enjoying the experience as my body remained still with deep breathing while my mind was free to wander. After a twenty minute timer, I would get up and rest five minutes repeating the process nine times. The five artists who drew and painted my likeness were each impressively unique bringing their own interpretive skill to the easel.