Art, boobs, booze! Do we have your attention? That’s the idea behind Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School. Founded in 2005 by fierce  New York artist Molly Crabapple, the cabaret life drawing phenomenon has spread across the globe, now boasting over eighty chapters in several continents, everywhere from China to France. For four years artists, burlesque performers, and drunks have joined forces under the Dr. Sketchy’s flag to dispel art scene pretense in the name of creativity and fun.

On Sunday night, Los Angeles saw a long-awaited re-launch of its Dr. Sketchy’s division at Billy Shire Fine Arts in Culver City. The model: flame-haired fetish darling, Scar. The wardrobe:  deadly  platform stilettos and three changes of sleek latex by Fierce Couture. In attendance: Michael Hussar, Shag, Miss Mindy, Tim Biskup and many talented artists who came to support, drink and draw. Arsenals were mighty and diverse – charcoal,  pastels, graphic pens and watercolors are just some of the trade’s tools I saw brandished in Scar’s direction. Surprises and giveaways helped celebrate the occasion, with a Spencer Davis Booty Babe figurine as the grand prize and Robert of Baby Tattoo modeling for a Michael Hussar-judged contest. Outside, a burlesque cutie tended bar in full costume and impressed guests with her take on the margarita.

I’m left with a reinforced hope for community in the Los Angeles art arena and excited for the rest of the summer: future Dr. Sketchy’s nights are already in the works. On June 21st LA residents can join the excitement  at Medusa Lounge from 7 to 10 PM. Hone your skills and mingle at subsequent Sketchy’s sessions on the first Sunday of every month at Billy Shire Fine Arts, and the third Sunday of every month at Medusa Lounge.

Words and photos by Zoetica Ebb