Budding artists at London gallery rapped for snapping photos of naked models in life-drawing classes

BUDDING artists at one of the nation’s oldest galleries have been rapped for snapping photos of naked models in life-drawing classes.

Royal Academy of Arts members pay up to £65 for a tuition session.

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Classes include how to sketch in the style of Renaissance great Michelangelo.

But nude models have complained that artists have been using phones to snap ­pictures of them for “homework”.

Other artists have been seen checking handsets for messages in class.

Chiefs at the 250-year-old London institution have now emailed members to tell them such actions are forbidden.

One pupil confided to The Sun: “The modern-day curse of the mobile phone has even hit the prestigious Royal Academy.

“Taking pictures of the naked model to work on sketches at home is not acceptable.

“No-one wants to think it, but people could be using such images for selfish interests.

“It’s just not on, and has caused real upset among models.

“And gawping at phones is very off-putting.”

The Royal Academy’s Saturday morning life-drawing sessions are almost always sold out.

Guidance says: “Please do not photograph or record the model or other attendees unless given permission.

“Please speak to the tutor during a break if you would like the model to adjust their pose.

“If communicating with the model, please be respectful and professional.

“Please avoid using your phone during drawing time.”