A large open studio can be a detriment rather than a benefit. If you are too far from the model, or the model lighting is poor for your view, you will struggle. Also, if your drawing setup is unfamiliar and awkward, you will not benefit.
Before I was a public portrait artist, I used to get together with a few friends weekly and we would hire a model. It was better, smaller, and much more effective than a large group where you had no say in the lighting and pose. We had our own familiar tables, and environment. Having a consistent drawing envirnment for portrait drawing (lighting, distance from the model, board setup) is vital to getting a consistent likeness. Don't waste your money on a large open studio. Create one yourself!
|