Adar I 5768
Getting To The Art of The Matter
Rabbi Aaron Tendler
Lichvod Rabbi Tendler,
I am presently taking an art class in college. Could you please
clarify the following questions:
(a)What am I not allowed to draw or sculpt. Can I draw the human
form? Can I sculpt it? Can I do just a head? Someone told me even a tree is
forbidden because of "Asheirah" - is that true?
(b) I may be asked to draw models without clothing. Is this permitted? Is there a difference between male and female models?
Thank you!
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These Halachos are discussed in the Kitzur Shulchan Oruch, Siman 168. It
is not permitted to draw the stars, sun, or moon, in a realistic fashion.
Also, a realistic drawing of the full human form or face is not
permitted. However, a side partial view of the face is allowed. There is
no prohibition on drawing trees. The same applies to sculpting.
This is certainly not a situation that a Bas Yisroel should allow herself
to be placed into. If there are extenuating circumstances forcing you to
take such a course, you would need to consult with a rav who knows you
well and can best help you navigate your way out of, or through, the
situation.
Take care,
Rabbi Aaron Tendler
