Art-Monkey, Nan Kruzik, was so inspired by drawing our burlesque babes at Dr. Sketchy’s Philly that she decided to do a series of her own. After contacting a few ladies to pose, she was on her way to creating a body of work that recently showed at The Abbaye in the Northern Liberties! Although the show came down a few days back, we’d like to share some of her work here as well as some insight on Nan herself. Enjoy!

Lulu Lounging/Smiling, Oil on canvas, 60” x 40”

Tell us about your work. What inspires you?
I love people. I think people hold so much since we are full of facets… the facets can be seen/read by the eyes, small features, a laugh, a touch etc. When i look at someone that peaks my interest, sometimes I don’t even know why, but it comes out on my paper, canvas, etc.. my work is simple. If i can render someone but so that they truly reveal themselves through the picture – their personality, their essence, the way they may be feeling, etc. — that’s what i hope to accomplish. Lots of people can recreate a scene or a likeness. My goal is to capture a bit of their soul.

We hear that we at Dr. Sketchy’s inspired your burlesque girl series. Is that true? If so, could you elaborate on what triggered the inspiration?
Yes, that’s true! I found out about the sketch sessions through Fleisher and Nick and I spent a “date night” at one. That’s when it happened. I knew that alternative models were out there…. I guess I just never thought I’d have the chance to use them. In a way going to the Sketchy’s sessions broke down that barrier for me. I love the idea of an alternative “model” without thinking about it too much. One session and I was addicted!

Where can we see the work? How long will it be up?
It’s at the Abbaye at 3rd and Fairmount. Sorry for the late notice but it started on Friday, 02/06 and will come down on Thursday, 03/05. My thanks to Meghan, Marc, Ryan, Flip and everyone there!

Any favorite local burlesque girls?
Lulu Lollipop, of course! Cherry Bomb is also tops!

Are there some that you are interested in drawing that haven’t sat for you yet?
I enjoy a lot of the looks and one gal I saw perform was Randi Warhol. She would be a fun spirit to draw and paint.

Favorite song, color, food, cocktail.
Hmmm, one of my favorite songs is “Home” by Depeche Mode. Lovecats and Pictures of You (The Cure) are also goodies… ah there’s too many! My favorite color is GREEN. I adore it. I love me some french fries (a little too much) and a good alternative cheesesteak (not that i don’t love the Philly ones either- i take whiz, please…) but one with interesting cheeses and sauces that make me smile. My fave cocktail is a yummy beer. My top choices are Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier and Maredsous 8.

If you could choose any Dr. Sketchy’s Philly theme for the future, what would it be? Why?
Maybe one full of fun movie stills or a sci-fi theme like a scene out of a throw-back to start trek. The stills would be fun to see how creative the gals/guys would be and maybe the sci-fi because i am a bit of a trekkie. mmmm Jean-Luc Picard haha.

Lulu Lollipop with boa in profile, Pencil on paper, 10” x 16 ½”

Any other upcoming shows?
Unfortunately, no. I just have to keep trying!!

Who are your idols?
My idols are Alice Neel, Cole Young and anyone who follows their dreams.

Pet peeve?
Cheaters.

If you had a slogan, what would it be?
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

During your burlesque girl sittings, anything of interest happen that you’d like to share? Anything memorable, comical, or strange about the experience? We want dirt, damn it!
Poor Cherry Bomb… I booked her the day after my birthday. I didn’t think I would be an absolute glutton the night before… but i was. Haha, she was a trooper. I was kind of indecisive on poses and things but Nick pulled me through it and i got some good work in!

Lulu Lollipop – Deco Portrait, Oil on canvas, 11” x 14”

Favorite local bar / restaurant? (for stalking purposes – I kid, I kid!)
Of course, The Abbaye is my favorite in the neighborhood. We spend a lot of time there and the people are great and so I’m psyched i was able to showcase Lulu there. My other fave bar in the city is the Las Vegas Lounge. I can’t pass up the tuna burger at North Third…yum!

Anything else you’d like to add?
It’s been great getting to meet new people all while getting back in the game of live model sessions. I tend to keep to myself with respect to my art and Dr. Sketchy’s and the welcoming and fun atmosphere has allowed me to be a part of a unique community. I love it. I’d also like to thank Lulu. AND you, Nicola! You keep us coming back for more dames, drawing and fun!!