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Aside from seeming obviously inappropriate for a good Jewish boy/girl, what are the halachik issues involved in drawing from a nude model? Are there any distinctions with regard to men/women?

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this is not really an answer, but I will take the opportunity to recommend Chaim Potok's novel "My Name Is Asher Lev" about a young chassidic prodigy artist struggling with many related issues. The sequel, "The Gift of Asher Lev" was a major disappointment. – Jeremy Jan 14 '10 at 20:49
yes yes, I've read it. I was going to mention the book in the question itself, but I was not sure how to fit it in, heh heh. I'm in the process of researching this issue myself, so once I gather enough info I'll post an answer if no one beats me to it. – cube Jan 14 '10 at 22:01

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Hirhur--thinking about prohibited sexual things.

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nudity is not necessarily sexual – TRiG Mar 24 at 1:47
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My understanding was that nudity is generally understood to provoke sexual thoughts. – andrewmh20 Mar 24 at 1:56
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I asked my rabbi about this many years ago. He said that if you need the art class to learn your trade, then it's allowed. (men or women doesn't make a difference). If you are taking the art class to get an easy grade, or just as a minor elective for fun, then it is not allowed.

I can also tell you from experience, that sexual thoughts are far far away from your mind, if you are seriously taking the class to learn. Though I did skip the session when two models were posing together.

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