For the past three years, Natural Pursuits has hosted in-person photoshoots that have brought our online content to life. Over this time, we’ve welcomed many return guests, whose faces have become familiar to our community. Now, it’s time to shine a spotlight on these regular attendees, and today, we’re excited to get to know Jake a little better.
Jake has been busy performing in the cabaret scene, with an upcoming appearance in his significant otherโs show, Soir Noir, at Donโt Tell Mommaโs on October 10th. The show will feature music from the golden era of night clubs. Heโs also preparing for his own solo cabaret, The Second Annual Birthday Show, at the Triad Theatre on November 10th, benefiting the New York City Gay Menโs Chorus, of which he is an active member. Tickets will be available soon.
This interview is accompanied by portraits of Jake taken throughout the years, capturing his presence and involvement in our events.
Attendee Interview
Natural Pursuits (NP): What is your relationship with casual nudity?
Jake Oswell (JO): My introduction to casual nudity began in college. I was looking for ways to make some money as a freshman and applied to be a figure model for the art school. My first gig was a sculpture class where I held the same pose for a combined 12 hours! It was very rewarding emotionally, physically, and financially.
I continued booking gigs in college and during my first few years in the city (I still occasionally pose, but mostly for free now!). Then I stumbled upon Natural Pursuits and knew immediately that I wanted to be part of it any way I could.
NP: Youโve attended our pottery classes and participated in several of our photoshoots. What keeps you coming back to Natural Pursuits events?
JO: I really enjoy the social aspect of the events. Making friends as an adult is challenging; I’ve fostered some great friendships with folks I’ve met at NP events. The social aspect, combined with the thrill of being nude, makes for a super fun time.
I also consider myself an artist and love being involved in the creation of art. The opportunity to create art across many different mediums is available at every event. I have so many gorgeous photos, stickers, Polaroids, and even a small ceramic bowl from the dozens of events I’ve attended. I use the piece I made at the pottery class as a garlic holder in my kitchen!
NP: What are some of your favorite memories from these events?
JO: I have so many fun memories from NP events. I really enjoyed the pottery class; it was my first time at the wheel, and Pete, the instructor, guided us through the process in a fun and easy way, AND I got a piece of homemade (albeit a little wonky) pottery that I use to this day! Another highlight was at an event quite a while ago there was a photographer taking photos with an antique film camera.
I spent a lot of time with him holding and positioning lights while he shot portraits. After a while, he asked me if I’d like to shoot his portrait. I was nervous because he mentioned how expensive the film was, but I gave it a shot. I asked him when I’d find out whether or not the picture turned out okay, and he said he’d let me know. A day or so later, he posted the portrait I had taken of him on his Instagram grid and tagged me as the photographer! The photo came out beautifully, and I was touched.
Attendee Interview (cont.)
NP: In July 2023, you hosted your own Natural Pursuits event. Can you tell me more about that experience? What stood out to you?
JO: Hosting my own event was super fun and rewarding. I was so nervous at first; I hadn’t hosted many people at my apartment, let alone a group of nudists and nudity enthusiasts. Once folks started showing up, I was at ease and in my element.
Most events are not in Manhattan, so I wasn’t sure if people would want to travel all the up to my apartment in Inwood, but it was actually very well attended (more uptown events, please!). We had one fantastic photographer there who captured some super-dynamic shots involving Mylar. We also explored the several coffee table books I have and talked about our favorite visual artists.
If you are considering hosting your own event, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s all BYOB, so you don’t even need to provide snacks/drinks!
NP: Youโve mentioned meeting people at our events who have become good friends. Could you share more about those connections?
It’s pretty easy, in my opinion, to make friends with folks who share common interests. Anyone you meet at an NP event will share your appreciation for social nudity and that is a great ice breaker. I’ve met several people over the dozens of events I’ve attended who I really vibe with. It’s almost like you skip the beginning, sometimes awkward, part of a new friendship when everyone is nude.
I’ve met folks in my neighborhood who I now carpool with, I’ve met artists who I’ve since modeled for, I’ve met folks who I’ve eventually hooked up with, and I’ve met a few people who have become my close friends. You never know who you might meet at a NP event and that is part of the fun!
NP: What advice would you give to someone who is on the fence about coming to a Natural Pursuits event?
If you are curious about attending a NP event my best advice is to take the plunge and go for it. I used to get nervous before every event but honestly the folks who attend are extremely friendly and will put you at ease. You could bring a like-minded friend to your first couple events so that you know someone.
It could also be a great bonding experience for you and your partner. I guarantee that you’ll leave your first event with new connections, beautiful pieces of art, and a new outlook. Social nudity is empowering and once you get a taste you’ll want to sign up for every event!
Follow Jake
Instagram: @ModelMermaid
Twitter: @GayRobot420
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