Getting to Grips With Body Painting

Body painting, or body art, is a unique and intricate art form practised by professionals all over the world. In the run up to the 2015 World Body Painting Festival in July, we’ve turned to award-winning body painter and The Iver Academy expert Mona Turnbull to run through the basics of beautiful body painting.

Exfoliate

Dry skin is the enemy of body painters, as it makes it harder to get a smooth, even application. Ask your model to exfoliate their skin at least a day in advance of your session, and get them to follow up with a generous helping of moisturiser on the morning of the job to ensure they are flake-free.

Invest in Good Tools

The body is an extremely large area to cover and regular brushes just won’t cut it. Invest in a set of high quality professional body painting brushes. This will help you get the base completed quicker and will give you more time to focus on the detailing. Illusion brushes, Mehron body brushes and Mark Reid body brushes are all reliable brands that I always have in my kit.

Don’t Forget The Side Profile

When you come to design your body painting, don’t forget to factor in the view from the side. If I’m sketching mine I will always include both sides of the outer and inner arms, both sides of the body and both sides of the outer and inner legs. Whilst painting, I’ll also take time to look at the work from all angles to keep track of my progress.

Keep Your Model Comfortable

Body painting can be a really long process for the model as well as the artist. I keep a silk robe or fleece blanket on hand so my model can stay warm during breaks, and will usually suggest they take a moment to move around and flex their legs whilst I’m not painting them. Drinking lots of water is also vital to make sure you stay hydrated throughout the process.

Remember Nipple Covers

For the nipple area, Latex covers work best as they are less prone to creasing and are easier to paint over. If you’re unable to use nipple covers, get creative. In the past I’ve used Fuller’s earth clay mixed with pigments, jewels and gems, prosthetic silicone pieces, flowers and PVC foam to disguise the area.

Pack Invisible Pants

Invisible knickers or no-VPL pants are perfect for body painting, as the high Nylon content means they won’t go saggy. Occasionally I’ll get a model to wear two pairs to thicken the material and help smooth over any unsightly contours. Don’t forget to continue your design or base colour underneath the knickers too, to avoid any glimpses of skin that would ruin the finished look.

Seal With Setting Spray

I recommend using a sealer spray to set everything in place if you need your body paint to last. Kryolan make a fantastic one, but you’ll need to make sure you use it in a well ventilated area.  Once it is set, don’t forget to take a few photos to add to your portfolio.

Remove Safely With Water

When removing body paint, it’s best to rinse most of the design away with water and a flannel first of all. For any stubborn areas that are left, go in with baby shampoo or vegetable soap in a circular motion. This will help break down the rest of the paint and it should rinse away clean.

Alicia Joy

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