Face Painting - An Introduction

Face Painting - An Introduction

Body painting is a common form of application of colours, drawing, and painting of pictures on human body. It is an art in which, the human body is used as a medium for paint. There are different reasons for body painting, and a type of body painting is face painting. Face painting is the artistic application of colours, drawings, and paints on face. Face painters and artist use paints to decorate their faces, to show their feelings, or desires through painting on their faces. This is done using the water based cosmetic paints, and it has become a very common activity for different parties, celebrations, and events.

For many centuries, people have used face painting for different purposes including military, religious, and hunting. The activity and art became popular when in 1960s many women started painting flags, or symbols on their cheeks for promoting peace during different anti-war protests. We can say that the use of make up on face for decorating and adding colour is also closely related to this art.

Face print is also used in different profession. For example at a circus, it is a very important part of the costume. The clowns and actors paint their faces smiley, or like different characters to entertain. The activity of using face-painting for entertainment is very common in Europe, and it can be seen at different fairs, and open-air markets for attracting children, and adolescents.

Face picture is taken as a part of an outfit when it comes to parties, and celebrations. It is a very common activity at a festival or a children party where the children get their faces painted like their favourite characters. The art makes them feel like a real cat, fairy, prate, clown, dog, or any other character that they want to be.

Popular face-painting ideas, and designs among the youngsters that they use for birthday parties, Halloween, or themed parties are tiger, clown, super hero like spider-man, Dalmatian dog, cat, fairy pirate, etc. There are different types of face picture designs, and ideas, and all depends on their use. The main purpose is however to attract, and get attention of the people.

It is used as a cosmetic for dramas, acts, plays, etc especially if someone is wearing an animal costume. The painting on the face makes the person look like the actual animal, and makes him/her feel like a real animal character. Sometimes a part of the face is painted, and sometimes the complete face, neck, and other parts of the body are painted.

The use of face work of art can be seen in different sports events when people paint the flags of their favourite countries, or symbols showing the team they are supporting. Painting a country flag shows the patriotism of the person while sometimes it shows the loyalty, and support of the person towards a specific team. Soldiers also use face painting, camouflage technique is a common example. Other professions that use face picture are wrestling and circus where they draw different symbols to convey different messages.

Explore Simple Face Painting Ideas - Have Fun With Your Family

Explore Simple Face Painting Ideas

Do you want great memories of your children dressing up for Halloween? This year, explore simple face painting ideas with your youngster. You can build a lifetime of family memories and your skills can evolve and grow with your child, year after year. The designs can start simple with cute cheek art and become dramatic full face patterns as they grow up. It never gets old!

Face painting need not be complicated. There are techniques using basic lines and shapes to create fun pictures for your child. These techniques are as simple as a couple of lines that feather away from the eyes for a fairy look or coloring in the area around the eye for a pirate's 'eye patch'. Paint basic block colors for the American Flag or your favorite football team.

Other simple face painting ideas are drawing the pictures on other parts of the body to enhance a costume's effect. Snakes slithering up the arm, 'jewelry' painted on the neck or wrist, or even roses and flowers draped over the shoulders. Paint the top of the hands with a rose, flowers or maybe a kite.

Some other designs that are popular every year are animal faces. Puppies, kittens, bunnies, tigers and butterflies are favorite patterns that never get old. Super hero masks are another timeless favorite idea. Just paint the super hero's mask on your child's face and they can become a crime fighter.

Coloring books are a great place to look for new ideas. Study the pictures and you can see how elementary the lines and shapes are. You can use those as a guide for your art work. There are many cartoon characters that have simple shapes.

Other face painting techniques include basic shapes like triangles or pyramids. A ghost can be painted by drawing a basic white triangle with wavy lines. Fill it in with paint, dot the eyes and a finish with a smile. Candy corn is another triangle shape. Jack-o-lanterns are orange ovals with small black triangles for eyes. Just add a toothy grin.

Learning how to paint many of these simple face painting ideas can be accomplished in a few minutes at home. Everyone in your family can sport a little face paint and join in on the fun at Halloween, birthday parties or any other appropriate events.

Fun Crafts for your Sports Tailgate Party

Fun Crafts for your Sports Tailgate Party

If you like having tailgate parties, then you will definitely want to include some themed crafts for your next excursion. Tailgate parties are great because you get to be surrounded by people who like the same sport and team as you. You can talk about the different players and know that people care about what you're saying. Tailgates are also great because they largely focus on food. People usually barbecue and have other foods at these parties. Then, afterward, you can go to the game and further enjoy your day. If you are planning a tailgate party or going to someone else's, then you can use crafts to make the occasion even more fun.

A great tailgate craft is the food. Some people buy premade food to bring to the party. While that's nice, it's better to make something by hand. You could make various dips for people who like to snack. You could also cook and season the barbecued meat, like ribs, chicken, hot dogs, and burgers. Go all out with the food since that's one of the biggest things that draw people to a tailgate party.

Another craft that are prevalent at tailgate parties is the face and body paint. After all, you are on your way to a sports game. People who are really into that particular sports team will like to paint their faces or bodies in a way that supports the team. That usually means painting yourself in the official colors of the sports team.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino takes a common sense approach to planning and organizing events, celebrations and holiday parties with unique ideas for tailgate party supplies and fun tailgate party games. She explains proper etiquette and living a healthy life while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. The Party Supplies Hut has lots of party ideas with hundreds of free holiday printable games and free birthday party activities. Over 100 adorable Themes including tailgate Party Supplies to fit your birthday celebration, holiday event, or "just because" parties. Party themes include cartoon characters, sports, movie, TV shows, luau, western, holidays, and unique crazy fun theme ideas.

Body Painting Promo Girls

Body Painting Promo Girls

Major Beverage Manufacturers are getting creative and are body painting attractive promo girls to boost their sales. Painting their brand's logo on a sexy promo girls body has been boosting their brand's image like no other marketing tool ever used.

Miller lite Girls are getting their bodies painted and getting more attention for the Miller lite brand than ever before. Have you happened to see how beautiful a girl looks after she has had her body painted?

Body Painting an attractive promo girl with a hot body is able to stand out among all the advertising noise in the market place. Marketing companies are getting creative by painting their logos on a girls breast to grab the attention of the beverage manufacturers targeted audience.

Beverage Manufacturers have to pocket out $1000 minimum to get a great body paint artist to paint their promo girls. I had 2 Miller lite girls at Dinah shores in Palm Springs and they had their bodies painted to resemble a Miller lite body. The art work was amazing and not to mention the girls bodies really made the body paint artist look really good.

The Miller lite promo girls received $300 per hour for this one weekend event. I have since seen many companies use hot body painted models to gain the attention of their consumers whether at a car show, trade show or a new club grand opening.

These Beverage manufacturers are budgeting millions of dollars towards this type of advertising.

They see the return on investment as an unmeasurable success. I did a casting in Hollywood for 4 girls to get their bodies painted for a major liquor and I had over 200 girls show up. The amount of beautiful girls in Hollywood that wanted to have their bodies painted was astounding. I even had girls that wanted to get their bodies painted for free.

If you would like the opportunity to have your body painted for a major liquor company and make up to $300 per hour, you must have a great body and be willing to expose your body to a crowd or people.

World Cup 2010 Face Painting Ideas

World Cup 2010 Face Painting Ideas

Face painting is one of the ways with which people express their feelings towards something they love and adore. Historically, it was used by warrior tribes as a means to express their anger and frustration. Today it has gotten a lighter and more pleasant side to it. It is considered an enjoyable activity at festivals, sports events and parties. It is an effortless way of entertainment even at home, just to break the tediousness. Even adolescents love to be a part of it, let alone the kids. Face painting has become more of an art today and there are many face painting designs which one can learn, if he/she wants to enjoy this activity.

The recent trend sees face painting as continuously growing among the passionate fans at various sports events. Be it cricket, soccer, tennis, car racing or golf, fans have always found means to express themselves outrageously; face and body painting being the most common and all time favourites. In order to show support for their teams, people dress audaciously and wear bright colours on their faces. This sort of consumer behaviour has in a way turned out beneficial for the marketers as well who do their branding through these teams.

Sports like football, cricket and tennis are followed fanatically in many regions across the world.
The vigour and the zeal that these teams and their followers bring together during a period of 3-4 hours is just amazing. Fans wear national colours, flags and the names of their favourite players on their faces. At such events face painters are hired. This has also been an attraction for the sports media who can use photographs and videos to support their news updates and programs.

World cups are the most awaited events throughout the year for sports lovers. They come up with all the crazy face painting ideas.

1. Flags
It is definitely about your national pride. Wearing the flag of your country during a world cup match is a true reflection of patriotism. This is one of the most common ways to demonstrate your love and support for your country.

2. Costume colours and country names
Spray your hair and paint your faces with the custom team colors to show your spirit. You can also wear official logos on your faces.

3. Favourite players
You can draw your favourite player on one side of your face and his/her name on the other side to show your fondness.

4. Wear props and accessories
To augment your face painting, wear hats and other fancy accessories. You can be as creative with it as you want.

5. Use a combination of ideas
You can spray paint official world cup logo on your hair; whilst paint the flag of your country on your face.

6. Face Mask
You can paint the football helmet on your face as a mask.

Face painting is just another means to enliven the world cup celebrations and to show your team the support they need to win. It all depends on your creativity and passion for the game. Use a combination of right design, colours and effects to give it the true feel. Paint your face delicately and with patience; so that you do not end up making fun of yourself.

Body Painting and Air Brushed Body Design

Body Painting and Air Brushed Body Design

Each year during Fantasy Fest this event is held on the waterfront overlooking scenic Key West harbor. Beautiful, sexy, almost naked women, along with many creative and talented air brush design artists come to the city during the week long adult themed costume party that culminates with a huge parade on the Festival ending Saturday night. Everyday during the week, Body Painting Artists can be seen setting up their small studio booths on the streets and in different shops, sidewalk cafes, bars, and painting the sexy, beautiful bodies of women with exotic art designs. Some women get a different air brushed design done everyday and walk the streets showing off their body art as they wait for the big event competition that begins on the Friday evening and is called "The Living Arts Airbrush Body Painting Contest".

Airbrushed Art design is an artistic talent that transforms your everyday skin into a beautifully designed pattern, it can be a living animal, a flower, a vampire, or almost any life form you so desire. The artists use airbrushing to create a design or idea that you bring to them. Any part of your body can be painted and covered with a creative design. Body painting artists are very skilled artists and will cover any parts of your body that you wish, from the top of your head to the tip of your toe. And if you can't make up your mind which part to paint, you can have your entire body air brushed so it completely disguises the real you underneath the art. By using this method of airbrushing, and drawing a design pattern, your body can be entirely transformed into your wildest fantasy design form.

Depending on the art design you choose, the process can take from a several minutes to many hours. The mastery of air brushed art design takes a little time and requires your patience and cooperation with the artist who's turning you into a vampire, a butterfly, a dragon or some other fantastic design.

You may be completely naked and no one will know because your covered up and it looks like you have a costume on. Or you can have a clothing outfit designed and painted on you and it will look as though your dressed. The artist can design a dress, pants, shorts, or any clothing that you wish, even make you look fully dressed or have a bikini outfit on, any outfit you can imagine. The artists make it look so real it does actually seem like you have clothes on...it's so lifelike looking!

Not all airbrushed body art means having to get completely naked and be painted in front of a group of people. You can do it in a private setting if your shy, or you can let others watch your transformation. Any portion of your skin can be painted into a beautiful, sexy airbrushed art design. Many women just appreciate the art and have designs done on parts of their body to show off or to be kept private for only certain eyes to see. Whatever the case may be, there really is not a limit to what a person can have painted. A butterfly, a Dragon, a star pattern, or a floral display, anything you may choose can be designed and painted by the air brush artist.

Your airbrushed design will typically last for a day and can easily be removed. Because it isn't permanent, you have the option to become whatever or whoever your imagination desires. The only thing holding you back from being doing it is your wildest imagination and choosing the design of what or who you want to be!

Western Painting - Body Painting - A Contemporary Yet Ancient Style of Being a Canvas

Body Painting - The Intricacies

The origin of body painting is unknown, but its use has been widespread - sometimes as an art form, sometimes as a part of tradition, and the other times, as a necessity. The evidence of body painting is found in ancient practices across various cultures and remains a popular fashion statement in the present times. There is no set style or technique for body painting. It can be a localized design or a fuller one, covering the entire body in some cases. The color pigments used can be natural or synthetic. Similarly, it can be a work of an expert or an amateurish hand of a novice. However, unlike permanent tattoos, body paints are temporary or semi-permanent in nature.

The Geographical Spread
Painting the body was prevalent in ancient Egyptian civilization, where Pharaohs and high-class individuals painted their faces in red ochre & white pigments, and eyes in kohl. The Himba group of Namibia also generously uses red ochre. These people paint their entire bodies in the uniform pigment, as a traditional practice. In India, body painting is an elaborate work of expertise, which requires training and a lot of experience. One of the best examples of this art is the make-up of Kathakali dancers that involves the use of white, red, black, and yellow colors against a base of bottle green color, on face.

The use of 'henna,' a natural plant extract, is very popular among the Indian women across the country and is again, done by trained experts. Henna is used for decorating the hands and feet in beautiful, complex designs. Native Americans use streaks, concentric circles, and other patterns of colors, which include red, white, yellow, blue, and black. The indigenous Yolngu people of Australia use detailed and painstaking technique to embellish their bodies. It is an inspiration for many other art forms and a job that only the experts can do.

Painted faces have been a trademark of comedians and mimics, throughout the history of performing arts. Body painting has found as much use in military operations, as in local communities. Facial colors, particularly in nature tones are heavily employed as camouflage by almost all armies in the world. Now days, this art has become a fad, especially among the youth and is treated more as an avant-garde fashion accessory, rather than as a religious belief. Across the US and Europe, body painting is used in theatre, cinema, fashion, carnivals, and body painting festivals. Despite facing criticism and rejection from various corners, this art continued to grow and is still evolving!

Great Halloween Escapade for Young and Old

Great Halloween Escapade for Young and Old

Halloween is traditionally commemorated by almost all people across the globe. Everyone is looking forward for this once a year celebration. It's a celebration not only for kids but for all ages. When October starts, people are busy conceptualizing how they will celebrate Halloween. They are planning for another great Halloween escapade. As the Halloween approaches, kids are excitedly counting the days for another round of trick or treat parade. Some are taking time to fill their places with different Halloween decorations. Some even send postcards with Halloween designs to their friends and loved ones from afar. Some dress up for the occasion.

Halloween festivity is celebrated in thousands of ways regardless what location you are in the globe. For those brave souls, one of the places where they enjoy and celebrate their Halloween escapade is at the cemetery. Everybody knows that cemeteries are mythically known as haunted places. In some countries, people traditionally visit their departed loved ones as early as the eve of November first. Some even stay the whole night. Apart from commemorating the dead, cemeteries made the stay of the visitors more enjoyable, by sponsoring Halloween related activities. There are people roaming around the place wearing some disguise mask that look creepy and scary. Some look like werewolves, vampires, witches, while some look like wizards and mythical monsters. Imagine yourself seeing Frankenstein, Dracula, The Mummy and Scarecrow, surely you will shout out loud. They are parading within the area and have campfire at the end of the parade doing some spooky rituals. The evening can be scary yet enjoyable. And with so many people around, you might even forget that you are in a cemetery.

While there are people enjoying the Halloween escapade in the cemetery, in some places, people spend this eve in a beach. Most people on the beach are having campfire with their body painted with different designs themed to the festivity. These are normally done by grownups. They enjoy partying over some cocktail drinks while celebrating the Halloween. Usually, resort owners sponsor this type of activity to attract customers because Halloween is considered off-peak season. The party normally ends up awarding the best body painting.

An amazing Halloween escapade will never be complete without something to eat. To beef up the celebration there are foods one can prepare themed to the holiday. The choice of foods are not just invented for nothing, these are related to Halloween. Some common foods associated with the festivity are candy apples; candy corn; caramel apples; pumpkin; pumpkin pie; roasted sweet corn; roasted pumpkin seeds; cakes with different Halloween designs; and other novelty candies with different shapes like creepy creatures, skulls, and a lot more. These are of course being enjoyed and prepared especially for kids and kids at heart.

You may also initiate your own idea of a Halloween escapade for you and your friends. There are various sites in the internet where you can source unique ideas making this once a year tradition worth waiting for.

For Women Over 50 - Top 5 Ways to Feel Sexy and Sensual Again, Even If You're Married

Top 5 Ways to Feel Sexy and Sensual Again, Even If You're Married

Well, it happens to all of us! We get into a rut, and this culminates into complacency and then discontent. Over time, we tend to neglect ourselves: our appearance and even our attitude suffers.

This is the time our total self-image needs patched and polished.

If not, then you're on the path to heartache. Passion and desire are probably a fading memory. You just don't feel sexy anymore...the mystery and anticipation is gone.

Here are 5 ways to unleash that sensual woman within...to start feeling sexy again.

1. IDENTITY

Who are you? What is your Lifestyle-Look? If you don't have one, then think about how to dress to fit your personality and current lifestyle(not 20 yrs. ago.) Look at your stockpile of clothes and accessories. You may need to 'detox your closet.' If you go shopping don't be hypnotized by bargains...be sure you only choose the items that fit your persona and your lifestyle.

Bliss Note: Let your clothing make a statement about the real, sensual YOU!

2. YOUR FACIAL PORTRAIT

Normally, a woman's first step to rev-up appearance is a trip to the beauty bar to load up on cosmetics. You know, the latest colors...newest age defying creams...and layer on layer of makeup techniques for looking younger. But not so fast! Work with a beauty consultant to determine your signature look. You may only want to change your shade of lipstick. Moisturizer is a must / find one that is right for you skin-type.

Bliss Note: You MUST be committed to a daily facial regimen! No slackers allowed!

3. DREAMS

What do you secretly want to do? Study painting? Or do you love reading and would like to join a 'reader's club' that has bi-monthly meetings and socials? None in your area? Then create your own group. Or, go dancing...travel...volunteer. Chase that rainbow. Now's the time / no excuses.

Bliss Note: When there are no more dreams, how can there be passion and desire? NOT.

4. SEDUCE YOURSELF

Immerse yourself in full body sensuality: set aside time for soaking in a tub scented with Bulgarian Rose Essential Oil...known as the 'woman's oil.' Listen to your favorite music as your body and mind drink in the fragrant, luxurious oil. And then, massage liquid drops of almond oil into your warm skin...taking time to follow your body's curves and taking a detour to all the right places.

Bliss Note: Take time to seduce the senses and unleash your sensual side. Learn how to appreciate your magnificence!

5. ROMANCE FOR THE SOUL

Do your crave romance? So romance yourself. That's why we have candles in all shapes and colors, fluted champagne glasses, gold or silver cell phones and handbags like works of art. Light your candles and sip some wine. Even down your daily vitamins with an exquisite champagne glass filled with water. Why not? You're taking good care of yourself...this deserves a toast!

Bliss Note: Women are making The Romance Novel the fastest growing niche in fiction. Isn't it time you lost yourself in romance? Enjoy!

Continue to massage your self-image. And remember, your self-image is comprised of body, attitudeand passion. Self image is not just your clothes, but the total sensual package. When you love yourself in every way, people notice your genuine, magnetic personality.

And you'll glow from the inside-out because now you feel sexy and desirable again...with or without a partner, husband!

Butterfly Face Painting Designs

Butterfly Face Painting Designs

If you are planning to put some paintings on your body then butterfly face painting designs offer one of the excellent choices for you. Butterflies are one of the most attractive figures to choose because of the unlimited choices for its pattern; aside from the beauty it creates with its attractive mixtures of colors.

Moreover, butterfly face painting designs are also very simple to create that even beginners in body painting can do it with ease; using basic color combination to produce unique patterns. Aside from butterflies you can also choose other figures like various animals that include tigers and lions, birds and dragons, cats and dogs, bugs and insects, sharks and fishes, and so much more.

One of the most important things that you must bear in mind when doing body paintings is to blend the figures with the type of person wearing them. To give you some examples, when creating the art for children, it is best to choose designs that appeal to them like their favourite animated cartoon characters. For boys, they would love to wear various designs of cars, robots, pirates, and other stuffs for boys. On the other hand, girls would prefer to wear something that exude beauty like flowers and fairies, rainbows and butterfly face painting designs.

Additionally, the pattern should also be based on what the person intents to convey. If the individual is wearing body paintings to scare people then you can choose monsters and other Halloween figures; if they are wearing the paintings on their faces to add beauty then you may choose flower, birds and animal designs.

Regardless of what pattern to choose, it is essential to create designs that are well suited to the type of personality of the person wearing them; as well as choose designs that make them very comfortable in placing them on their face. Some people may feel uncomfortable in certain patterns that they will use it for only few minutes and eventually erase them; while people who are very proud and comfortable with the patterns on their faces wear them for much longer time.

Hence, before you start creating paints on faces, it is imperative to ask first the person on what design to use that will make them very comfortable. In most cases, men and women vary on their choices because men want something masculine; while women tends to choose something that radiates beauty like butterfly face painting designs.

Next, A Step-by-Step Guide to Easy and Popular Cheek Art Designs. Features Over 50 Step-by-Step Designs Including the Butterfly Face Painting with Full Color Photographs.

The Beauty of Body Paint Art

The Beauty of Body Paint Art

Since the beginning of time, humans have always had the desire to create art. Through this desire body painting was born, making the human body the first canvass. The history of this craft stretches so far back that historians consider it to be the earliest form of art. Compared to other types of body art like tattoos or piercing, this is impermanent. It lasts only for a few hours at most.

During the ancient times, tribes would often use this during celebrations and important ceremonies. Each color had its own corresponding meaning. Chieftains and warriors commonly had their own styles to indicate their status in the tribe. Around the 12th century, a new kind of body painting known as the Mehendi became popular. The Mehendi is an extremely old ritual that originated from Egypt. It is the art of using henna to paint the body. This type of dye usually lasts a little longer, about a 1-2 weeks before fading. Natives of South America also had their own methods of ornamenting their bodies. They would use wet charcoal also known as huito. Like henna, huito is also semi-permanent lasting for a few weeks.

In today's modern era, this has become a way of self-expression. This has been spurred on by the liberality of modern society. If before nudity was deemed by society as inappropriate and improper, now it is something to be flaunted. In the guise of self-expression and the practice of human freedom, this has become a means of grabbing the public's attention. This is especially effective during protests and rallies. Instead of bringing placards and sign boards, the protesters would instead paint on themselves.

The art of body painting can morph a human being into a beautiful work of art. It can make a statement that words alone cannot express, create a more appealing presentation, and add meaning and significance to an important occasion. It is used not only for the living, but also to preserve the dead. Truly it has attained world wide significance that will last till the end of time.

Cindy Lee is an avid face painter and enthusiast. Her website provides free resources, tips and advice on how to learn face painting easily and quickly. You can learn more about Body Paint Art at FacePaintingCenter.com

Body Painting

Body Painting - A Look at the Top 6 Festivals in the World

Dragonmen, Alien Mermaids, Fantastic Fire Dancers, Barebacked Santas, and even a Painted Labrador Retriever; you can see all these and more at the fantastic body painting festivals now occurring annually around the world.

There is a wide range of body painting festivals today. All include painted bodies, of course, and all include some kind of competitions; however there is a quite a range of skills and size among the different festivals, and some are more 'family friendly' than others.

Here's a quick look at the top 6 body painting festivals, where they happen and what you can expect to find there:

1. The World Body Painting Festival

This festival includes some of the most stunning professional body painting to be seen in the world today. A 3 day program includes dance, music and fireworks displays, as well as many competitions. Many of the body paintings here should fall under the category of 'fine art' with some of the dancers body paintings simply defying belief. A very large event and certainly worth traveling for.

Where: Seeboden, Austria
Duration: Three days
Events Include: World Championships in 3 categories; night contest for UV effects, Special Effects awards; classes and workshops; BodyCircus (fantasy ball); music and dance performances; an international photo contest; and a huge fireworks show.
Artistic Range: One of the very best, with stunning range of styles and surprising themes.
Family Friendliness: Not clear, but it is in Europe, so not likely to ban under 18. However this body painting festival does not advertise itself as family friendly, as some others do.

2. The Canadian Body Painting Festival

This is another body painting festival that showcases simply stunning artists and finished work. The quality of the art here is similar to that seen at the World Body Painting Festival. The Festival is themed from year to year, with the recent theme being "It's A Jungle Out There." Also includes the Canadian Body Painting Championships.

Where: Nanaimo, British Columbia
Duration: Two days
Events Include: Competitions in overall body painting, brush and sponge, and airbrush; includes the Canadian body painting Championships
Artistic Range: Most stunning, and one of the best overall. Very life-like and fantastic double-take images.
Family Friendliness: Not stated - would be worth making a call first.

3. The International Body Painting Festival

This festival takes place in Mainz, a city with over two thousand years of history. It is located on the river Rhine, has strong Celtic roots and may have been founded by the Romans as early as 13 BC. One can imagine that body painting has a long history here, if you remember the Celtic tradition of painting their bodies before going into battle. Once again, the artistic ability and range is stunning at this International festival.

Where: Mainz, Germany
Duration: Weekend festival
Events Include: Competitions include special effects and face painting
Artistic Range: Very stunning; high artistic skill.
Family Friendliness: Not known but again, it's in Europe. I would call ahead.

4. Welsh International Body Painting Festival
This festival is a bit younger and less established than the top 3, although it has some impressive artwork considering that they are just getting started. Also the atmosphere is more 'fun' orinted, less 'high art' and family participation is strongly encouraged. A good festival to consider if you want to make it a family outing and see some amazing work in the process.
Where: Wales (of course)
Duration: Two days
Events Include: Hands on demonstrations; horror specialists and flower specialists
Artistic Range: High, and impressive for a smaller sized event; not as subtle or creative as some of the others
Family Friendliness: Very good; in fact they encourage families and camping, with an 'all ages' atmosphere and events designed for younger participants

5. The UK Body Painting Festival

This festival showcases some of the least impressive - although most amusing - body painting, although it should be said that it is not presented as a stuffy 'high art' affair, but more a circus or county fair type outing for the entire family. Fun, relaxed and un-selfconscious atmosphere allows for some of the more surprising and purely 'fun' body art to be seen. If you're not a supermodel and would like to get your body painted without worrying about snide comments, this might be a good option for you.

Where: Ashford, UK
Duration: Two days
Events Include: Family-oriented face painting, body painting competitions for professional and amateur categories, craft fair, children's activities, workshops, and a 'bouncy castle.'
Artistic Range: Fair; more of a family outing with a lots to do than a showcase of spectacular art.
Family Friendliness: Very high; advertised as family event. Lowest cost of all the body painting festivals - comparable to a movie ticket.

6. The US Bodypainting Festival (or New Mexico Body Painting Festival/US Bodypainting Competition)

There is definitely some impressive body painting to be seen at this festival, and a lot of creative innovation with hair and unusual designs that you won't see anywhere else. One example that springs to mind is a model dressed in racecar theme with red, white and blue hair sprayed out behind her as though flying in the wind. Also, if you're in the US this festival obviously doesn't require a plane ticket. However this is not a family outing, as it explicitly bans anyone under 18.

Where: Alberquerque, New Mexico
Duration: Three days
Events Include: Demonstrations, workshops, competitions in body painting
Artistic Range: Good to poor - there is a mix of very impressive artistic works and things better left unpainted here; although it's all 'interesting.'
Family Friendliness: Not at all. We are in the US remember; no one under 18 allowed.

So that's my brief overview of the top 6 body painting festivals in the world. Would you like to take a vacation this year that's not your ordinary 'hum-drum' trip? Pick one of these festivals and you can pack light (you know, you could just bring a can of paint and a paintbrush for evening wear)!

Free Face Painting Ideas

Free Face Painting Ideas

Here are some excellent free face painting ideas that will make you a smash hit at your next party or event!

When face painting, don’t stop with the face, include body painting also. This is always a hit. Kids go crazy for body painting. This is great to do because it makes the kids feel like they are wearing a costume and they really have fun with the character that they have been painted as. Whether it be a king or a witch, this idea is a “no fail” when it comes to pleasing youngsters. And don’t worry about the time this may take. Just keep it simple, short, and sweet and it’s a snap!

Another of the free face painting ideas is for you to try mixing and using makeup with your face painting. Taking some cosmetic makeup and combining it with face painting is an awesome idea. You can use blush to create rosy cheeks on a princess or eye liner pencil to create whiskers on a cat. Using makeup creatively and in combination with face painting can save you time and effort. Beginners may also find this easier than using paint on certain designs. Simply test out and experiment with different cosmetics to find what works best for you.

An entirely new and incredible dimension to add to your face painting routine that has been tried and tested is the use of stick-on-jewels. What’s great about stick-on-jewels is that they are simple and incredibly effective. Kids love them and it escalates the look of any face painting from amateur to pro. They are also very simple to use. Just remove the paper backing and apply to the desired area. This is one of the best and most effective of the free face painting ideas.

Try to use costumes with your face painting for an incredible combination that delights every time! Finding simple costumes is the key to this favorite of all the free face painting ideas. You don’t have to go all out and spend a lot of money. That’s not necessary at all.

Some costume ideas:

• A simple black cape for a vampire.

• A paper crown for a king

• Paper bunny ears for a rabbit

• A paper or plastic tiara for a princess

• Stripes painted on t-shirts to look like a zebra or tiger

• Or an old sock or stocking stuffed with tissues, magazine pages, or newspaper to look like a tail for a monkey, lion, or tiger.

And the last of the free face painting ideas is for you to use good old glitter! It’s simple, cheap, and incredibly easy. You can find glitter gel, glitter powders, and glitter dust that all work well (you just need to decide which one works best for you). Just as the stick-on-jewelry can improve the look of your face painting, glitter can make your painting look highly professional.

There are endless free face painting ideas, you just need to be creative, use your imagination, and most importantly, have fun and enjoy your art!

Personalized Wall Art For Nurseries

Breast Painting - Mouse

As your baby develops, they begin to take notice of all of their wonderful surroundings. As adults, we often forget what it is like to look at something as if it were new. Even art, no matter how original the piece, strikes a seeming similarity to our lives. That is why introducing your children to the vast world of art from the very beginning will be a springboard for future discoveries and creativity. And adding wall art to your child's nursery is the perfect addition to every baby's room. The whimsical designs will bring serenity and excitement to your baby's new space and to their lives. What could possibly be better? These works of art can be personalized with baby's name or a loving message to make the paintings perfect and unique.

"Under the Big Top" Canvas Wall Art - The circus has to be one of the most fascinating places for a child. All animals, big and small, wild and domesticated are under one tent for them to observe and fall in love with. "Under the Big Top" shows a fanciful world with animals as the audience and monkeys on the flying trapeze. This piece is certainly something to be loved and adored for ages. You can personalize your artwork with an initial that would be displayed on the costume of the elephant or with a short name of up to five letters. All of Oopsy Daisy's art is created with a lacquered finish that enables your child to touch and investigate the world painted before them.

"Balloon Adventurer" Canvas Wall Art - Hot air balloons are a constant attraction to adults and kids alike. In this scene your child will watch, over and over, father pig and mother mouse waving goodbye to their bunny and dog children, as they take a ride in the glorious hot air balloon over their sweet village. This work was created by artist Alison Jay and can become an original piece by having your child's name hand painted onto the center of the balloon. These particular paintings also donate a portion of their sales to national children's charities, so you can already begin to teach your child the importance of giving.

Vintage White Rabbit Canvas Wall Hanging - This wall heart brings the classic tale of "Alice in Wonderland" right into your children's room. The infamous White Rabbit is seen carrying a scroll while trumpeting a proud tune. This wall hanging is created by Twinkabella and offers a sophisticated look as it hangs from a wooden dowel with a ribbon and trimmed in a matching fabric with hand painted playing cards. On the White Rabbit's scroll is where you can make this art your very own by adding your child's full name or message to the piece.

Cora Lee is the owner of BlissLiving, widely known for a huge selection of Kid's Art including Oopsy Daisy Art, custom mother's jewelry, designer diaper bags, and exclusive baby gifts. For additional tips and ideas and all the products above, visit http://www.BlissLiving.com. BlissLiving.com has been featured in US Weekly, People Magazine's Celebrity Babies Blog, and Pregnancy Magazine, and has been listed as one of the highest rated sites by the Better Business Bureau, with double AA ratings, for five years in a row.

World Cup 2010 Body Paint

World Cup 2010 Body Paint

The 2010 World Cup started last June 11 2010 and will end July 11 2010 in South Africa. This is the first time that the tournament will be held in an African Nation. The FIFA World Cup is the sport that is most watched internationally. The soccer tournament is the most significant sporting gathering not only because of their well skilled popular team or country players, but also because of each National Team's hot female beauties that took part in the current 2010 body paint.

The beautiful hot female beauties that took part in the current soccer games 2010 body paint used impressive art as way of body make up. The hot female beauties have their body only painted while exposing themselves in the World Cup 2010. These hot female beauties with their bodies only painted have contributed much to the success of the worlds most prestigious and sought football tournament or the FIFA.

The World Cup 2010 work of art on the sexy female models features sexy outfits that quite resemble the different jerseys of the FIFA soccer tournament 2010 players depending on the country they represent. Some soccer tournament 2010 body paint features sexy swim suits underneath the skimpy FIFA soccer games 2010 jerseys. The way that the jerseys are painted in each of the body of the hot female beauties is an artistic feat that is out of this world.

The soccer finals 2010 body paint is truly artistic and something to look forward to when watching the FIFA soccer games 2010 aside from its breath taking FIFA matches. There are a couple of artistically impressive grand soccer finals 2010 body arts photographs in the internet which are a sneak peak of what the World Cup 2010 body paint has to offer.