The human body is a beautiful and wonderful machine that has taken countless generations to perfect to what we see today.  There is no better canvas for an artist to show off the talents and thoughts of the day.  There is a price of using this canvas, the image will be fleeting, as true beauty always is.

We are blessed to be alive during an age when taking a picture of art can freeze a moment in time, as that is the only way you will ever see one of these pieces of art.  In the past only those lucky to be nearby could see what can take hours to complete.

What type of Paint can you use?  I am going to stick with the non-airbrush type for now.  The brands that I have used (available in North America) at least are "Ben Nye", "Kryolan", "Mehron" and "Snazaroo".   

For a beginner I find the price point of the Snazaro to be the best, and it can be found in a large number of Art shops around.  I also find it is one of the easier (for a beginner) to work with as it A) Washes off Easily  B) Stays on 'decently' for a water based product.  The truth is, any product that is Safe for the Skin and you can get easily is a great way to start.  To test out if you do enjoy working with the challenges the human body can give.

To paint a body, one in theory has to paint the skin that covers a body.  If you are just starting out as a painter, you need to be aware that some people will have allergic reactions to the products you use.  This is why it is very important that you do two things:

1) Use a medium that is friendly to the skin.  Non-toxic paints specially designed for use on the body are best.  See the previous blog for mention of a couple you can use.

2) Test each model for reactions, but most of all Listen to them if they complain about being itchy or if the skin starts to react with bumps and other reactions.  This is rare and should not be something you are scared of, but be prepared.

If possible always have somewhere nearby to clean the model (be it someone you paid, coherence, begged, or married).  Not everyone will be willing to drive or take the bus home coloured many different colours.