Face Painting has been used for artistic expression since ancient times. The art of transforming ourselves with make-up and masks is a universal phenomenon. Before we sought to vent our artistic impulse on a cave wall, we painted on our faces and bodies. Indians of the Amazon have said that in this power to change ourselves we demonstrate our humanity and set ourselves apart from the world of the animals.
Face Painting has also been used for many other reasons- for hunting, religious reasons, and military reasons (mainly as a method of camouflaging). The reason we use to transform ourselves may be varied –we may choose to do so as a part of a ritual or we may do so to mark our status (as is the case with some aboriginal tribes), but the language of art will remain the same.
Tribal Face Painting
Tribal Societies, who follow the custom of face painting, choose the colors according to the available raw materials. During the early periods, only primary and locally available colors like red, blue, yellow or white would be used. Effect would be added by sprinkling dust or soft bird feathers.
Native American Face Painting
Face painting is an important tradition among the native Americans. It is much more than just a beautifying practice. It's a social act of distinction and a cultural heritage. It was done on special occasion to augment one's appearance and power. Each tribe of the Indians has its own and unique way of face painting.
Face Painting in the modern world
In modern times, Face Painting is a common mode of entertainment at fairs, large open-air markets. Children and adult alike folk to face painters to get their face painted in the theme of their choice. Some choose cartoon characters and some choose to get their faces like that of a clown, the choices available is definetly mind boggling.
Modern face painting can be categorized into two section:
- Some Designs include the emblems of favorite sports teams, cartoon characters, and other designs that are 'cute' or otherwise appealing to the young.
- Designs that are associoated with some cause or theme so that painting ones face with those color will indicate solidarity with that cause, usually the outcome of a sporting contest or membership in a group.
Indulgent and enthusiastic parents nowadays , arrange theme parties for their children where their faces are painted according to their choice
Our imagination is boundless, brought to life by the art we create. In transforming ourselves through our art we look back to our deepest origins while reaching forward to our highest aspirations.
Face Painting in the modern world
In modern times, Face Painting is a common mode of entertainment at fairs, large open-air markets. Children and adult alike folk to face painters to get their face painted in the theme of their choice. Some choose cartoon characters and some choose to get their faces like that of a clown, the choices available is definetly mind boggling.
Modern face painting can be categorized into two section:
- Some Designs include the emblems of favorite sports teams, cartoon characters, and other designs that are 'cute' or otherwise appealing to the young.
- Designs that are associoated with some cause or theme so that painting ones face with those color will indicate solidarity with that cause, usually the outcome of a sporting contest or membership in a group.
Indulgent and enthusiastic parents nowadays , arrange theme parties for their children where their faces are painted according to their choice
Our imagination is boundless, brought to life by the art we create. In transforming ourselves through our art we look back to our deepest origins while reaching forward to our highest aspirations.
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