Community Outreach for Kyle Mules

Hello readers, today’s article comes from a face painting mom who has reached out to the community to help her and her son. Kelly Mules posted on our facebook wall about her son and despite sharing it on facebook, I wanted to help them and spread the word more. If you have the time, please find it in your heart to help this brave boy.
The following is from Kelly:

Kyle Face Painted as a TigerLife was good but all that changed in the blink of an eye, Sept. 2010, when my son got a rare disorder called Guillain-Barre-Syndome. He went form being a healthy, active 10 year old boy in the 6th grade to being totally paralyzed fighting for his life unable to even breath on his own in just 12 short hours. We spent months in the hospital. Everything in my life stopped and changed that day and nothing is as it was.

The things I loved most like my Faces Gone Wild, faces painting business, artwork and hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains stopped that day. I wanted to trade places with my son, but that wasn’t an option I was given, so I did what any parent would do for their sick child. I became my sons full time nurse, caregiver, therapist, school teacher, friend and mom over night.
[clear]
Kyle in the hospital with his mom by his side.It has been almost 3 years since my son was diagnosed with GBS. He has gotten stronger and his spirit is so amazing and full of life. He is my hero and there is nothing I wouldn’t do for him. I have got my face painting business back up to speed as much as I can and we are learning how to enjoy life and all it has to offer a all new way…in a wheelchair. I have now made it my life quest to make sure my son enjoys life to it’s fullest by introducing him to adaptive sports and looking for creative ways for him to still enjoy the things he loves.
[clear]
Kyle in his wheelchair by a lake.Transportation is becoming our biggest issue right now. My son is a growing 14 year old boy and I have been lifting him myself in and out of our van for the past 3 years now. He is getting heavier and almost taller then me now. It is really getting hard on both of us. Sometimes I fall over on his lap or set him down in as awkward position and we just laugh…making the best of things. I have put off looking for a handicap van because not only can we not afford but I was truly hoping my son would be walking again by now. The reality is… it’s time to see if we can somehow find a way to get the handicap van we need so we can keep enjoying the things we love.

I have set up this fundraiser for Kyle below so that if anyone would like to help it is an easy way to give, but please don’t feel obligated. If you can’t help right now that’s ok. If you could please share this link with others or just pray with us about this growing need we now have.

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://www.gofundme.com/kylemules” target=”on” ]Donate to Kyle Here[/button]

Waterskiing is a challenge, but kyle did it!Kyle learning to draw again.

Kyle on his stable visit.

Fall Cartoons Face Painting

Face and Body Art Television - FabaTV FABAtv is your online destination for face and body art classes. Whether you are new to face painting, a professional body painter, or even a magician, FABAtv has classes you want to watch. Take a class from the comfort of your own living room with fantastic instructors like Mark Reid, Lynne Jamieson, or how about Athena Zhe who was on Season 2 of Syfy’s hit reality show, FaceOff.

FABAtv brings all the best instructors under one roof and gives you the key to access hundreds of classes and workshops from them! Subscribe today!

Not quite ready for a subscription? Not to worry! FABAtv has been satisfying the urge to learn of face and body painters everywhere for over a year now with free & live classes every month! August’s free & live class is being hosted by none other then Margi Kanter!

Margi Kanter came to the FABAtv studios for her live face painting class all the way from Chicago! Back in Chicago Margi runs her face painting business, Making Faces Chicago, and is known for the animated faces she paints! If you run into Margi on the street you will be greeted by her energetic smile and loving nature. Margi is not only a great friend, but she is a mother of three and still has time to teach face painting workshops, release new books, and teach LIVE classes! She is a bundle of energy!

Margi has released a series of face painting books focusing on the art of animating painted faces. You can pick up a copy of her latest book, Pick Your Nose Vol. 3, over at Silly Farm Supplies!

Margi Kanter LIVE on FABAtv Aug 15th | Face Painting Class

Learn How to Face Paint a Venetian Mask with Tina Carroll

Face and Body Art Television - FabaTVFABAtv is your online destination for face and body art classes. Whether you are new to face painting, a professional body painter, or even a magician, FABAtv has classes you want to watch. Take a class from the comfort of your own living room with fantastic instructors like Mark Reid, Lynne Jamieson, or how about Nix Herrera who was on Season 2 of Syfy’s hit reality show, FaceOff.
[clear]
FABAtv brings all the best instructors under one roof and gives you the key to access hundreds of classes and workshops from them! Subscribe today!

Not quite ready for a subscription? Not to worry! FABAtv has been satisfying the urge to learn of face and body painters everywhere for over a year now with free & live classes every month! July’s live class is being hosted by face & body painter, Tina Carroll!

Tina Carroll has been body painting for over 13 years and runs Transformations by Tina, offering her services in face painting, body painting, glitter tattoos, and henna to the Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. areas.

Tina’s work has been featured on several face and body art magazines, as well as being featured on the Fox 9 news in Minneapolis. She currently is working with face paint brand Snazaroo to release a face painting book sometime in the future.

Tune in to FABAtv LIVE on July 15th at 8PM EST for this free class on face and body art! Don’t miss it!

Venetian Masquerade by Tina Carroll on FABAtv LIVE

Free Marketing & Branding Class with Tal Thompson

Face and Body Art Television - FabaTVFABAtv stands for ‘Face and Body Art Television’. FABAtv is the place to be if you want to expand your knowledge of face and body art. From face painting & body painting to airbrushing or even balloon twisting, a FABAtv subscription will give you full access to the entire catalog of educational videos. That’s over 100+ classes each averaging an hour long and in stunning HD! Step up your game with classes by Mark Reid, Heather Green, Nix Herrera, and TONS more. Subscribe Today! [clear]

This months live class brought to you free of charge by FABAtv is with Tal Thompson from YBody USA! Take your business to the next level and explore the tips and tricks that have brought many others to the top. In this hour long free class, Tal will share her tips and tricks on marketing, branding, and business growth.

When: June 13th @ 8PM EST Where: FABAtv LIVE

Tal Thompson on FABAtv LIVE

Free Body Painting Class with Annie Reynolds

Annie Reynolds - Free LIVE Body Painting Class on FABAtv
Face and Body Art Television (FABAtv) is a subscription based, educational website for face and body artists. FABAtv has classes on face painting, body art, airbrushing, henna, and more! Once a month FABAtv hosts a free and live class from one of our many instructors. Take your body art to the next level with FABAtv and subscribe today!

Our featured FABAtv LIVE class for the month of May is Australian painter, Annie Reynolds!
Her company, ACA Larrikans Entertainment, has been providing quality entertainment and body art around Sydney, Australia for over 13 years.

Since she started to paint, Annie decided she wanted her paintings to be as good as her mentors Lynne Jamieson and Jinny MUA.

Body Painting by Annie ReynoldsBody Painting by Annie ReynoldsBody Painting by Annie Reynolds

After watching her paint amazing masterpieces, it was evident that Annie had already accomplished her goal. Her unique style of painting combined with her bubbly and enthusiastic personality has made her a perfect candidate to teach in the Face and Body Art International Convention. Annie’s other talents includes acting, singing and being a hairdresser.

Tune in May 15th starting at 8:00pm EST for this FREE & LIVE class on body painting with Annie Reynolds!

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://www.fabatv.com/page/live” target=”on” ]Watch FABAtv LIVE![/button]

Top 10 Reasons to Attend the FABAIC

FABAIC 2013 Welcome Banner
The 12th annual Face and Body Art International Convention (FABAIC) is upon us. May 22-26th the FABAIC will play host to 400+ of the worlds face and body art enthusiasts in Ft Lauderdale, Florida. The FABAIC has been described as a creative sleep away camp for painters. The FABAIC is a unique event that features hands on workshops, nightly painting parties called “jams”, the world’s largest face and body art supplies marketplace, the world renowned Body painting competition, and a weekend full of networking, creative moments, and extreme fun! The FABAIC is different than other make up shows because we focus on education. Our goal has always been to help you learn more so you can charge more and earn more. We design the schedule to be friendly and inviting to all levels including classes covering business, legal, marketing, balloons, face painting and more!

FABAIC FunCircus Body - Andrea O'Donnell at FABAICFABAIC 2012

The reason the FABAIC has achieved longevity and success is largely in part due to the fact that the producers are active face and body painters themselves. We brainstorm after each convention on how to improve classes, what are the popular themes and trends in the industry, and how we can plan the best possible convention for our fellow artists. We acknowledge that artists usually have to save up for the year to attend the FABAIC, which is why we go the extra mile to produce an event that exceeds their expectations. Upon arrival, attendees are greeted with bright colors, a welcome staff, and a convention goody bag filled with a t-shirt, schedule, and free goodies courtesy of the FABAIC and sponsors. Our talented instructor staff is usually in the lobby meeting and greeting attendees or painting their faces to kick off the weekend. Then we open the doors with a HUGE party and get everyone warmed up to express their colorful side. Whether you attend alone or bring a friend, you are guaranteed to leave feeling like you have found your long lost artistic family. So again, why should you make the time, effort, and investment to attend?

Here are our top 10 reasons why YOU can’t afford to miss the 2013 FABAIC!

10. Networking!
Where else can you make International connections with the world’s top artists?

9. Smorgasbord of Classes and Workshops!
ONLY at the FABAIC will you have the opportunity to take classes of this magnitude. We offer classes covering all areas of face and body art taught by the world’s top instructors.

8. Over $1,000 in cash and prizes!
The FABAIC hosts the infamous Body painting competition where you can push your creativity to the edge and win $1,000 cash prize.

7. Largest Body Art Marketplace!
Shop the world’s largest marketplace dedicated to face and body art supplies! Check out the newest products, shop and save!

6. Learning in Paradise!
The FABAIC is hosted at the lush tropical grounds of the Bonaventure Hotel and Resort in Weston, Fl. Escape the cold rainy weather and visit beautiful sunny South Florida. Take a vacation with your paint brushes.

5. Elevate your business!
Learn new skills to apply to your business right away, leave feeling rejuvenated and ready to take your business to the next level!

4. Hands on learning.
The FABAIC knows the best way to learn is by getting your hands dirty and painting the world. The FABAIC features the most hands on workshops anywhere in the world. Learn to body paint, get your hands bloody in our specials effects class, or discover the world of rainbow cakes. the possibilities are endless and the learning is unprecedented.

3. Jam, Jam, Jam!
What’s a Jam? Think of a jam as the world’s largest painting party. After a full day of learning break out your brushes, and get busy! But don’t forget to stop and take a look at your surroundings. What you will witness is magic. Imagine 400 painters jamming, painting, creating and enjoying the influence of art.

2. Once a year opportunity!
Many of our artists and instructors come from abroad to teach at the FABAIC. This is a once a year and maybe once in a lifetime opportunity to learn from the best of the best in one weekend for one low price. If you were to take classes from our instructors individually you would spend over $10,000 you save thousands and have more fun while taking classes!

1. FABAIC is the bridge that connects business success, business growth, everlasting friendships, creative motivation, and personal inspiration. Only at the FABAIC can you experience all of these things at once!

We encourage you to join us, make the investment in yourself and your business if you haven’t already! If there is anything I can do to make the FABAIC more enjoyable for you or if you have questions please don’t hesitate to ask.

Spotlight: Alex Hansen – Bones & Muscle Structure

Alex Hansen is an accomplished artist for body painting, airbrush and special effects. He has competed numerous times winning multiple awards all over, and has done special effects work in movies, such as 300 and Death Race. We’re excited to announce that FABAtv is bringing him to South Florida for a FREE LIVE class! That’s right. FREE.

Alex Hansen - Bones & Muscle Structure FABAtv LIVE

Each month FABAtv hosts an entirely free, live class on face painting, body art, magic, balloons and more! Tune in April 15th at 8PM EST to watch Alex Hansen and his class on Bones & Muscle Structure in body art.

We were able to catch Alex away from his busy life to share some details about himself and his journey as an artist.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?

AH: Well, I’m originally from Brazil now living in Montreal Canada
Was raised my whole life in Canada, I have been an artist since the day I was born

Q: Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?

AH: Yes my other full time job is my Family Life!! My two daughters and my Queen, Lymari Millot

Q: What type of face and body art do you specialize in?

AH: Well Pretty much everything.. but my forte is airbrushing and special effects

Q: How did you get your start(in face and body art)?

AH: I started off in the night clubs scene in Montreal and then moved on to working my own concepts and body artwork…. and then went into teaching and competing

Q: What’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?

AH: Being Creative and also being an inspiration to other artists, teaching and learning new art forms and other stuff

Q: Do you attend any conventions, like the FABAIC?

AH: Yes I do.. I try to be as many events as possible. I might be cutting down alot on my travels pretty soon… I believe that the world needs a break from me and me from the world…

Q: What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?

AH: Well art is my life…. being a great family man is what I love the most, besides that what else is there?

Q: Outside of art, what do you do for fun?

AH: I love going to movies, playing soccer, sculpting, and dancing with Lyrian my daughter

Q: Do you have any pet peeves?

AH: Well I have three…. Stupidity, tardiness and egos!

Q: Where do you see yourself in a couple years?

AH: well for sure a lot less traveling and starting out something I always wanted to do… Develop my own art school / studio

Q: Do you have any projects going on or in the works?

AH: I have way to many!!! Stencils and many other ideas… a book on the art of body painting which is a big dream of mine, I have had it since I started out in bodypainting

Q: What do you think of FABAtv?

AH: Well I think it is a great idea…. but I also believe you can never get the same effect with a teacher in person!!

As great as FABAtv is, Alex is right. You can’t beat a LIVE instructor! So be sure to tune in for his LIVE class Bones & Muscle Structure, and get a chance to ask him your questions LIVE!

Well, now you know a bit more about this talented artist. His services include and are available for editorials, television/film/video productions, photo shoots, trade shows, workshops, fashion shows, special occasions, promotions, events, and live performances.

If you want to reach Alex, he is available by email or facebook.
Email alexhansenart@gmail.com
Like him at Facebook.com/AlexHansenArt

Silly Farm Across the Pond

Illusions MagazineLast year I had the pleasure of touring England teaching classes courtesy of the amazing Illusion Magazine. I got a chance to meet so many talented artists and many of them had the same complaint. That it was hard get Silly Farm products in the UK.

I kindly explained that if any of the lovely Essex ladies could introduce me to David Beckham and figure out a way to get him to marry me then I would gladly move Silly Farm to England, being that David and I are both married. It seemed easier to find someone with the same love and passion as I to help us expand our product reach to the UK. As faith would have it, I met the second best thing out of Essex (after David of course), Miss Nathalie Farmer.

I am entering a decade as the owner of Silly Farm, but it still feels like my baby. I read every email, I cry when I ruin someone’s order, and the thought of trusting someone across the globe to present my products with the same passion and enthusiasm seemed impossible.

The Face Painting ShopThen I met a glitter-iffic, customer service junkie, business woman ready to make it happen. Nathalie is the owner and operator of TheFacePaintingShop.com and she is your UK source for Silly Farm supplies. Nathalie approached me with a vision of providing service with a smile, service with support, and servicing those that want quality supplies. I have watched Nathalie grow her business through her personal touch and concern for her customers. Nathalie makes it a point to work directly with Silly Farm to find out about new products, investigate best shipping options to be able to keep costs low, and never forgets to say thank you. Even though its hard for me to understand every third word she says with her fancy Essex accent, I found that her passion is infectious.

I hesitated expanding Silly Farm because I feared losing the personal touch and involvement I try to give to all my customers. However, I feel confident that Nathalie will take care of painters in her region. Entrepreneurship is scary and the paint industry is not as easy as some may think. There is a lot of inventory and investment involved in starting a business, but Nathalie took the plunge. Her dedication and commitment to our industry is why I am so excited for this partnership. Please take a moment to visit my beautiful friend Nathalie, drop her a line and let her know which products you want, love, or want to see in her shop.

Thank you for supporting Silly Farm and helping us expand across the globe. Happy Painting!

Splotlight Artist: Miss Sparkles

Miss Sparkles free balloon class on FABAtvFABAtv is an online resource for learning face and body art wher you can take online classes by international artists without ever leaving your sofa. By now you’ve probably heard that the next FREE live class from FABAtv is going to be featuring Miss Sparkles Smith and her balloon buddies. You can catch this free class on March 14th, 2013 starting at 8:00pm EST over on FABAtv LIVE!

Following our format with our Spotlight Artist of the month, this month’s interview is with none other than Miss Sparkles Smith!
Let’s get started.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from?

Fun with SparklesC: My name is Corinne Smith and I live in Michigan. I grew up in the small resort town of Houghton Lake. Currently, I live in the small town of Dryden with my husband and our two sons. Dryden is about an hour north of Detroit. I grew up in an artistic home. Both my parents are very creative. I remember my Mother taking painting classes. She would paint on both canvas and china. My father enjoys sculpting, and even today, at the age of 86, his favorite medium is snow! As I look back, it amazes me at where life’s path has taken me. I am a painter like my Mother, but my canvas is the face/body! I am a sculptor like my Father, but my medium is latex balloons! 😀 Pretty cool, if you ask me!

Parker Snow Mountie Sculpture

Q: Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?

C: Besides the full-time job of being a Wife and Mother, I am also the owner of Fun With Sparkles, LLC. This is a Family Entertainment business that I began in 2006.

Q: What type of face and body art do you specialize in?

C: I have interest in many different types of Art and Entertainment! Currently, I offer Face Painting & Pre-natal Paintings. I am also a balloon artist, I apply glitter tattoos, and I enjoy performing Silly Magic and Balloon Shows. I would love to learn the art of Bubbles next! 😀

Face painting with Miss Sparkles

Q: How did you get your start in face and body art?

C: Back in 2004, I took my young son to a near-by event where there was a fantastic Face Painter there. (Who I later learned was June VanPoppelen.) My 3 yr old and I stood in line to get his face painted. I had NEVER seen Face Painting like this before! A new world of art was being opened to me! When I returned home, I immediately got onto the computer and started searching for professional face paints and how to’s. In that year, there wasn’t YouTube Tutorials, Facebook, etc…so proper instruction was not as wide spread as it is today. After I received my face paints, I began having fun with family and friends. Later, I was asked to paint at my sister-in-laws’ church function. Everyone really enjoyed the paintings, and I absolutely LOVED the joy on their faces when I showed them the mirror! I was hooked!!!

Clowning began after I needed to come up with a costume for Halloween that was kid friendly! I have always enjoyed dressing up for Halloween. A nice, green witch was always my favorite choice, but since I had young sons, I wanted to become something more friendly. So, becoming a Clown was what came to mind! I remember my Dad dressing up in Clown to walk in Parades and just to bring joy to people.  But…I didn’t want to be an ordinary clown who wears a jumpsuit and big shoes. I wanted to be a CUTE clown! So, I searched online and found an outfit that a lady had sewn and was selling on EBay. It was adorable! The price was a bit high, and so my husband said; “We are not spending that much money on a Halloween costume.” But, I was trying to tell him that I feel like it will be more than that….I couldn’t explain it, but I had this crazy urge to become a CLOWN!?? So, I went ahead and ordered it to my size, found some excellent Pink Sparkly Platform shoes, a terrifically pink nose and a wig that I found at www.SillyFarm.com!  My Dad’s Clown name was Sparkie, so that was my inspiration for my Clown name. Sparkles was born! 😀

Balloons were next on my agenda! I went to the local library and checked out some books. Learning to twist for the first time from a book was a little tricky and I was wishing that I could learn from a real human being! So, again, I turned to GOOGLE and I found out that Michigan had a TWISTERS GROUP! I couldn’t believe it! So, I went to one of their Jam sessions and the friendly people there, helped get me plugged in to where I could take classes and such!

Q: What’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?

C: The absolute, most enjoyable part of what I do is bringing joy to others, making them feel special, and creating Fun Memories for them!  Another enjoyable part is being able to share it with my family! I have clowned with not only my Dad, but my son became interested in clowning and balloon twisting at the age of 9! We kept his Clown name in the family and named him SPARKS! Sparkles and Sparks the Clowns have entertained together at a New Year’s Eve event at a large Hotel in Sterling Heights, MI for the past 3 years in a row! My stepson has dressed as the Easter Bunny at events, my husband has played Santa, and one of my sisters has even helped with Glitter Tattoos! Fun Times!

Face Painting by Miss SparklesDia Los Muertos Face PaintingRoses Face Painting by Miss Sparkles

Q: Do you attend any conventions?

C: I have always wanted to go to a large convention like FABAIC, but with having a young family, and living very far away from the locations of these conventions, it just never worked out. However, I have attended other local conventions that have been hosted in Michigan or Ohio. The first one was in Ohio, and my Dad offered to travel with me! It was a fun time together! Perhaps one day I will make it to FABAIC!

Q: What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?

C: The more families that I can bring joy and happiness to – is what I’d like to do more of.

Q: Outside of art, what do you do for fun?

C: I enjoy spending time with my family, photography, singing, scrapbooking, and relaxing at home.

Q: Do you have any pet peeves?

C: One of my biggest pet peeves is when I cannot find something that I am looking for. It is especially annoying when I am trying to collect my things to take to a job! Lol

Q: Where do you see yourself in a couple years?

C: I see myself and Fun With Sparkles, LLC only growing in the next couple years! Currently, I have nine, eager people whom I am training to do what I do – in order to meet the demand. I already have been asked to teach classes on FABAtv and the Midwest Clown Convention this fall. Who knows what the future holds for me, but I am excited to see! 😀

Q: Do you have any projects going on or in the works?

C: Since 2011 – 2012, Fun With Sparkles, LLC business has doubled, so I am currently training up other artists to be able to expand our services. Last year, I had to turn away many customers because I was booked and could not fit them in. Now, I am becoming prepared to send out other artists that I have trained! I have a great bunch of people working with me, from age 11 and up! It is a blessing to see the excitement of the kids, teens, and adults embrace the art of bringing joy to others! I am also looking into producing some PDF file type instructions to share with the Balloon Community. I have subbed for other artists at Restaurants for the past 4 years. I would really like to gain my own Restaurant that I could entertain at on a regular basis. This is a goal of mine in 2013.

Q: What do you think of FABAtv?

C: I think FABAtv is the best ever! Especially, since I have not been able to attend a Large Convention! I can watch the classes whenever I want and as many times as I want. Even attending the conventions I have been to, my memory starts to fail me, and my notes become unclear as time passes. With FABAtv, the class is always there to watch over and over! It has really helped me become a better artist, plus the LIVE classes are a fun way to join together with other artists around the world while you learn!


You can contact Miss Sparkles online via her Facebook/funwithsparkles or on Twitter/funwithsparkles as well.
You may alternatively email her at Sparkles@FunWithSparkles.com.

Free Balloon Class on FABAtv LIVE

Miss Sparkles free balloon class on FABAtv
FABAtv is ‘Face and Body Art Television’. An online video classroom that allows you to learn side-by-side industry professionals all from the comfort of your own home! Don’t have the time at home? Kick it up on the go and watch your favorite instructors from your smart phone or tablet! FABAtv has classes from artists all around the world, covering face painting, body art, airbrushing, balloons, makeup, magic and more! What are you waiting for? Go check out what you’ve been missing on FABAtv.com!

FABAtv hosts a FREE class online every month. The artist for March’s LIVE class is Miss Sparkles Smith! Not only is Miss Sparkles a balloon artist, she is a face painter as well! Balloons are just part of the extra services she can offer her clients, and they are always a hit with kids! Don’t miss this free class on March 14th starting at 8pm est! On Monday we’ll post an exclusive interview with Miss Sparkles and get to know her, but until then have a great weekend!

Candy Land: Free Bodypaint Class with Marcio Karam

FABAtv LIVE Feb 13th with Marcio Karam

FABAtv.com is your online resource to watch unlimited face and body art classes in crystal clear HD. Learn from the masters of makeup, special effects, body art and more right from the comfort of your own home. All you need is a high speed internet connection!

Soccer Body Paint by Marcio KaramFABAtv also hosts a free & LIVE class every month. Tune in on February 13th at 8:00pm est for this months LIVE class! This live class will be featuring master body painter, Marcio Karam! A painter for over 13 years, Marcio has painted cars, boats, bikes, murals and more. Skin is not his only canvas! Check out his work to the side and below. Visit his website at MKArts.com for more works of art or to contact Marcio.
[clear]

“My favorite part of body painting is making my art seem real, and having viewers question if it is actual paint!” -Marcio Karam

Avatar Body paint by Marcio KaramBody paint by Marcio KaramBody paint by Marcio Karam

So tune in to this free class and support your industry! This live class is available to watch for free through the FABAtv website on February 13th starting at 8:00pm EST!

[button type=”ambitious_button” url=”http://www.fabatv.com/page/live” target=”on” ]Watch it LIVE![/button]

Passionate Pickn’s

Margi Kanter - Nose Artimation face paintingI have met many talented artists throughout the years. Most of them have been introduced to me by my aunt and mentor, Marcela “Mama Clown”. Anytime we were traveling through the Midwest she would always say, “Let me call my friend Margi”, but it wasn’t until the FABAIC that I truly got to see first hand how special the infamous “Margi” truly was.

Margi Kanter is the author of the Pick Your Nose book series. The third installment of her wild face and body art Nose Artimation books has been release recently, so I was inspired to write about her and her accomplishments. You can pick up the newest addition to the Pick Your Nose books over at Silly Farm Supplies.
[clear]
Pick Your Nose V3 Under the Sea

If I had to pick one word to describe Margi it would be AMAZING! Margi is a mother, an artist, a friend, a yogi, a teacher, a businesswoman, an author, and most of all she is a positive force that turns the wheel of face and body art inspiration. Margi introduced the world to her unique style of face painting called Nose Artimation and face painting hasn’t been the same ever since. Margi took the skills her late fiancé and talented caricature artist, David Levi, helped her fine tune and along with her background in art she put her own quirky spin on your everyday designs.

That combination of fun, love, and animation helped motivate Margi to create a line of books and a series of workshops that she has premiered across the globe. I had the extreme pleasure of teaching alongside Margi in Holland and at several FABAIC conventions. I have watched her grow her style with so much passion that I HAD to figure out a way to help her publish her books. Margi is one of the most giving and gifted instructors I have ever worked with. I have watched her breakdown concepts, share ideas, and give selflessly to her students. Margi’s attitude plays a HUGE role in her success.

[button type=”ambitious_button” url=”http://www.sillyfarm.com/store/index.php?p=product&id=5433&parent=398″ target=”on” ]Get Volume 3![/button]

Margi Kanter

Margi Kanter Belly PaintingWhen I initially approached Margi about helping me birth FABAtv(Face and Body Art Television), she jumped on the first plane and made it a priority. When I asked instructors to help with our Paint-a-Thon, again she jumped up to help. When someone asks a questions or needs a little push in the right direction, Margi is there to lend a helping hand. All of these qualities have helped her achieve her dream and will be the reason she will forever be a success and always in our hearts.

I hope that those of you reading this blog will gain some inspiration from Margi. Besides being a best selling author, Margi is also a phenomenal business woman and is not afraid to go after her dream and turn it into a reality. I hope that those following the FABA Blog gain some inspiration from Margi and follow your passion. Margi has gone through many ups and downs to get to this point, and yet her passion, positivity, and perseverance is the reason she is a star.

Please support Margi and her new book, drop her a note on her Facebook and if you ever need a crazy, wild, fun loving burst of energy give her a call. I have a feeling she will change your mood and put you in a pick’n good mood.

Take a class with Margi Kanter on FABAtv

Test Drive: Glitter Powders

Face and Body Art Television - FabaTVFABAtv is face and body art television, a leader in the education of this fine art. Using state of the art technology, FABAtv is able to bring you classes in stunning High Definition videos straight to your smart phone, tablet, or other web-enabled device.

Where else is learning at your finger tips with hundreds of HD video classes from international makeup artists, face & body painters, airbrush artists and more!

Up until February 6th FABAtv is letting you watch ‘Magic of Glitter Powders’ absolutely free! Head over to their facebook page to find out how.


Test Drive FABAtv

Double Spotlight: Léa Selley & Wiser

As some of you are aware by now, the next free & LIVE class by FABAtv.com is on January 15th, 2013 with face & body artist Léa Selley! Léa will be teaching graffiti eye makeup for her live class, as well as filming several more studio classes for future release.

Lea Selley on FABAtv LIVE

Joining Léa on her trip and to film some classes in studio himself is none other than the talented graffiti artist turned body painter, Wiser Oner!

Knowing full well that thousands of painters will be absorbing everything they wrote, Léa and Wiser were both excited to answer our questions and share their lives with the face & body artists that come to the FABA Blog. Continue reading below for the double spotlight interview.

Léa’s answers are on the left.
Lea Selley - Jan
Wiser’s answers are on the right.
Wiser Oner face painting an older lady

Tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?

(Léa) Grew up on a unique landscape in Richmond, BC on a small farm close to a fishing village where the mighty Fraser River meets the Pacific Ocean. I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to grow and learn to develop a close relationship with the natural world. I grew up in a very artistic environment speaking both English and French, endless music lessons ongoing in the house and long days of drawing.

(Wiser) Originally from Denver, Colorado! Now residing in Calgary, Alberta in Canada! :)

Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?

(Léa)I have been working as an artist full time since 2011. Before that I successfully ran my own website development company since 2002. It has been very rewarding to flip the focus from working for clients and telling the whole internet world how great and exciting their products were, and shine the light on my artwork and my passion. I find being self employed as an artist or a web developer has been the same road in terms of running a business, however, it has been SO much more rewarding since following my passion and creating artwork for a living!

(Wiser) Ive been a full time freelance artist since 2006 when I co-founded a Denver based custom graffiti art company called Your Name In Graffiti™. I painted everything from giant walls to sneakers, t-shirts, hats, and basically anything I could stick paint to. :) I had been doing graffiti since I was 15 and was one of the lucky few in my city ambitious enough to be able to progress into doing it professionally.

What type of face and body art do you specialize in?

(Léa)After some unique experience working as a carnie for a couple of years, where I would sometimes face paint over a hundred people a day, I discovered some magical secrets to get kids to sit still and surrender to the face painting experience. This ‘magic’ talent makes parents gasp and grab their cameras in the lineup, because for many it seems like it is the first time they have seen their kids sit still with their eyes closed and a smile on their little lips… calm, still little angel faces, turned up towards me. I can feel the moment when I capture and calm the rambunctious, sugar rushed, or hyper-sensitive children with my painting spell, and that is the moment I know it is on. They are guaranteed to walk away with one of my best pieces of artwork, securing them much love, attention and eye contact all day long.

(Wiser) When I first started instructing I was mainly specializing in Graffiti wildstyle lettering and speed painting (for success at events like Sturgis and Fantasy Fest), but over the last few years I’ve fallen in love with fine art style painting and outside teaching I have found myself doing lots of conceptual fine art pieces meant for photography. But I always throw a graffiti flava into everything I do!! :) More recently I have also been creating some face painting designs too which is so fun!

How did you get your start(in face and body art)?

(Léa)I bought a kit of snazaroo face paint from ebay because I thought it would be fun to paint the kids for my daughters B-Day party since she was born on Halloween. When parents started picking up their kids from the party to go trick or treating people were straight up flipping out! On the long walk that night I was told over and over I should start a business and offer face painting. In my experience people don’t just flip out for no reason, so I took at good look at the road sign on my path and decided the next day that I would be The Tattooed Lady – Face Painter!

(Wiser) After a chance meeting at a street fair in Denver (he had a face painting booth a few spaces down from my graffiti hat booth) I made friends with a man we all know and love, Mark Reid. He thought my graffiti was killer and he invited me to a Body Art Ball event to see him paint! After that I knew I had to try it! I had painted graffiti on many things but never a person, and to me it felt like a match made in heaven! Mark told me what kind of paint and brushes to get. I bought my first kit and never looked back!! I loved it so much I did it for FUN!! Still do… :)

What’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?

(Léa)Being able to ‘break the rules’, and with a little makeup I help other people feel like they are breaking the rules too! It really is amazing how many people live within the invisible confines and norms of society – it is way more fun to be able to put away the Maybelline and pull out the face paint and shock some folks! I have never ‘won’ anything, but every time I put my artwork out there, I am the crowd favorite, and there is nothing like a standing ovation! I really enjoy surprising people with what I can paint in a short amount of time on such a little canvas. I know that each time I paint a masterpiece on someone’s face, they are going to get epic amounts of attention and eye contact that day, which is just what the Dr. ordered for many people who need that special boost!

(Wiser) Connecting, sharing, and interacting with so many creative souls all over the world are some of the most rewarding things about my experience as an artist. I am very blessed to meet so many amazing friends! :)

Do you attend any conventions, like the FABAIC?

(Léa)I have not attended FABAIC…yet, but I have been to the Canadian face and body art convention ‘Bodyssey‘ and the infamous NABPC and FPBA when they were in Las Vegas. Attending classes, watching other artists paint and making new friends and contacts in the industry has been an invaluable learning experience. Education is always a great idea!

(Wiser) My very first convention as well as my very first time instructing was at FABAIC in 2009!! It was a life changing proving ground which led me to instructing at conventions and workshops all over the globe! I love La Fete in New Orleans too! I love juggling fire with Magic Mike and hitting up Bourbon St. with Craig Tracy, but FABAIC remains my favorite because nothing can compare to the creative energy that gets flowing when a few hundred creative minds are slingin paint and having a good time at one of the jams! It’s a very inspiring! :)

What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?

(Léa)I would like to travel more, and I think I am on a constant quest for it. I majored in geography in university and worked as a Cartographer for a number of years. Making maps and studying people patterns on the landscape, although intellectually thrilling, I felt limited in my life experience. Working behind a computer, making maps and analyzing demographic data didn’t allow for the wild card that I’ve always really wanted of experiencing all these different places in the world! Switching focus to web development left me with the same feeling. I was just making a different kind of map, and still making it for other people. I’ve now decided I am going to make own map and use it! I am ready, and off to find an adventure with a healthy level of certainty that face painting will be pivotal part of my story!

(Wiser) I really would like to learn more about and mess around with molding and casting prosthetic pieces! After seeing what amazing thing are possible from artists like Yolanda Bartram of Body FX and Alex Hansen I am left intrigued and very curious in this realm of body art. :)

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?

(Léa)For fun I like to hang out with my daughters. They are growing up fast and they keep me young!

(Wiser) Going to the movies has always been one of my favorite things to do! I’m also always down for a good hip hop show!

Do you have any pet peeves?

(Léa)Yes. popping bubble wrap… ahhh! I actually have to take a deep breath when thinking about it lol! It drives me totally crazy. It never lasts long because eventually they will run out of bubbles to pop… but I usually end up leaving the room before that happens!
(Editor’s note: My stress reliever is popping bubble wrap. We’re on opposite ends of the spectrum here. *hides bubble wrap*)

(Wiser) My apartment complex doesn’t allow pets! 😉

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?

(Léa)Right here – on the internet, sharing, teaching, learning, traveling, painting, inspiring, loving, laughing…

(Wiser) Definitely still learning, progressing and creating! I consider myself a lifelong student and feel like I’m never done learning. Being an expert at one thing doesn’t matter when you’re an amateur at another, so I’m always looking for ways to expand my knowledge and creativity!

Do you have any projects going on or in the works?

(Léa)Yes, Absolutely! I just started a YouTube channel(TheTattooedLadyCA) with fast, upbeat tutorials to help inspire your face painting routine! It is my time to give back and honor the teachers that mentored me, and I want to share the techniques that I have learned on my entertainment path. I also want to connect with my country as a whole and I just started releasing content in Canada’s other official language, French! I have found in my regular face painting job that loads of kids speak French out here in Calgary, and it is so important for kids to be able to interact in everyday life using both languages as their skills are developing. So I find myself intrigued to integrate more French language content into my projects, and see what direction that takes me in!

(Wiser) Very exited to be making my first ever workshop tour in Australia and New Zealand! I’m looking forward to that A LOT! And also conceptualizing some new pieces to paint at Gallery ML in early April 2013. It’s one of my favorite places to paint!! :)

What do you think of FABAtv?

(Léa)I think it is great! The live component gives all us skin painters a chance to get together and hang out and interact and learn together as a community for free! I bought a membership pretty much as soon as FABAtv was launched. The taped show are great for ideas and nothing compares to watching someone who knows what they are doing! If a picture is worth a thousand words then videos are priceless when it comes to evaluating them as an educational material. I also use FABAtv as company sometimes. Many of the teachers on the show I consider friends. I have painted alongside them at conventions, competitions, and I have worked with others professionally.

(Wiser) Love it! Its definitely where you can learn from all the best in the face and body industry! Essential!

Art by Léa in this column.

Lea Painting

Belly Painting by Lea Selley

Body painting by Lea Selley

Amp Energy bodypaint by Lea Selley

Body paint twin - Lea Selley

Body paint twin - Lea Selley

Face Painting - Lea Selley in Action

Face painting - Lea Selley in action

Fancy Season Butterfly by Lea Selley

Lea Selley

Lea Selley at Sturgis Bike Rally

Lea Selley - Self portrait

Lea Selley painting Jay Bautista

painting-action

Sturgis Bike Rally bodypaint by Lea Selley

Art by Wiser in this column.

Graffiti bodypaint by Wiser

Blue graffiti bodypaint by Wiser

Magical Cards bodypaint by Wiser with Michael Dardant

Card rose bodypaint by Wiser

Mutant Graffiti bodypaint by Wiser

Green Head Graffiti by Wiser

Head Graffiti art by Wiser

Hummingbird bodypaint by Wiser

Wall Graffiti by Wiser

White Graffiti bodypaint by Wiser

Tree frogs bodypaint by Wiser

Steampunk Skull bodypaint by Wiser

bodypainted wood clock by Wiser

Win a free Silly Farm Brush Set or FABAtv Subscription!

Silly Farm Face Painting Design Contest

There’s a million different contests and surveys going on around the world wide web as we speak, but only one contest will matter to YOU. Here’s your chance to win a free Silly Farm Signature Brush Set or a free month subscription to FABAtv with the latest Silly Farm contest.

Silly Farm Supplies is hosting a photo contest on their facebook page, and it’s easy to be a part of it! Grab your paints and get ready, because submissions to this contest are now open!

Submitting a Contest Entry

  1. Paint up your best tiger face painting design with all the bells and whistles you can muster.
  2. Snap a clean, in-focus picture of the completed design.
  3. Submit the photo of your design as an official entry to the contest.
    (Multiple submissions are allowed, but entries are limited to one per day.)
  4. The official contest page can be found here on the Silly Farm Facebook. This contest is fan-focused and voting runs from January 15th through the 21st. Winners will be announced after the 21st of January and will be contacted by email.

    Enjoy the contest! Leave a comment below and tell us what you would like to see as a future contest or prize.

FREE Class on Graffiti Eyes with Léa Selley

Lea Selley on FABAtv LIVE
Lea Selley - JanFABAtv.com is an online face & body art classroom at the palm of your hands. A first in the industry, FABAtv brings one-on-one classroom oriented teaching right to the comfort of your own home. All you need is a high-speed internet connection and a web-enabled device, and you have hundreds of classes on face painting, body painting, airbrush art, and more at your fingertips!

FABAtv premieres a FREE & LIVE class every month. Starting off 2013 with a bang, this month’s LIVE artist is Canadian face painting sensation Léa Selley! You might of seen some of her YouTube videos under her alias, The Tattooed Lady. Below is a sample tutorial of what Léa will be teaching in this upcoming class. Tune in to FABAtv LIVE at 8pm EST on Tuesday, January 15th and catch Graffiti Eyes with Léa Selley, only on FABAtv.com.

You can find Léa Selley on Facebook, or contact her through her website, www.thetattooedlady.ca. Read more about Léa and her class on The Tattooed Lady’s blog.

Graffiti Eye Tutorial

*This is not the LIVE class*

Like the tutorial? Buy the Graffiti Spatter Stencil from Léa and save time face painting!

Silly Farm Partners with European Distributor

A South Florida based company, Silly Farm Supplies is an international retailer and supplier of face & body art products & equipment. Known for their revolutionary Arty Brush Cakes, Rainbow Cakes and other multi-colored combination cakes. Silly Farm is now proud to be able to offer their exclusive products from our European partner & distributor.

Silly Farm products in Holland

Da Grime and Silly Farm have teamed up to bring exclusive Silly Farm brand products to Europe without you having to pay an arm and a leg for shipping overseas. European customers can now find Silly Farm Exclusives through the dagrime.nl web store.

Products now available in Europe

Da Grime Phyiscal Store

Da Grime Physical Store

Da Grime Physical Store

We hope that with our new partnership we will be able to continuously serve you with our ever growing product selection, friendly service, great prices, and fast shipping.

Letter from the CEO

Hello friends,

I want to take a moment to express my gratitude and overwhelming appreciation for painters worldwide. 2012 has been a whirlwind year. It has been filled with many highs, lows, new beginnings and endings, but through it all our Silly Farm supporters have been the guiding light. So, for that I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Silly Heather Face PaintingI hate the word CEO. I still blush when my staff calls me their boss in public, and I still feel like the excited college grad ready to take on the world of face paint. Its been 10 years since I took hold of that title and 2012 was the first year I felt comfortable adding CEO to my name.

I am writing this letter to say thank you, but also remind each of you to be proud of what you have accomplished this year. How can we expect anyone to value what we do, when we don’t put enough praise and effort into accepting our accomplishments? If you ventured into the world of entrepreneurship and started your business, or made the investment in FABAtv, the FABAIC, or purchased some new equipment… take a moment to be proud. You could have jumped ship when things got hairy or you could have put it off another year, but you didn’t. You are responsible for helping our industry grow, for helping Silly Farm and FABAtv expand, offer more benefits to our employees, and hopefully our products & services have helped you bring more income home.

The world of face painting is built on creative spirits and a love for people. After all you can not want or continue to face paint if you aren’t someone that likes people. Your energy has established face and body art as a real art form, a legitimate business and has birthed thousands of entrepreneurs. I am proud and grateful for the part I have played in it.

My wish for you and your business for 2013 is that you don’t give up, that you set goals, meet them and exceed them. I made a promise to myself to make 2013 more about giving, receiving, and taking time to be proud. When we realize how far we have come, it’s a motivator for how far we can go.
Thank you again for helping me make my dreams come true with FABAtv, to all the painters that have done stellar work for My FAB Events and helped us gain national accounts; to my FABA Blog team and subscribers, to the supporters of Silly Farm and to all of the amazing painters that invest in their careers and attend the FABAIC.

Your support has helped us in more ways than you can imagine. It gives me great pride to offer my staff benefits, to be able to have an outlet to fundraise over $70,000 for our dear friend Brian Wolfe, to have the means to create free face painting youtubes that help painters worldwide, to have great friends across the pond like Illusion Magazine and Superstar, and for allowing me the opportunity to meet such great painters and give lessons, to be involved in an industry that shares, creates and in one big family. I consider each of you a friend and my door and ears are always open to you. I want to know if I can do better, how I can help you reach your goals, and how we can meet your needs. I built this company on customer service and you have my promise that we will work hard every day to be your one stop, full service, friendly, family-oriented company with the products you love, want and need.

Please keep my personal email, heather@sillyfarm, use it when you need it and if you are ever near our store please accept my personal invite to come and see us, take a picture and join the family. There would be no us, without you.

I wish everyone a Happy and safe New Year! We will be back in full swing next year! See you in 2013!

Heather xoxoxox

Silly Farm Customers & Family

Free Face Painting Class with Silly Heather

FABAtv Instructor Heather Green

FABAtv (Face and Body Art Television) is feeling the Holiday spirit this winter. If you’re a subscriber to FABAtv, you’ve probably seen the free face painting class they are offering this month. Unlike the usual free & live class that FABAtv hosts around the 15th every month, this is an actual studio-filmed-and-edited class.

Holly Jolly Christmas by Heather Green

The artist behind this free face painting class is Heather Green, aka Silly Heather. Many of you have know of Heather as the owner of Silly Farm Supplies and from her YouTube face painting tutorials. Her latest class is all about Christmas and Holiday designs. You can catch Heather’s free class, Holly Jolly Christmas, on fabatv.com throughout the month of December!

Silly Farm Christmas Commercial

Just in time for the Holidays. This is our very first commercial for Silly Farm and Santas little helper just can’t wait to give you some Silly Farm gifts! Have you been naughty or nice this year?


December only!
Get a free bonus $5 added to your gift card of $50 or more only at Silly Farm Supplies – Everything Face & Body Art. Get yours now!
Gift Card Madness! Bonus $5

Free & Live Bodypainting Class with Jinny Makeup Artiste

Jinny Makeup Artiste on FABAtv Genevieve Houle, who the world has come to know as Jinny Makeup Artiste, is a world renowned face and body artist. Co-creator of the Paradise Makeup AQ™, Jinny has traveled the world, teaching & performing her art for international media, shows, commercials and more. Jinny is widely recognized for not only her ability to paint amazing pieces of art, but to objectively critique and advise artists of all talent levels. She has previously been a judge at the World Body Painting Festival in Austria and at the Face and Body Art International Convention in the USA.

Jinny Body ArtJinny Body ArtJinny Body Art

Jinny is an active instructor, always willing to share her passion with others. Occasionally she puts out free tutorials through her youtube channel, but this week she will be traveling to South Florida to film a couple brand new classes for FABAtv! On Thursday, December 13th, Jinny will also be teaching an entirely FREE face and body art class through FABAtv LIVE! Tune in December 13th at 8pm EST for this hour long class on Quick & Wow Body Art!

Jinny Makeup Artist face and body art classes

Jinny Body ArtJinny Body Art

Silly Farm Supplies – Throwback Thursday

Of the thousands of times I walk past Marcela’s office door, I see the same collage of pictures. Out of them all, there are four that stand out. They are taped to separate stock papers in pairs and the papers are taped together to the rest of the collage. There’s a tiny note above each paper that says, “The beginning of Silly Farm” and “Silly Farm a longggg time ago!”.

I found some spare time to sneak over and take the pictures down for a couple minutes while I carefully untaped them. After scanning each one, I taped them back up and put them back among the collage on Marcela’s office door.

The Beginning of Silly Farm

The beginnings of Silly Farm.
The beginnings of Silly Farm.

Silly Farm a longggg time ago!

Silly Farm a lonnggg time ago!
Silly Farm a lonnggg time ago!

Silly Farm Supplies Now

(Edit 11/30/12)
I was going to save some pictures of the current Silly Farm for later, but since everyone wants to see them, here they are. Just a few. :)

Silly Farm Supplies Showroom

Silly Farm Supplies Showroom

The entrance to Silly Farm
Silly Farm Supplies Entrance

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, & Cyber Monday

Thanksgiving is two days away for those in the USA, and besides us honoring the traditions of cramming our faces full of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry, you’ll be able to stuff ALL your stockings with gifts from the many deals that go on after the Thanksgiving Holiday. Welcome in Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday.


Black Friday Walmart
Image Courtesy of Wikipedia Commons

 

Black Friday

One of the best known shopping days of the year, Black Friday falls the day after Thanksgiving. Many retailers open early, some open at midnight, offering insane deals you normally wouldn’t find any other day of the year.


Small Business Saturday

Shop Small - AmexCreated by American Express in 2010, after they realized with all the largest brands and retailers offering amazing deals, what’s the incentive to shop small? The deals are better at the large corporate stores. That’s where American Express came into play and started Small Business Saturday, offering $25 to their Cardmembers whenever they shop small on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, dubbed Small Business Saturday.

If you want to take advantage of Small Business Saturday and get a free $25 back on your American Express statement, you must register your American Express card through their website before 11:59pm on November 24th, 2012, and make a qualifying purchase on Small Business Saturday.

For your purchase to Qualify:

  • Your card must be enrolled (See above on how to register your card)
  • Only in-store purchases qualify. Online purchases do NOT.
  • Your purchase must be at a qualifying Small Business. Visit AMEX to find out where to shop.
  • Your purchase must total $25 or more, in one transaction.

Cyber Monday Sales
Image courtesy of Marin / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Cyber Monday

Originally dubbed Cyber Monday in 2005, it is the Monday after Thanksgiving in which many people would rather search for deals online from the comfort of their own home(or work even) instead of fighting the hordes of people during Black Friday. Sounds way safer after hearing some of the crazy Black Friday stories of people being injured by stampeding shoppers.

It’s not just big brands that offer deals on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, or Cyber Monday. We know the biggest deals everyone looks at are in electronics, but don’t worry, even Silly Farm and FABAtv have some killer Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals for all the painters out there.


FABAtv Black Friday Contest

Kindle FireFABAtv is giving away a free Kindle Fire on Black Friday to one lucky subscriber! The catch? Just subscribe to FABAtv on Black Friday and you’re entered in the drawing! It’s that simple, and a FABAtv subscription starts at only $29.99. If you take advantage of the FABAtv annual subscription, not only will you be entered in the Kindle Fire drawing, but you’ll receive a free $50 gift card to Silly Farm!


Silly Farm Supplies Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals

Black Friday & Cyber Monday Silly Farm Deals
Silly Farm Supplies is having a slew of discounts and freebies on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
You will need to sign up your email address to the Silly Farm newsletter to receive all the codes to use for your discounts on Black Friday.
On Cyber Monday they will be offering free shipping to the continental US on all orders over $25!

Free & LIVE Bodypainting Class with Mark Reid

Free LIVE Class with Mark Reid

Master bodypainter Mark Reid will be at the FABAtv Studios on Wednesday, November 14th to film some more amazing face & body art classes, as well as a live class! Tune in at 8:00 pm EST to catch this free class, just click on the banner above!

Mark Reid Tiger Face PaintingMark Red Butterfly eye design

In the past we have had the privilege of Mark teach some of the children classes at the 2009 FABAIC, where he left the parents in awe. Mark is very passionate about art and loves to teach. He is a regular at the Face and Body Art International Convention and we are proud to have him as part of the FABAIC family! So mark your calendars and tune in on November 14th for a free LIVE class with Mark Reid!

RAWards Miami

RAWards City Winners

RAWards is one of the largest indie art shows in the world. Held annually at the end of every October by RAW: Natural Born Artists, they host a national competition that will eventually select nine winners out of the 10,000 artists competing for the national title. There will be one winner in each category:

  • Visual Arts
  • Fashion Designer
  • Accessories Designer
  • Film Maker
  • Hair Stylist
  • Makeup Artist
  • Musician
  • Performing Artist
  • Photographer

This year the 2012 RAWards semi-finals for Miami were held at the The Stage in the Miami Design District. The winners of each of the nine competition categories will be on their way to Los Angeles, California for the national RAWards Finals in January.

We’re proud to have our very own Pam Trent heading to L.A. to compete in the finals for the title of RAWards 2012 Performing Artist of the Year! Pam took a couple minutes out of her busy day here at Silly Farm to answer a few questions and give you an exclusive interview.

Pam Trent Performing Artist of The Year Miami RAWards 2012

Zombie Skinned Spiderman with special effects makeupDay of the Dead Body Art by Pam TrentSugar Skull Body Art by Pam Trent


So Pam, tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?

I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico and lived there for 54 years before I moved to south Florida.

How did you get your start(in face and body art)?

I have always painted and was asked by a church if I could face paint for the Fall Festival. I had never done this before but decided – what the heck – should not be too hard. Well, all it took was that one night and I was hooked for good!

How did you end up at Silly Farm?

Funny, I came out here for a Body Painting Competition in Young Circle in Hollywood. I was staying with Marcela – actually several of us were. We were sitting on her balcony one night and she was telling me Heather needed someone to help her and someone that knew the products. I told her I was so interested. That was in Feb and I arrived here, bags (actually a 16 ft. truck, cat and hauling a car) packed on March 18, 2008.

What is your favorite part about face and body art?

First I love the creativity of the whole process – how it just seems to blossom and come together with one idea. Second is the smiles – you cannot beat the smiles.

What conventions would you recommend for those just getting into face and body art?

FABAIC of course. There is no convention where you can be a beginner or master in your trade and not be able to benefit from something at this convention. The other convention that I absolutely love is La Fete. It is small, very laid back, but so much fun!

What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?

I want to have a show in an art gallery – I want to go out and teach more – and I would LOVE to get my foot in the door for movies!!! Special FX – and maybe FACEOFF one day!

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?

I love the beach!!! I love musical theatre(I go whenever I get the chance), love festivals and love to travel!

Do you have any pet peeves?

All I am going to say is “Yes”!

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?

I have just won Performing Artists of the Year with RAW. I would love to “be discovered”. I would love to work in movies – makeup/special FX. I am still wanting to compete at the World Body Painting Festival.

Do you have any projects going on or in the works?

Well, I just finished working for Fright Nights(haunted house), and I have gone on the road teaching Special FX/Gore. I am also going to compete in the body painting competition in Wisconsin in February, and I have a young lady that is wanting to collaborate on a special project, but I can’t share all the details just yet.


Spotlight Artist: John Place

John Place Headshot

Tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?

Hi, my name is John Place I recently turned 26 years old….. and EVEN MORE recently turned 35. I am from Sunrise, Florida. I was born and raised in South Florida, which is rare, because most people from South Florida move north and vise versa.  I have 3 children,  2 boys and a girl.

Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?

I don’t know if I consider myself an “Artist”, I have many jobs. I am the Producer of FABAtv, I do all of the shooting and editing, and I have a few other business that I do also. Zombie Ice & Zombie Dogz are two food trucks I own that specialize in shaved ice and gourmet hot dogs. Green Box Studios is my video production company. We create corporate and web based videos for companies all over the world. I also do graphic design and printing of flyers, brochures, business cards etc. I guess I really am an artist in many forms.

Special FX Gore Neck Wound by John Place

What type of face and body art do you specialize in?

I LOVE gore and special FX makeup, prosthetics and body paint.

How did you get your start (in face and body art)?

Ok, ready? Here we go. Balloon Artist James Changefield introduced me to  Heather Banks-(Green now) a few years ago. I did my first Face Paint DVD video project for her and it took FOREVER, like 19 hours of shooting and 60 hours of editing, from that moment I NEVER wanted to do another face paint again. About a year later Heather came to me again with an idea to do 1 hour online face and body art class videos and to do 5 per month. At first I was not really too excited, how could we do that if it was going to take 80 hours of production per class? After many meetings and lots of trial and error I figured out how to do it in less then half the time.. so in March of 2011 we launched FABAtv.com. Lets go back in time for a second to little John Place in kindergarden….. I hated to color, I actually got put into pre-first because of my hate of art and coloring. That trait stayed with me throughout my adult life. Back to the present. Like the Ninja Turtles to Master Splinter, after watching countless hours, shooting, editing, watching again, I started to learn from the Masters of face and body painting. My first real interest in this art was when I shot the class for Nix Herrera’s lingerie class. After watching him, I thought, “WOW, I think I can do that”. So after spending lots of money on supplies, brushes, compressor, paints, etc, I painted my girlfriend and I was surprisingly pleased with the outcome. I posted the photos on Facebook and people were giving me great responses. I was hooked. Next was Brady Neher, Mark Reid, Wiser, just to name a few… It wasn’t until I did a class with FX and gore artist Pam Trent that I knew where my niche would be. There is something about the raw emotion that people have when they see realistic gore FX makeup out in the public. I have been posting photos of my work on my Facebook wall and have been getting responses from people around around the
world.

FABAtv LIVE October 16th with John Place

What’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?

WOW.. that’s a hard one. I guess meeting people from all over the world and seeing their excitement when they talk about their art. OH and the fact that my studio is at Silly Farm Supplies, there are 24 women, me and one other guy in the office. It’s awesome, except for one week a month, I don’t even come into the office… lol This will probably get edited out. (Editors Note: Nope!) :) I also enjoy grossing people out, I don’t really like doing gore or FX when it’s close to Halloween. I like it in May, when people don’t expect to see someones eye or face busted open. It’s Awesome.

Werewolfe Special FX Body Paint by John PlaceJoanna - Johns alter egoBloody Eye Special FX by John Place

John hard at workDo you attend any conventions, like the FABAIC?

Well, I kind of attend. I am usually very busy shooting FABAtv Videos at that time. We have the best of the best in town, so we try to shoot as many people as possible. It’s long days for me in the studio during the FABAIC.

What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?

I would like to travel more. I never get out. If anyone would want to invite me to Vacation/Holiday you can reach me at silly farm ;).

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?

For fun?…. I work 24/7. I LOVE going to the movies.

Do you have any pet peeves? 

No, But I have a pet Chihuahua. His name is Taco. (Editors Note: I thought you gave Taco away cause he kept chewing your computer cords?)

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?

Traveling the world teaching gore and FX would be cool, but even more, retired and sipping on cold non-alcoholic drinks by the pool.

Do you have any projects going on or in the works?

Just launching my new Zombie Ice food truck. It’s a lot of work.

What do you think of FABAtv?
FABAtv???… I am a true testament that FABAtv WORKS!!

Bloody Neck - Special FX by John PlaceWerewolf Back - Special FX by John PlaceMinced Hand Bloody Special FX by John Place

Remember to tune in to FABAtv LIVE on October 16th at 8:00pm EDT for a free live class by John Place on Special Effects!

Spotlight Artist – Dutch Bihary

Anime Girl Bodypaint by Dutch Bihary

The month of September brings a new Spotlight Artist, Dutch Bihary! Dutch will be answering a few questions of ours and is in the middle of getting ready for his FABAtv debut with his free LIVE class next week on September 13th, starting at 8:00 pm EST. Dutch Bihary Free LIVE Class on FABAtv

Let’s get to the interview now; Tell us a little about yourself Dutch, where are you from?
I was born and raised and still live in Washington state. From as early as junior high I liked the idea of a career being a teacher. I have always been naturally artistic but found it hard to make a career with my abilities early on. I did have a chance to refine my skills right out of high school from a year I spent illustrating comic books.

Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?
I’m a full time face and body artist and I also do special effects make up for video and films. Currently I’m also the artistic director for a multi-attraction haunt.

What type of face and body art do you specialize in?
I specialize in illustrative cheek and mural style body art with brush and sponge, as well as 3d transformations.

Cogs Bodypainting by Dutch BiharyTiger bodypaint by Dutch BiharyTribal Gecko face painting by Dutch Bihary

How did you get your start in face & body art?
I painted my first face in October of 2005 and started our business the following year. My wife volunteered me to fill in temporarily for a face painter that quit last minute at a local pumpkin patch. I was hooked after the first day.

What’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?
The most enjoyable part of what I do is free creating requests out of my head. No display, just an off the wall idea and a spark of inspiration.

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?
When not working, I enjoy exercising, watching movies, comic books, and cooking. I also enjoy vacation time with my wife and kids, and riding my motorcycle I also love sailing, snowboarding, and camping.

Do you have any pet peeves?
My pet peeves are “oh, I don’t care, just paint anything” followed by “oh, that’s not exactly what I expected”.

Do you attend any conventions, like the FABAIC?
I regularly attend FPBA Vegas as well as living canvas. I’m looking forward to FABAIC in 2013.

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?
I hope to make a long happy career teaching workshops, painting faces and bodies, along with doing make up and special effects for film.

What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?
I do enjoy and would like to have more involvement with the haunt industry in the future.

What do you think of FABAtv?
FABA tv is a fantastic tool for those who need their instructions reiterated til they get it! Most people don’t understand how to implement new techniques and skill sets until they have practiced them to a point where they are comfortable integrating them into their personal bag of tricks. FABA tv is a way to do this in the comfort of your own home without the stress of performing!

Body Painting Wolfe Brothers by Dutch Bihary

Dragon Body Paint by Dutch BiharyEye Design by Dutch Bihary


Contact Ductch

You can visit his website at www.contoursfx.com, or contact him by email at online@contoursfx.com.

Contours FX on FacebookFind him on FaceBook at facebook.com/likecontoursfx
Contours FX on TwitterTweet to him on Twitter at twitter.com/ContoursFX

Our Favorite Holiday

Our favorite holiday is almost upon us… Halloween!!!!!!!!

Now is the time to start stocking up on all your Halloween needs, with August nearly over, there’s just one more month until the scare season starts!

Zombie Skin 4ozA new product on the market this year is Zombie Skin. This amazing product is so easy and versatile to use. It is an ammonia free latex product that you can use to sculpt your goriest creations, or blend the edges of the prosthetics you will be using. It dries almost instantly and is so much fun to use!!!! It can be used alone or on top of your tissue paper and wax creations.

[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.sillyfarm.com/store/index.php?p=product&id=5311&parent=0″ target=”on” ]Get Zombie Skin[/button]

[clear]
Mehron 3D Gel - Blood EffectsAnother great product for this season is Mehron 3D Gel. This product is so much fun to use. You have to melt the gel (never in the microwave! Place it in a cup of hot water), then apply it. As it starts to harden, you can then paint and create your gore masterpieces.

[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.sillyfarm.com/store/index.php?p=product&id=4772&parent=0″ target=”on”]Get Mehron 3D Gelatin[/button]

[clear]

Ripped Chest with Special Effects MakeupZombie Skinned Spiderman with special effects makeup

Below are some of the main essentials that are popular during the Halloween season.

.thumbnail_list { width: 150px; text-align:center; display:inline-block; margin:25px;}
.thumbnail_list span { text-align:center;}
.thumbnail_list img { -webkit-border-radius: 15px; border-radius: 15px; text-decoration:none !important; border: 1px solid #C1C1C1;}
.thumbnail_list img:hover { -webkit-box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px 0px #bd1b8d; box-shadow: 0px 0px 5px 0px #bd1b8d;}

This is our busiest time of the year, so be proactive and stock up on your supplies now before supplies are limited.

If you need help with any of your ghoulish creations, please do not hesitate to contact me, “The Gore Queen”, at pam@sillyfarm.com.
Happy Haunting to all!!!!
-Pam

Check out Halloween Special Effects Tutorials on Youtube!

Syfy’s Face Off: Season 3 Premiere

Syfy's Face Off

Image Credit: FaceOff

If you haven’t heard of Face Off and are in the Face & Body Art, Makeup, or Special Effects industries, then you don’t know what you’re missing. The season 3 premiere starts tonight, August 21st at 9/8 central on the Syfy network!

Face Off is a competition by elimination TV series that brings the spotlight to the talent behind the special effects makeup industry. Contestants must battle their way through several challenges that incorporate; full body painting, 3-D design, sculpting, prosthetic use, casting and molding, and much more, or risk being sent home by the judges.

Several known face and body artists, such as Nix Herrera, Athena Zhe, and Matt Valentine have been contestants and competed for the grand prize, an opportunity to guest lecture at the Makeup For Ever Academy in New York, a 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid, and $100,000!

Face Off Season 3 Judges

Ve Neill
Three-time Academy Award winner, Ve Neill(Pirates of the Caribbean, Edward Scissorhands)
Glenn Hetrick IMDB Profile
Glenn Hetrick (Heroes, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The X-Files)
Patrick Tatopoulos IMDB Profile
Patrick Tatopoulos (Underworld, Independence Day, Resident Evil: Extinction)
[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.syfy.com/faceoff/contestants/alana_rose_schiro” target=”on” ]View Season 3 Contestants[/button]

Face Paint University – Orlando

Face Paint University - Dec. 3-7th Orlando
DATE: December 3-7th, 2012 (Mon – Fri)

This 5 day intensive workshop will cover EVERYTHING about face painting!! No it’s not a real university, but it might as well be since you will be getting so much face paint education while there!! We will go over supplies, line work, blending, girl designs, boy designs, marketing, self promotion, press kits, portfolios, and so much more!

Who should take this workshop?
This class is aimed towards beginners and those wanting to take their face painting to the next level. Still have trouble doing line work and blending? This class is for you too! If you lack confidence in your face paint skills or designs, this class is also for you! Walk in a beginner, leave a face painting powerhouse!

Three Master Instructors

Pashur
Pashur
Kerry Ann Smith
Kerry Ann Smith
Jay Bautista
Jay Bautista

Breakdown:

Monday Day 1: 10am – 5pm

  • The Basics – From Brushes to Brushstrokes!
  • Safety
  • Products (Sponge & Brushes, Face Paints, Products, etc)
  • Linework (Teardrops, Lines, Swirls, Tribals, etc)
  • Sponge Basics (Basing & Blending)
  • Color Theory
  • Facial Anatomy
  • Creating Depth Using Highlights & Shadows
  • Split Cakes
  • Tips & Tricks (Double Loading Shading, Drop Shadows, Leopard Spots, etc)

Tuesday Day 2: 10am – 5pm
15 Essential Girl Designs!!
Butterflies, Princess, Fairies, Flowers, Masks, Tiaras, Mermaids and more!

Wednesday Day 3: 10am – 5pm
15 Essential Boy Designs!! Monsters, Dragons, Zombies, Pirates, Ninjas, Puppy, Sharks, Spiders, Tigers and more!

Thursday Day 4: 10am – 5pm
15 More Cool Designs!!! Add more pizzazz with Roses, Glitter Jewelry, Eye Designs, Rock Star Eyes and more!

Friday Day 5: 10am – 5pm

  • Focus Groups: We will break up into 3 hands-on groups to focus on designs or techniques you might be struggling with.
  • Requests: Have a certain design you want to learn? Just ask.
  • Q&A : Ask questions about designs, techniques or the business.
  • Marketing & Promotions: We will cover how to promote yourself, what to charge, press kits, portfolios and so much more.
  • Face Paint Games and Creative Exercises.


Face Painting University Location:

Spring Hill Suites by Marriott Orlando Altamonte Springs
205 W. Highway 436
Altamonte Springs
Florida 32714 USA

Class Size: 30 Students Max

Sponge & Brush – Hands-on Experience

Age: You must be at least 15 years old to take this workshop.
Lunch: Lunch is included each day in workshop fee.
Cost: $500 – That’s only $100 per person, per day, for 3 amazing instructors!!

RSVP & Payment Deadlines:
Payment 1 $100 non-refundable deposit is due ASAP to reserve your spot.
Payment 2 $200 non-refundable payment is due by Sept 1, 2012.
Payment 3 $200 non-refundable balance is due by Nov 1, 2012.
Payment can be sent via PayPal to: PashurCreative@aol.com

Remember, only 30 spots available. They WILL go fast so sign up today!

Things to Bring:

  • Your face painting kit
  • Camera
  • Pen and paper

**Supplies are NOT covered in your workshop cost.**
Wow Factor Stuff will be on-site selling your favorite supplies at the workshop.

Lodging and Hotel:
SpringHill Suites Orlando Altamonte Springs (where the workshop will be held) has given us a room rate of $79 per night. The lodging fee is NOT covered in the workshop fee.

Spring Hill Suites Orlando Altamonte Spings
205 W. Highway 436
Altamonte Springs
Florida 32714 USA
407-865-6400

Hotel also has free Wi-Fi and indoor pool. Free Continental breakfast for guests staying at the hotel.

The location of the hotel allows for easy walking distance to multiple restaurants like, Wing House, McDonald’s, Longhorn Steakhouse, and convenient stores. It is just across the overpass from the Uptown Shopping Center and Altamonte Mall.

QUESTIONS? If you have any other questions, please be sure to drop us an email at: PashurCreative@aol.com

Show & Tell: Ultimate Sharing

FABAIC2011-Jam

The thing about sharing is you only think you are giving things away. But in many ways it all comes back to you and more, with people sharing back, and expansion of ideas and acts of kindness. You also feel good….and in some cases become someone’s hero or mentor!

The first year I went to FABAIC, I learned so much in class. And then I would go to lunch or to break or to a jam and I would talk to people. The people attending the convention also had so much to offer. I learned cool new marketing tips, saw new uses for tools, and new paint techniques and ideas. I knew there was a goldmine there if only we could tap it and showcase these people. I pitched the idea of Show & Tell to the FABAIC team and voila, we started something big!

For Show & Tell at FABAIC I request submissions from anyone with a great idea to share in the months leading up to FABAIC. By convention time, my presenters are set. Each year we have some of the best ideas that expand our knowledge, make our face painting life easier, and help us to promote our businesses even better.

Mary EarlOne of the first ideas presented at Show & Tell 2004 were split cakes. It’s a commonplace item in most people’s tool kits these days, but Mary Earl from Toronto, Ontario, Canada was the first to present it that I know of.

First split cakeThe idea of blending colours and double loading of brushes and paint applicators of all kinds has been around since man was painting on cave walls….but this was the first time this was seen within the face painting world, to the best of my knowledge. The response was amazing. Mary got a standing ovation for that idea.
[clear]
Now here is where it starts to get interesting. The next year, my dear friend (the late) Pat Newton had an idea to take split cakes and make them narrower, about the width of a one-inch brush. She used empty round paint pots and only put in stripes of paint until the multi-colour blend was one inch wide. Then she added a strip of craft foam along either side of the outside colours, and filled in the outer edges of the round pot with kid’s clay. Later she found oblong pots that were just one inch wide.

See how the idea was taken a step further? Then later still, Rebecca of Arty Brush really started promoting the idea with lots of various colour combos and the whole idea really took off thanks to her diligence in demonstrating and sharing her techniques and painting style.

This is just one example of what happens when we share. In future blogs I will share more of the amazing tips and tricks we’ve seen at FABAIC over the years.

-Katie

Spotlight Artist – Matt Valentine

FABAtv LIVE Class with Matt Valentine


Spotlight Artist Matt Valentine


Matt Valentine Banner

Tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?
I hail from Austin, Tx. Standing 6’1, weighing in at 175 pounds. A sugary sweet, scrumbdidlyumptious, gooey, nougat center with a hard, creepy, candy shell.

Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?
I am a full time artist. I run my own FX studio, Global Fear Enterprises. We offer FX make-up, Conceptual design, Props, Set Design, Graphic Design, Video Production and Costuming.

What type of face and body art do you specialize in?
I’m versed in theatrical and realistic body art but my forte is prosthetics and full body make-up FX.

Matt Valentine Face and Body Art

How did you get your start (in face and body art)?
I’ve been an artist since I can remember. Always altering my toys to become something great and terrible.
Being raised religious, we weren’t allotted the sinful, decadent vices of MTV, cartoons or Halloween. Through psychology we all know you become what you fear and are denied.
I actually got my first taste in church at the tender painful age of 15. Traumatized by preaching of tribulation and revelation yet attracted at the same time.
While kneeling and praying, our pastor asked us to pray and ask God for direction in our life.
Not a second later, I heard what can only be described as a horrifying yet peaceful rush of words whispering in my ear my name. This happened twice. I took this as a sign and a purpose.
A sort of holy calling to save something. A few months later I was chosen to play a demon in a church play and for the first time, I felt a paint caked brush touch my innocent check.
Dawned in white and black grease paint with a black cap, I felt comfortable in my skin for the first time. As I stepped on that stage hearing and feeling the audiences fear, I knew then what my calling was.
I’m on a sort of mission from God and you are most like him when you create something, no matter how vile and terrible it may be.

Matt Valentine's Mr Sprinkle PussWhat’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?
I enjoy the emotional primal response I get from my audience from viewing my work. Touching your viewer on an emotional level, whether it be through social propaganda, comedy, love or fear
is the ultimate purpose of a great artist. Every artist is a thief and every artist is a cannibal.

Do you attend any conventions, like the FABAIC?
Unfortunately I have not attended FABAIC. I do attend Monsterpalooza, Transworld and other various horror and make-up conventions.

What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?
I would love to get into filmmaking. I actually directed a few short films before I got into the make-up industry.
Some personal, intimate home made adult and some on a bigger scale for mass audience consumption.
I also have acted in a few indie films and would love to get back into the world of, looking good while you lie.

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?
Believe it or not I like to pride myself on my vocal range. I used to be in a band years ago as singer and keyboards. I’m considering getting back into making music.
I’ve been told I resemble a gothic Justin Bieber or a dark Neil Diamond.
I love to read and research history. I have an unquenchable thirst and fascination with Social Engineering, Global Domination through Eugenics and esoteric knowledge.

Do you have any pet peeves?
The word impossible, Television, mainstream acceptance and compromise.

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?
I see myself spreading my tentacles into the music industry, directing and I’ve always had an interest in politics.

Do you have any projects going on or in the works?
I currently am on a nationwide tour with my Make-up FX workshops. I also have a few films I will be working on in the near future.
TV treatments in the works and a few hush, hush projects under wraps that if I spoke on, I would have the elder lodge members knock my degree position down and force me to recite
my past blackmail secrets, naked in a wooden coffin, in front of Henry Kissinger and the skull of Aleister Crowley.
We also continue to offer our costume and mask line through my studio, Global Fear Enterprises.

What do you think of FABAtv?
I think FABAtv is a phenominal platform for artists to expose their work to the masses and benefit those at home just getting into the industry.
It’s an amazing learning tool for new artists to add to their repertoire.

Global Fear Enterprises


matt valentine poster augustMatt Valentine everyone. Sounds like I might have to get my Halloween costume from you.

Visit his websites at www.globalfearenterprises.com and www.mattvalentinefx.com.

Follow Matt on Facebook.com/MattValentineFX and Twitter.com/mattvalentinefx.

Contact him by e-mail via sales@globalfearenterprises.com

Last, but not least, Matt Valentine will be doing a free live class on FABAtv, August 14th, 2012, starting at 8:00pm EST! Check out the FABAtv LIVE page for more details.

Global Fear Enterprises

Pert Plus: “Don’t Be An Animal”

Pert Plus Body Paint Campaign

This summer, PERT PLUS has sponsored a unique digital spot featuring Playboy models painted like animals. This dovetails with their “Don’t be an Animal” advertising campaign that launches in July.

Donna Hofstee, Nelly Recchia and Lisa Berczel spent nearly six hours turning the models into their inner animal with the help of their assistants. The transformation consisted of skilled airbrushing and detailed hand painting using Cosmetic Airbrush Paint by European Body Art, Grex Airbrush tools and WolfeFX face paint. The shoot was produced by Tim Gibbs and photographed by Jared Ryder, both members of Playboy Plus staff. Gibbs and Ryder conceptualized the stylistic direction of the shoot along with the artists to create this awe-inspiring campaign. The team was also joined by Joanna Joy Gershenson, who did the hair and makeup for the models, and Raul Hernandez who shot the behind the scenes footage and time lapse video.

Pert Plus has made each image available to download as a desktop background, just click on the image and you’ll be taken to the official page.

Renee Pert Plus Winner
Renee 2 - Pert PlusInstincts - Pert PlusDecker 2 - Pert Plus
Decker 1 - Pert PlusAleksander 2 - Pert PlusAleksander 1 - Pert Plus

The models featured are Leanna Decker (Leopard), Christina Renee (Tiger) and Sascha Aleksander (Zebra). All of the women have posed for Playboy’s online Cyber Club as a Cyber Girl of the Week.

Paint-A-Thon Schedule

Paint-A-Thon for Brian Wolfe

Silly Farm Supplies and FABAtv are hosting a Paint-A-Thon fundraiser on July 23rd, 2012 starting at 3:00pm EST for Brian Wolfe. Brian has been an influential part of the face and body art industry and has been diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer. Heather wrote an article about Brian Wolfe earlier in the week, please check it out and if you are able, please donate to help Brian’s fight.

Remember to tune in for seven (7) hours of LIVE and FREE face and body art classes!
[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.fabatv.com/page/live” target=”on” ]Tune in to the Paint-A-Thon[/button]
Paint-A-Thon Artist Time
Introduction Michael Dardant 3:00pm – 3:15pm
Class 1: Mystical Masks Jay Bautista 3:15pm – 4:15pm
Announcements Michael Dardant 4:15pm – 4:30pm
Class 2: Lace & Plaid Lisa Marshall 4:30pm – 5:30pm
Announcements Michael Dardant 5:30pm – 5:45pm
Class 3: Graphic T-Shirt Design Jeff Simon 5:45pm – 6:45pm
Commercial Break 6:45pm – 7:15pm
Class 4: Simply Creative Margi Kanter 7:15pm – 8:15pm
Announcements Michael Dardant 8:15pm – 8:30pm
Class 5: Gore with Zombie Skin Pam Trent 8:30pm – 9:30pm
Magic Show & Ending Michael Dardant 9:30pm – 10:00pm

Paint-A-Thon for Brian Wolfe

Paint-A-Thon for Brian Wolfe
One of the reasons I love this industry so much is because when we need a helping hand, we come together and help one another. As many of you know by now, Brian Wolfe was diagnosed with a very aggressive Pancreatic Cancer. This news shocked our world and face and body art land went into help mode! So far our generous industry has helped raise over $40,000 for Brian to receive treatment and to help his family, but we won’t stop there…

Nick and Brian Wolfe

Gary Cole of Snazaroo.us has organized a contest to help raise funds for Brian. To find out more information about helping Brian and possibly winning over $3,000 in prizes please contact garycole@mindspring.com

There is also a special page set up on FaceBook at http://www.facebook.com/BrianWolfesFight and GoFundMe at http://www.gofundme.com/brianwolfe where you can contribute directly to the Wolfe Family as well.

Because Brian is a HUGE part of the Family, we are hosting a special Paint-A-Thon in his honor. On July 23, 2012 FABAtv is hosting another Paint-A-Thon where we will join forces with instructors like Margi Kanter, Jay Bautista, Pam Trent, Marcela Murad, Lisa Marshall and more to bring you 6 hours of FREE LIVE face and body art classes. In addition to the free learning, we will be giving away prizes, and celebrating all that Brian Wolfe has given to the Face and body art industry.

Brian Wolfe's FABAtv Channel

Michael DardantWe will begin broadcasting with special host Magic Mike at 3:00pm EST and the fun will begin. Classes will run live until 10:00pm est. Our hope is to raise awareness and money for the Wolfe family to help them bring peace and comfort to Brian Wolfe during this difficult time.

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://www.gofundme.com/brianwolfe” target=”on” ]Donate to Brian Wolfe[/button]
[clear]

One person, can make a dent… our industry can make a difference. Join us live July 23, at 3:00 pm EST!

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://fabatv.com” target=”on” ]Tune in to FABAtv LIVE July 23rd[/button]

The Wolfe Pack

Nick and Brian Wolfe
Twelve years ago I had the pleasure of meeting two of the world’s best artists. My aunt treated me to my first official face painting workshop (not taught by her or a clown friend) in Daytona Florida. I remember driving to Daytona so excited because I was going to learn from Nick and Brian Wolfe. That class not only changed my life, but it was the turning point of when I knew that I would make a career of face and body art. My aunt had always told me that one day I would own Silly Farm Supplies, but it wasn’t until Nick and Brian Wolfe exposed me to a new world that I realized the potential face and body art could create.

I’m sure many of you share my same experience. I credit much of the success, growth, and creativity of the face and body art world to the Kings of the biz, Nick and Brian Wolfe. Over the past decade they have given selflessly of themselves, shared every image, painted every face, explored new boundaries, and never stopped smiling along the way.


Nick and Brian Wolfe MIB BodypaintBrian Wolfe Body Paint with World Brian Wolfe Zombie Body Paint

Wolfe Brothers Special Effects
When I started FABAtv, I called on Nick and Brian and asked for help and support. They immediately jumped in their car and drove to my side. No matter how busy or how stressful life got, they never missed a FABAIC and you could reach them night or day on their cell to call in a favor.

Above and beyond being generous, Nick and Brian are two of the most positive people I know. When it seems like the world is falling down, they stand up and smile and share their light with us. I have witnessed them teach an 8-hour class and still smile, share, and welcome new friends.
[clear]
Last week, it broke my heart to hear that Brian Wolfe was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer. Brian is a father, son, brother, friend, mentor and husband. This news hit me so hard all I could do was cry at my desk. I didn’t know whether to call Brian and Nick, get angry, or just focus on why bad things happen to good people. So, I mustered up enough strength to call Brian and upon hearing his voice a sigh of relief came over me. Brian’s attitude was optimistic, jovial, and he reminded me why no matter the outcome of his treatment, he will never be forgotten.

//
Brian is beginning treatment this week and he needs our help. Brian is facing this scary time in his life without insurance to cover the necessary treatments. His family and friends have established a donation fund to help raise funds to support him and his family during this difficult time. We are also planning a Paint-A-Thon on FABAtv where 100% of the proceeds will go to the Brian Wolfe family. The Paint-A-Thon will be held July 23rd from 3pm-10pm EST. If you can afford to, please donate to the Wolfe family, help keep our Wolfe Pack alive and strong with your prayers and your support.

The face and body art industry would not be where it is at without Nick and Brian Wolfe. They transcended the art of face painting from balloons on the cheek to if you can dream it we can paint it. Please share the link, send Brian an email, card, or just keep him and his family in your prayers and thoughts. Prayer works and together we can share the same love and positivity he has given to us over the years.
-Heather


Monster BrosNick & Brian WolfeNick & Brian Wolfe Body Painting

Mortal Kombat Body Painting by Wolfe BrothersWolfe Pack


Check out Nick or Brian on facebook.
Contact Nick or Brian Wolfe or browse their works via their website, EvilTwinFX.com

Spotlight – Rainbow Cake Winner

Rainbow Cake Dragonfly

[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.sillyfarm.com/store/index.php?p=product&id=5296&parent=367″ target=”on” ]Get the Dragonfly Rainbow Cake[/button]

A month ago we launched a contest called the Rainbow Cake Creation Contest, brought to you by the Faba Blog and Silly Farm Supplies. We want to thank everyone for their amazing entries, we finally narrowed the choices down and the winner of a custom rainbow cake and a $25 gift certificate to Silly Farm Supplies is… Kristen Zamora with her rainbow cake design, Dragonfly! Congratulations!

Keep reading for our interview with Kristen and her face painting company, KarzPaintz.


Interview with Kristen Zamora

KarzPaintz
Toucans by Kristen of KarzPaintzMotorcycle by Kristen of KarzPaintzMinions by Kristen of KarzPaintz

Tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?
My name is Kristen Zamora and I have been face painting off and on for about four years. I started face painting when I lived in Fort Lauderdale Florida for “Happy and Grumpy the Clowns”. It’s there that I learned that I enjoyed face painting, but after moving back to my home town, Paw Paw, Michigan, I learned face painting was my passion.

Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?
I never thought I would be starting my own face painting business. When I moved back to Michigan I soon had my son Alex and at that time I wasn’t even thinking of face painting. It was almost three years before I picked up a brush again professionally (not volunteering in the community) and painted another face. I started my business KarzPaintz in January 2012. We do face painting, glitter tattoos, I am a professional clown, and we are also starting a new endeavor into balloon animals. Face painting is what I want to do full-time but for the time being I work part-time at a bank with some really awesome and supportive co-workers. I couldn’t do this without the loving support of my awesome and handsome husband Raul.

What do you enjoy most from what you do?
My favorite part of face painting are definitely the kids. They are so funny! I love it , as soon as I hand them the mirror they have a grin from ear to ear. They usually thank me, but I always thank them for being my awesome little models and letting me take the time to paint them. I’ve learned how to paint with them talking because I am always asking them 1,000 questions. I like to get to know the kids because I appreciate what they do for me. They are the foundation of my business and they make me feel confident in what I can do as well. Not to mention they’re stinking hilarious!

Do you attend any conventions, like the FABAIC?
Ugh convention, I missed it this year but I need to go next year! Since they are having it in Fort Lauderdale again I can take some time to also spend with the family and friends that I have down there. It made me really sad that we couldn’t afford to go, but I can’t wait to go 2013, I won’t miss it!

Have you watched any FABAtv?
Since I missed the FABAIC, I subscribed to FABAtv, and I absolutely LOVE IT. I have learned so many things from all the amazing artists. FABAtv allows people like me to have a mentor teaching me and be “self taught” but it’s like having a mentor when I cannot have one locally. The business advice in the blogs help to guide my business, especially for someone who is honestly just “winging it” sometimes. This is an amazing resource and has proven to be invaluable to the expansion of by business. Thank you FABAtv. The most helpful part of the blog to me is the “on the job” experience examples and how to come through a difficult situation in a composed and professional manner. This is a big help to me personally because I do work out of my home at the moment.

Anything else you would like to mention?
Having the opportunity to create a rainbow cake is a memorable experience and I can’t wait to start using my creation. Thank you for allowing us to share our creativity. I can’t wait for more opportunities to participate in other contest. If there are any opportunities in Michigan let me know!


Kristen KarzPaintz DolphinEyeDesign by Kristen of KarzPaintzFlamingo by Kristen of KarzPaintz

You can check out Kirsten’s work and her company information, KarzPaintz, below.


Find KarzPaintz on Facebook!
Find KarzPaintz on Twitter!
The KarzPaintz website, www.karzpaintz.com, will be up soon!
Contact KarzPaintz by Email.
Prefer to call? Contact KarzPaintz by phone: (269) 501-1451

Spotlight Artist – Lisa Marshall

Lisa Marshall free LIVE class on FABAtv
Our latest Spotlight Artist, Lisa Marshall, is doing a free FABAtv LIVE class on Thursday, July 12th, 2012 starting at 8:00pm EST. Don’t miss it! Click the banner for more info!


Spotlight Artist Lisa Marshall

Multi Colored Swirl by Lisa Marshall Face Painted Jewelry by Lisa Marshall Face Painted Mask by Lisa Marshall

Tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?
Comox B.C., Canada

Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?
Part-Time Artist and a Full time Mom

What type of face and body art do you specialize in?
Lace/Gems/3D

How did you get your start(in face and body art)?

I bought a Paradise Prisma Pro Palette and just started practicing everyday until I was confident to paint others. I have been a painter for many years, but decided to try a new medium and dove right into the Face & Body Art world.

What’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?
I love to explore new ideas and teach what I learn to fellow painters. I hope to inspire them, as they have for me. I also like to watch the faces of people around me as I create a design…and when I hand them the mirror!!! Whether its a scary or pretty design, I love to hear them say “WOW!”

Do you attend any conventions, like the FABAIC?
I have attended the 2012 Face and Body Art International Convention and hope to be back next year!

What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?
I would love to learn how to create prosthetics, plus do more full body painting and professional make-up.

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?
I love the beach, bike riding and live music!

Do you have any pet peeves?
When I’m practicing and my cat comes along and tries to chew the end of my brush…haha.

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?
The sky is the limit, and I would love to travel and teach.

Do you have any projects going on or in the works?
I always have SOMETHING in the works… 😉 I do a lot of sketching, painting, and I am trying to develop some new product ideas.

What do you think of FABAtv?
The first time I tuned into FABATV, I couldn’t believe my eyes, there were so many classes and I didn’t know what to watch first!!! It only made me want to paint MORE! It’s fantastic that there are skilled painters offering to teach you their tricks, because when you are new to the industry, it’s nice to have a place to go and look up new ideas, techniques, and designs to help you expand your skill set!


Want to contact Lisa or see more examples of her work?
You can visit Lisa’s website at http://silvercordcreations.webs.com

Like her page or contact her through Silver Cord Creations on Facebook.
Email her at silvercordcreations@hotmail.com

Don’t forget to tune in July 12th at 8:00 pm EST for a free LIVE class on FABAtv.com with Lisa Marshall!

Free Body Painting Class with Athena Zhe – FABAtv

Free Body Painting Class with Athena Zhe

Vegas Theme Bodypaint by Athena ZheJoin Face Off contestant Athena Zhe on June 14th, 2012 on FABAtv LIVE for her free, live class on how to create body painting designs. This class will show you where to begin in your body painting career, how to design a body painting piece suitable for any occasion, give you insight on being prepared to meet your client’s needs, and how to work with different body types.
[clear]

flag bodypainting by Athena Zhe

Athena Zhe free body painting class

[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”https://fabatv.com/page/live”]Watch on FABAtv LIVE![/button]
[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/fixedtime.html?p1=820&iso=20120614T20&msg=FABAtv%20LIVE%20with%20Athena%20Zhe%20-%20FREE%20Body%20Painting%20Class&sort=1″ target=”on” ]Find out the show time in your timezone![/button]

From Average to Amazing

After enjoying an amazing week together with so many wonderful artists I came to the realization that what all of us really want is to be the best that we can be. The question then becomes, “How do we go from ordinary to extraordinary?

FABAIC - Lynne Jamieson

Like many of you, I too felt a tad intimidated by the level of the artwork being produced at the face and body art international convention, in books, trade magazines and just about everywhere I look. I almost didn’t want to take out my paints at the jams, but then I knew that every step I take to improve is a step forward and that is all that is required to achieve success. For example, if we want to paint in the style and the level of our favorite artist, it is not enough to admire their artwork. You must do something! Take a class, search for online tutorials, study what it is they do and discern why their art pulls on our heart strings.

Don’t worry about the long term goal, the joy is in the journey. To go from an average painter to an amazing artist, all we need is small steps taken one day at a time, lots of practice, and a belief that you can achieve any dream you have!

-Marcela Murad

FABAIC 2012 Recap

We just wrapped up the 11th annual Face and Body Art International Convention. The FABAIC hosts over 500 of the world’s most talented and artistically charged painters. Every year we come together, paint, learn about new products, attend classes, and catch up with old friends and many times make new friends!

FABAIC 2012

This year was a challenge. After hosting the last 10 years of the FABAIC in Orlando, we made a bold decision to move the venue closer to our home. We bit our nails for a full year hoping that the move wouldn’t hurt the FABAIC or worse, that the hotel wouldn’t accept us for who we are.

As the FABAIC festivities came to an end, I literally found myself in a daze. I didn’t know whether to smile and jump for joy because we successfully conquered another year, or cry because I was so amazed at the overall event. It takes us a full year to plan everything about the FABAIC, from vendors, to pipe and drape, to the menu, and an airport shuttle. We scream, fight, and sometimes leave work hating each other because the stress can be overwhelming, but after this FABAIC, I cried tears of pure joy.

FABAIC 2012 - Lizard GirlNix Herrera - FABAIC 2012

This year was my personal favorite. There was a happiness in the air, a relaxed vibe that placed a trance on the event. I watched over 400 artists paint with delight, share without hesitation, focus on teamwork, and enthusiastically learn from one another. Most everyone left their ego at the door and embraced the artistic climate of the event.

My overall highlight of the FABAIC was the Bollywood Flash Mob. Secretly we arranged a flash mob including instructors, kids, and vendors. Nothing made my smile bigger than seeing the children dance to the music, the watch Jinny join in, followed by the Wolfe Brothers and Magic Mike doing the Jai Ho. It was priceless and reminded me why the face and body art family is something truly unique.

I have to admit that my opinion is slightly biased. As the producer of the convention, I naturally felt that we did a super job. As a consumer, an eager artist, and an entrepreneur, I still felt we hit the nail on the head with the lineup of classes, the overall selection of brands and products represented, the events that took place, and the value I received by attending. When we plan the FABAIC we start by asking ourselves questions from every angle. We ask each other questions about schedules, and learning, we search the internet for hot products and sought after artists, we channel our inner child and build a Young Artists program that will groom our future painters. We leave no stone unturned, and cross every T. This is our life and our love drives the FABAIC to new heights every year.

FABAIC 2012 - Jay Bautista
FABAIC 2012 - Sean AvramFABAIC 2012 - DonnaFABAIC 2012 - Mehron

On Sunday, we hosted the Annual Body Painting competition. It was remarkable. The artwork was too amazing to believe that these artists finished a full award worthy living canvas in under 6 hours. I declined the invitation to judge the competition because the talent was too much to handle. As I walked around the room, I was so happy to see how far our industry has come. The artwork and talent soars to new heights every year and I am grateful we can play a part in making that happen.

The FABAIC can only be described as sleep away art camp. Artists come together to party, paint, and enjoy an environment of learning. Artists use the FABAIC as a retreat, they invest in themselves and their businesses with the mindset that they will leave a better, more experienced artist and they are right!

FABAIC 2012 - KidsFABAIC 2012 - JoselynFABAIC 2012

I could go on and on forever about the convention, but instead I will dedicate my next few blogs to certain sections of the FABAIC and encourage your feedback. I thank each of you from the bottom of my heart for your support with Silly Farm, FABAtv, FABAIC, FABAblog, and FAB Events.
Happy Painting!

To view all the amazing photos from the 2012 FABAIC please visit the FABAIC facebook page or website.

One Big Family

Silly Farm Supplies, FABAtv, FABAIC, My FAB Events
As many of you know by now, Silly Farm Supplies, FABAtv, the FABAIC, and My FAB Events are the culmination of a family owned business that keeps expanding. The running joke in our office is that “everyone is heather’s best friend, and she calls everyone her family”. This is a true statement.

Maybe it’s the Pisces in me or maybe because I am a part of a loving industry, but my friends become my family and I take pleasure in how large my family has become.

Heather Green - Kelly Virgona The beautiful Kelly Virgona from Australia is in town for the 11th annual FABAIC. She is staying with me and this morning she said “Can you believe this Is my 6th year here at the FABAIC”. I was blown away at how fast time flies and how Kelly is no longer a customer, no longer a friend, now she is my fairy god sister! The same goes for Annie Reynolds, Lynne Jamieson, Kay B, Mark Reid and the entire FAB family.

Over the years we have witnessed each other grow as artists, master new techniques, question our ability to make it as a struggling artist, and lift each other up when we need it the most. For me, that defines what a family is. The face and body art family is made up of a group of people that share a love of art and when we get together and jam, creatively collect our ideas, paint and produce works of art, we become closer.

Marcela Face PaintingLia and Taija

People often ask me, “How is it working with family?”. Together with my mother (the CFO), Marcela (CCO), my little sister (OM), best friend (Director of FABAtv), and the rest of my extended family, we operate 4 businesses together. Not only is it stressful, it is the most rewarding career one could ask for. I get to work closely with the people that understand my passion and enable me to do a great job. The same can be said for my extended family of farmers, Silly Farmers.

Silly Farmers

My rule of thumb in business is to make your customers your friends, so that it is always a pleasure doing business with a friend. My friends become my family and my family continues to bloom. If you are attending the FABAIC, I encourage you to make a friend, introduce yourself, make a connection and grow your own little face painting family.

The Brat Pack

Rainbow Cake Queen

Tiger Design using Juicy Fruit RC I am not very active on Facebook or internet forums. As my business grew, my window to enjoy staring at gorgeous images on the internet slipped away. Every now and then I get the chance to drool at my screen and get excited about seeing the amazing work my fellow painters are doing. Recently, very colorful images have been filling my inbox. The images were so much fun and exciting, they made me get more excited about the rainbow cakes I spend hours creating. As a special bonus we’re introducing a new contest for you to have your very own rainbow cake combination made by Silly Farm Supplies!

Laura Oliver - Eye Design with Neon RainbowLaura Oliver - Floral Design
[clear]
I spend countless hours creating the perfect color combinations for the Silly Farm rainbow cakes. I take a lot of pride in seeing what other painters create with the combinations I put together. Believe it or not, we hand make each rainbow cake. We have a little factory at Silly Farm where we mold, cut and arrange all the rainbow and arty cakes. You might ask, “Why?” when we can send them overseas to be made for a fraction of the cost. The reason is because we control the quality, colors, and can change them up at any time. I’m neurotic about giving my customers no less than what I would expect from a retailer. My little rainbow / arty cake factory employs 6 people who love creating something that face painters use to do a great job. Laura Oliver is living proof.

I have been following Laura online and watching her post pictures, using a variety of Silly Farm rainbow and arty cakes, and I was so impressed that I wanted to write a blog about her. I admire her for many reasons.

  1. She shares her work with others to learn and enjoy
  2. She answers questions when asked and gives selfless answers
  3. She creates from the heart. She isn’t paid by Silly Farm, but she genuinely has fun painting and creating those smiles.
  4. She isn’t afraid of putting herself out there and hearing the feedback about her work.

Laura Oliver - Butterfly Design with Juicy Fruit RC
Laura Oliver - Butterfly Design Laura Oliver - Latina Lovely Laura Oliver - Give me your small animals!

A lot of us fear rejection or disapproval. It is that fear of rejection that prohibits us from sharing our work and growing. Laura takes a chance and by sharing she is able to inspire others, encourage those struggling with cakes to try something new, and opens herself to helping others. That is what made me love our industry so much and that is why I make my YouTube face painting videos. Paying it forward helps build a village, we can always accomplish more when you are willing to G.L.U.E. (Giving Little Unexpected Extras) yourself to our industry.

Thank you Laura for sharing, you inspire me to keep on pumping out rainbow cakes!

Happy Painting!

-Heather

Bonus! Rainbow Cake Creation Contest

Rainbow Cake Creation ContestWe need some help coming up with new rainbow cake designs. Are you a painter that mix n’ matches their cakes, always coming up with the perfect color schemes? Then this contest is for you.
The rules are simple and the submission is straight forward. Send us your own rainbow cake color combinations and if we choose it, we will start manufacturing it and send you a free rainbow cake along with a $25 gift certificate to Silly Farm Supplies![clear]

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://www.fabablog.com/rainbow-cake-contest/” target=”on” ]Take me to the Rainbow Cake Creation Contest![/button]

Good Luck and don’t forget to like and share this post!

Networking

Join us at the 2012 FABAIC

As we seek higher achievements and greater success, others can help us. As a matter of fact, some will take pleasure in doing so as long as they feel that we are trustworthy and deserving of their help. This is why it is important to understand that it is not only having connections, but keeping in contact with them and providing value to them that will make them effective.

The FABAIC offers a unique opportunity to network within your industry. Attending the convention allows you to connect with painters in your area, manufacturers of face and body art supplies, photographers and models.
To make the best of your networking at FABAIC bring with you the following:

Attitude
The twin of friendly is smiley and since most people like to do business with their friends, the most important tool you have is your smile. Remember that we only have one chance to give a good impression. Everything from our hair to our shoes is an indicator of who we are. The way we communicate and the way we are perceived by others depends much on a positive attitude and the ability to look at someone in the eye. Doing so displays confidence.

FABAIC Fun

Business cards
Never leave home without business cards in your pocket. I also carry a business card size portfolio that I can show along with my business cards once the conversation about face and body painting gets going. A picture says a thousand words and because our business is so unique, having them on hand to illustrate our point hooks people into wanting to know more.
Check out this Faba Blog article on Business Cards for more information on making the perfect card for your business.

Enthusiasm
The secret to success in networking is being prepared to engage another person in a way that they will be interested in you and what you do. Whatever you tell people, be proud of it and be enthusiastic about it. It helps to write down a 30 second introductory commercial for yourself and your services that can be used over an over as a key to open the doors that lead to success.

Face Painting Business

Make a commitment to network and grow your business. At FABAIC we offer an extensive marketing track to help you learn more so you can earn more. Not only are there classes for networking, the whole convention is full of possible new networks and business opportunities. Allow us to help you succeed.
-Marcela

The FABAIC – Face and Body Art International Convention is being held May 23rd-27th, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center and Spa in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
Website: http://www.fabaic.com

Spotlight Artist – Andrea O’Donnell

Tell us a little about yourself, where are you from?

Andrea O'Donnell - Makeup Artist, Face & Body Artist
I am a Michigander through and through. I was born here, grew up here, and I now raise my two children here. I love my home state so much, the four seasons, the trees, the hills, the gorgeous great lakes. Michigan is a beautiful state, and I am lucky enough to have a home in Howell where I live and work, and also a cottage in the deep northern woods, where I have appreciated and absorbed Mother Nature’s works of art since I was just a year old. Of all the places I have traveled (and that’s a lot), Northern Michigan is still my favorite place in the world.
[clear]

Are you an artist full time or do you have another job?

I am a full time artist (too full sometimes) and I run a very busy studio in Howell, Michigan, which is centrally located between four of Michigan’s largest cities; Detroit, Ann Arbor, Lansing and Flint. It’s a small town, but a great location, and it keeps my staff and I very busy providing makeup and cosmetic services, event services, photography and so much more. It’s also a retail store for makeup, special fx and face & body art supplies, mainly geared toward the professional market, but open to the public as well.

Andrea O'Donnell Studio BackAndrea O'Donnell Studio Front

What type of face and body art do you specialize in?

I have been a professional makeup artist for 23 years, the first 15 years were spent primarily on bridal and special event makeup in the salon/spa environment. For the past 8 years I have gravitated more toward creative editorial, high fashion and couture makeup for commercial makeup shoots and runway events, and face painting for kids parties. Now I would estimate that 80% of what I do consists of body painting both in and outside of my studio, which makes me very happy!

Marilyn Monroe Look by Andrea O'DonnellCircus Body - Andrea O'Donnell at FABAICTea Cup Body Painting by Andrea O'Donnell

How did you get your start?

I got my start in face & body art after nearly quitting makeup altogether from sheer boredom! After what seemed like a lifetime of brides and prom girls, I was dying to inject more creativity into my work. So I actually stepped away from makeup for a short period, and opened an art store where I taught painting classes and sold art supplies. At some point during that time period, I found myself in Disney World with my kids, mesmerized at the face painting that was being applied to my daughter. I took photos and mental notes, and when I got home I tried my hand at face painting – using all the wrong products of course. Nevertheless, myself and two of my friends set up a face painting table in front of my art store during a Harry Potter festival in my town and made over $1000 charging only $3 per face in about 3-4 hours! The line was wrapped around the block! When the night was over we all looked at each other in shock! The offers started pouring in from parents, schools, and local businesses who saw our work that night, and I started thinking; What the heck was I doing running this art store and barely squeaking by with the bills month after month? I should be painting faces for a living! So when the store closed down the following year in 2005, I went back to what I did best, Makeup, but this time I had a whole new attitude. I did my research and found out what products I should be using, and immediately set out to create a whole new and much more colorful makeup portfolio! A couple years later I became one of the most sought after makeup artists in Michigan and right about that time is when I upgraded my title permanently to Makeup Artist, Face & Body Painter.

What’s the most enjoyable part of what you do?

The most enjoyable part of what I do? Oh there is SO much I love about my job, but I would probably have to say my favorite is the travel. This job has provided me and my family with so much opportunity to see the world. It’s not easy to get to that point. I’m not saying that every face and body painter is going to start flying all over the place. There are a lot of artists who don’t ever leave their immediate area, and that is perfectly fine for them. I suffer from a thing called wanderlust. I have to constantly feed my mind with new experiences and for me that means traveling to new places. So I have specifically “trained” my career in such a way that I am able to do what I love in many places, whether it’s teaching workshops in other states, providing services for films and conventions, selling my product (Bad Ass Stencils) at various trade shows around the globe, or whatever else takes me away. I just love to be on the move, almost as much as I love coming back home.

Andrea O'Donnell Bird DesignStencils on BackAndrea O'Donnell Painting Marilyn Design

What would you like to do more of, art or otherwise?

I would love to be able to find more time to take tons of classes in all the other areas and topics that I am interested in, such as art, photography, glass blowing, jewelry design, major special fx makeup courses and more. I also want to learn as many foreign languages as I can, including sign language, so I can travel around the world and explore historical landmarks, castles, villages, and ruins and know how to communicate freely with everyone I come in contact with! Wouldn’t that be awesome?

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?

Outside of my fun job and traveling, fun for me always involves my family. We have a nice big family and many good friends, and we are all very close. We enjoy riding motorcycles and ATV’s in our woods up north, kayaking, paintball, hiking, playing with our dogs, and pretty much anything else as long as we are together.

Do you have any pet peeves?

Pet peeves? Arrogant photographers with over blown egos and underwhelming portfolios, flaky “models” who should really not be modeling, parents who try to force crying kids to get face painted and/or want to choose their design for them, and would-be clients who don’t realize and/or appreciate the value of what we do after wasting our time asking questions and getting quotes, and then hiring someone cheap, especially for high quality body painting. I’m not the same thing as Joe Schmoe with a paint brush that they saw at a Harley Fest last summer… not even close. I think that last one is everyone’s pet peeve.

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?

A couple years from now, I would like to see myself having more time to relax in between jobs. Right now I am a little overwhelmed between the studio work, teaching classes, event jobs, trade shows, and now the Hunger Games Convention Tour, but I’m not complaining… just looking forward to a time when it balances out a bit more for me, hopefully sooner than later. My dream would be to do a few big magazine photo shoot jobs on a tropical island two or three times a year, some fun local jobs in between, and just party and travel the rest of the year!

Do you have any projects going on or in the works?

My current major project is SKINCOGNITO and all that revolves around it. In addition to that, I am super busy designing a load of new Bad Ass Stencils in time for the Face and Body Art International Convention, designing my body paint competition piece, and preparing for the World Body Painting Festival in Austria this July. I am also the exclusive makeup artist for the new Official Hunger Games Tour, which I know will keep me movin’ for the next couple years.

Join us at the 2012 FABAIC

Will you be attending the 2012 Face and Body Art International Convention?

I am SO looking forward to seeing all of my favorite friends and artists at the 2012 FABAIC! I hope everyone comes by to see me at the Bad Ass Stencil booth as well as at the jams. It is such a fun and inspirational event, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world!

Contact Andrea:
Skincognito Studio
120 State Street
Howell, MI 48843, USA
Phone: (517) 376.6488
Email: SkincognitoStudio@yahoo.com
Website: www.SkincognitoStudio.com
Skincognito’s Facebook Page

www.BadAssStencils.com
Bad Ass Stencils on Facebook

Andrea O’Donnell Artist Facebook Page

Check out Andrea O’Donnell on FABAtv!

FABAtv vs. FABAIC – Should I do Both?

FABAtv vs FABAIC

When I first dreamed up the idea of FABAtv, I immediately called my aunt and business partner, Marcela. I was so excited, because like most of my crazy ideas, she gets them and gives me great input to get the ball rolling. At first, I heard the hesitation in her voice. I knew her thoughts before she got a chance to voice them. She was worried that FABAtv would take away from the face and body art international convention. After all, why would people attend the convention if they could log on from their own home and take classes whenever they wanted to? Why would anyone want to pay for flights, hotel, registration, ect, if they could save time and money and learn on their own schedule?

FABAIC FunFABAIC Winning Cheetah

Of course these thoughts ran through my mind when I set out to create FABAtv, but my belief is that FABAtv would be a way to fill in the gap before and after the convention. FABAtv is the most practical and beneficial resource we have for painters. The classes are powerful, exciting, and fresh. Every month we offer new classes to inspire you. The FABAIC is a face and body art sleep away camp. It is a vacation for the mind, a creative retreat, and a way to meet the FABAtv instructors that teach you all year long.

FABAIC Alex HansenSo the question is, “Why?” and, “Do I need to have both FABAtv and FABAIC in my life?” The answer is Yes! I am more than just the creator and co-organizer. I am an end user, I am living proof that both the FABAIC and FABAtv work. At the FABAIC I have made friendships, improved my craft, opened international doors, saved money by learning from all of the best under one roof, and used the FABAIC as my annual vacation. At the FABAIC you can challenge yourself by entering one of the many competitions or team up with a new friend and explore body painting. Only at the FABAIC are you able to meet so many great artists from around the globe, paint side by side with them, and leave feeling creatively reinvigorated! The FABAIC is truly an experience I encourage every painter to experience. It is the only event of its kind, where it is totally geared towards learning, visual stimulation, and an overall great time! Imagine sharing ideas with Pashur, watching Yolanda and Lyma sing their rendition of Lady Marmalade, or staying up till 3 am creating a masterpiece with Mark Reid giving you pointers.

FABAIC Clown PalFABAIC Fun

On the flip side, many of us cannot attend the FABAIC for several reasons; Life, finances, kids. So until something gives, FABAtv is your on demand learning and creative inspiration. FABAtv helps keep you motivated and inspired year round. We all crave new ideas or refreshers on faces we see online. At FABAtv we invest a lot of time finding the best teachers to share topics that we want to learn on. Like Georgetter Pressler’s budget costuming or how to apply prosthetics. These classes aren’t taught anywhere else, and only on FABAtv will you find and fall in love with instructors. Not many people knew I was such a talented teacher until they saw me on FABAtv. (Hahahahaha I’m just kidding)

 FABAIC ButterflyFABAIC Artist

In a nut shell, the best investment you can make in your craft, your business, and yourself as an artist, is to attend at least one FABAIC and subscribe to FABAtv. Just because everyone in your neighborhood thinks you are the best, doesn’t mean you can stop learning and growing. The best and most successful entrepreneurs never stop learning. Surround yourself with art, business, knowledge and you will see results immediately.

Happy Painting! xoxoxox HG

 

Take me to:

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://www.fabaic.com” target=”on”]Face and Body Art International Convention[/button] [button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://www.fabatv.com” target=”on” ]Face and Body Art Television[/button]

Stencil Secrets – Free LIVE Class

Andrea O'Donnell on FABAtv LIVE

Join Andrea O’Donnell, creator of the madly popular Bad Ass Stencils and Mini Stencils, for a free live class on FABAtv April 17th at 8:00 PM EST.

Andrea will show you various designs and uses of the Bad Ass Stencils as well as several unexpected ways to get the most out of your stencils. New Bad Ass Stencils will be unveiled at the 2012 Face and Body Art International Convention, May 23rd-27th. Can’t wait? Tune in to this live class as Andrea will be giving us a sneak peek at the brand new designs!

If you had registered for the 2012 FABAIC, the winner of the free year subscription to FABAtv will be announced on this live class.


Andrea O’Donnel – Stencil Secrets Preview

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://fabatv.com/page/live” target=”on” ]Take me to FABAtv LIVE[/button]

Jay Bautista – Spotlight Artist

Each month the Faba Blog will post a spotlight article on a particular artist that excels in their profession. Our spotlight artist for the month of April 2012 is Jay Bautista.

Jay Bautista

Jay Bautista is a professional face and body artist known for his amazing line work and tribal designs. He is originally from New York and has lived in Florida for most of his adult life. Jay has been face and body painting for over 12 years and first got his start in the industry at Enjoy Your Face Inc., painting at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Since then, he has catered to high end celebrity parties, rock concerts, major sports teams, corporate events and college sports teams. Mardi Gras and Fantasy Fest are now a staple of major events that Jay attends.

Jay Bautista - Mardi GrasJay Bautista - Sun and MoonJay Bautista's Super Girl

We spoke to Jay about his upcoming projects and what he wants to explore more into. Jay wants to add more depth into his artwork and is focusing on that, as well as a new series of designs only seen by Illusion Magazine.

In his own words;

“I’m working on a lot of projects as of right now. I just finished shooting some step by step designs Illusion Magazine asked me to do. I just opened up a new YouTube Channel under methodmediavideos doing some quick designs, so if you check it out you can see me in my house clothes :-). I’m also going on a mini tour up north to NJ,CT,NY in June. Hitting up Trinidad & Tobago in July and finishing off the month in Texas. I’m also talking to Pashur about possibly doing a Tribal / Line work tour in the U.S. We did a dry run at the East Coast Convention in Connecticut and it was a HUGE success, there are already requesting us to do another workshop at that convention.

I’m also working on releasing an app within the next few months, featuring my artwork. Method Media Services LLC is the production company working on this project with me. Any artist looking to do productions should reach out to them.

I just did a live feed for a local radio station, WJRR 101.1, for an upcoming event called EarthDay BirthDay. It’s my biggest one day event of the year. I employ 10 face and body artists to paint the patrons throughout the concert. There are over 20,000 people that attend this event and this will be my 11th year painting there. When I started doing that event it was me and one other painter, so it’s grown. We will probably paint over 300 bodies that day between 10 artists, usually its just chest pieces that we do there, but sometimes someone wants a front and back, but that’s rare. Needless to say, we paint very fast.

My website is still under construction but its www.jaybautista.com. It’s a blog based site so I will be active on it, once I can find the time to sit for a few hours un-distracted. You can always add me as a friend on facebook and I created a fan page as well that will have newer content; thats www.facebook.com/JayBautistaFaceAndBodyArtist.

The best way to contact me is by email, jbautista0505@gmail.com.”

Jay Bautista has filmed several classes and tutorials for FABAtv. Check out Jay’s Channel on FABAtv and stay tuned for his latest class, Totally Tribals, premiering on April 15th! Can’t wait? Check out his free butterfly tutorial on the FABAtv youtube channel.

 

2012 FABAIC Checklist and a Free Year of FABAtv!

The 2012 Face and Body Art International Convention is less then 2 months away, do you know what to bring? FABAtv has teamed up with the FABAIC to offer a free, year subscription to FABAtv!

Win a free year subscription to FABAtv!

FABAIC Class InstructorsThe FABAIC is a convention like no other, offering the best instructors for all types of face and body art. Whether you are a beginner wondering where to start, or are advanced and looking to learn new techniques and bring more business to your trade, the FABAIC has what you need. Offering tons of classes covering face painting, body painting, airbrush, makeup, special effects, marketing and more over the course of five days, the FABAIC is an event you don’t want to miss!

FABAIC Competition InformationExciting changes have been made to the 2012 competitions! Cash prizes, products and trophies are up for grabs! Face Painting Competitions are back and divided into Children, Youth, Novice, Semi Pro, and Professional Categories!
Will you walk away with the $1,000 Cash Prize for the “Flight of Fantasy” body painting competition? Competition is open to registered FABAIC attendees. Click here for Competition Information.

The 2012 FABAIC is May 23rd through May 27th and has moved to a new location in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Want to take a break from all the creativity and learning? Relax on the gorgeous South Florida beaches, take a trip through the famous Everglades, hit up a game of golf at the hotels luxurious course, or take a shopping trip at the Sawgrass Mills mall, the second largest mall in Florida! The FABAIC is not only learning and classes, it is a well deserved vacation!

Operate your own business? Did you know your expenses associated with attending the Face and Body Art International Convention to improve your professional skills are tax deductible subject to the limitations set forth by the Internal Revenue Service? Please contact your accountant for details.

Newcomers Convention Checklist

  • Washcloths – To avoid room charges from staining their towels when showering up after a body paint, please bring your own washcloth!
  • Business Cards and your Portfolio – The FABAIC is the best place to network
  • A condensed version of your face or body painting kit
  • A sketch book and/or note pad
  • Practice head (Practice Heads will be available to purchase or rent, please contact marcela@fabaic.com for more information)
  • Male or Female underwear for your model if you are body painting. Seamless panties work the best.
  • Camera and don’t forget the charger!
  • Phone
  • Comfortable shoes and clothes
  • Baby wipes
  • Sunscreen
  • Bathing suit
  • Earplugs
  • Don’t forget spending money or your credit card! The FABAIC is not only a learning experience, it is a vacation!
  • A smile, your creative thinking cap and a well rested mind to learn and have fun! We’ll see you May 23rd!

Do you have any questions? Please contact us! E-mail Marcela at marcela@fabaic.com or call us at 954-472-5000 if you have any questions.

FABAIC FAQ

Are you in need of a roommate to cut down expenses? Visit the FABAIC forum on Facebook for a list of vendors, roommate searching, travel information and more!
Don’t forget to like the FABAIC Facebook Page!

Leave a comment below and tell us what your essentials are that you bring to a convention!

Register for the FABAIC

FABAIC What?

My aunt Marcela “Mama Clown” Murad has always been a visionary. Eleven years ago she turned her dream of creating an educational event dedicated strictly to face and body art into a reality, along with her friend Cynthia Keeler. Together they pioneered the Face and Body Art International Convention, what would soon become the greatest gathering of face and body artists in the world.

Face and Body Art International Convention

In 2007, I took over as co-producer of the FABAIC, along with Deidre MacDonald, Marcela Murad, and Claudia Banks. Together and with the rest of our amazing team, we work hard to make the FABAIC an event not to be missed.

The FABAIC is a sleep away art camp for adults. A place where creativity flows from every corner and color has no limit. The art work is jaw dropping and the classes cover all topics and skill sets. We search the globe looking for the best instructors to share their passion with other eager artists. We spend a full year planning the FABAIC to include; interesting topics, new concepts, new vendors, unveiling of new products, and a convention that is one of a kind. We put an emphasis on creating a learning environment that inspires you, sparks your creativity, and makes it impossible not to learn something.

In 2011, we celebrated our 10 year anniversary of the FABAIC. After 10 years of hosting the FABAIC in Orlando, FL we made a BIG change and moved the convention to our home town of Ft Lauderdale, FL. We wanted to enter the new decade on a fresh note and re-energize our venue. Ambiance is as critical as the content our instructors are providing. Our new hotel is full of lush tropical gardens, crystal blue waterfalls, and bright sun light classrooms. We felt the new venue is a perfect environment to go wild with your art work.

A FABAIC Classroom Tikki Hut Sun Roof!New FABAIC Hotel Pool EntranceFABAIC Hotel Waterfall Pool

The FABAIC is a convention where face and body artists come to learn. We offer the widest selection of classes, covering all topics from A-Z. Whether you are a seasoned artist, a creative make up artist looking to expand into special effects and fantasy make up, a stay at home mom that loves art, or a teacher looking for a great part time job, this event is for you. You might be asking yourself, “Do they really paint all day?” and “Will I really learn?” the answer is yes! Every year I treat my staff to the FABAIC, and after just one convention I could see the difference in their painting and artwork. The FABAIC will take you out of your box, help you expand your skills, and the creative force will inspire you to pick up your brush and explore. You don’t have to take my word for it, you can check out the FABAIC Gallery, find the FABAIC on Facebook, or just read reviews around the web. If you are serious about becoming a better painter, investing in your craft, and taking your art to the next level, then you can not afford to miss the 2012 Face and Body Art International Convention.

Besides offering over 80 classes over four days, we also offer classes for Young Artists. I was fortunate that Marcela shared the face and body art world with me really early. I developed a passion for it and it never left my side. I was able to face paint my way through college, buy my first condo with my face painting money, and turn it into a career. Your kids can enjoy classes designed especially for them, where they learn with other children their age so you can enjoy your classes knowing your kids are learning and having a blast too.

Fun and Games at the FABAICKids love Face Paint!

The FABAIC is also the worlds largest face and body art marketplace. We host all the major manufacturers of face and body art supplies so that they can debut their newest products, answer questions, and let you try before you buy your supplies. The market place is a painters candy store, the hardest part is not buying everything.

Four years ago we started the FABAIC Body Painting Competition where the first place prize is $1,000 cash. Artists from around the world come to compete and the finished product is truly unbelievable. It takes some artists years to complete one canvas, and our artists finish a human masterpiece in 5 hours. The competition is truly living art at its finest.

Nix-Herrera-ButterflyWolfe Bros- Face Painting

Even with classes, competition, shopping, and networking there’s still more! Every morning we kick of the day with a little fun and funk with a Zumba class. From 9-5 we have classes and workshops and then you can enjoy show and tell demonstrations from your peers, marketing panel discussions, and the world famous Jam sessions. The jams are painting parties where all the attendees break out their paints and practice everything they learned throughout the day. Imagine a room with 500 people painting and creating. It’s priceless and you can’t help but be amazed.

FABAIC2011-Jam

If you are still on the fence or want more information, please visit the FABAIC website or email us, Heather: heather@sillyfarm.com, Marcela: marcela@fabaic.com, or Deidre: deidre@fabaic.com. I encourage you to join us. let us help you re-energize your business, add value to your services, and grow as an artist. Let the FABAIC be your vacation this year and take a creative siesta- You deserve it! I hope to see you all in May!

Happy painting!
-Heather

[button type=”ambitious_button_clean” url=”http://www.fabaic.com/” target=”on” ]Take me to the FABAIC Website[/button]

[clear]