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.
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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.
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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

True Grit

How we all feel sometimesWe’ve all been down this road. It leaves us feeling stuck. Unsatisfied with the art we created. Maybe I’m just unable to break out of the plateau?

Believe it or not, this problem plagues even the best of the best. Caitlin from Cait’s Paints compiled some inspiring notes on the topic of “grit” from life coaches, professors, and several tried-and-true successful individuals. Learn how to find it, how to build it, and how to use it as a key to success.

Head on over to Artist Alley to read more about grit, and take the survey to see how much you already have!

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

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.

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.
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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

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

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!

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

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]

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

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!

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.
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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!