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!

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The Green Brush Part 2: Marketing Mindframe

The Green Paint Brush with Heather Green
This is the second installment in The Green Brush series sponsored by Silly Farm Supplies. Marketing and Business tips and tricks by Heather Green. Heather is the CEO and Owner of Silly Farm Supplies, an international supplies shop for face and body art. Heather is also the co-producer for the Face and Body Art International Convention.

In this segment of The Green Brush I will show you how to get into the Marketing Mind frame.

I breakdown the FREE steps to marketing your business and introduce the 4 P’s which I will explain in detail in future segments.

Marketing & Sales GraphMarketing and Sales are not synonymous, they compliment each other,. You don’t have to fear marketing your business. Marketing is relationship building. Marketing is taking the time to get to know how you can best service your clients. I will guide you on how to achieve effective marketing campaigns.

I urge you to choose a soundtrack that gets you motivated; to get in a working mode and pursue new business avenues.

I also explain sources of free marketing including grass roots campaigns and getting yourself organized to be able to effectively follow up leads. I have created a “Follow Up Form” for you to download and use free of charge. My goal with this form is to help you keep better records, so that you can keep in touch with your customers and build better relationships.

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I am focused on helping you create and build a business you are proud of. I hope you enjoy this segment of The Green Brush and I encourage you to share your ideas, stories and business successes. Please leave me a comment with your ideas or questions and don’t forget to like and share this article with your friends!

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

Caitlin’s Face Painters Hardware Prep List

Face Painters Hardware ChecklistWhat good is a face painter that’s not prepared? Of course your face painting supplies (such as paints, brushes, and glitter) are already something you may have already considered and purchased, but what about hardware and non painting items? Are you prepared for the unexpected at your next gig? Caitlin from Cait’s Paints has been kind enough to put together a hardware checklist that every painter might find themselves needing.
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  • Are you ready to be the superhero at your next event? The mighty band aid has been known to save lives and come in a variety of styles making it easy to be fashionable as well.
  • Hammer time! Do you bring any hardware tools, such as a hammer or screwdriver? You never know when you will need to turn into MacGyver in a hurry!

Head on over to Artist Alley to see the rest of the face painters checklist in it’s entirety! Thank you Caitlin!

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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

The Pro’s and Con’s of Teaching Body Art

Pros & Cons of Teaching Body ArtAre you getting requests to teach face painting or another form of body art? Are you wondering where you want to take your face painting career and if teaching is your next step?

It’s a great question to ask yourself and put some thought into. Teaching is rewarding, it also requires a level of selflessness, confidence, and organization.

Face Painting Class in Holland

The pros of teaching face painting are that you will share your passion with other painters and hopefully inspire them to transform their love of art into a business. You will no doubt become a better painter, because you will be forced to practice, refine your designs, and constantly be creative. Nothing gives me more pleasure than to teach a class, watch my students exceed my expectations, and leave energized.
Student at Holland Workshop

Heather Teaching in Holland Face Painting Practice Heads

However, there is a downside to teaching. Many of my workshops are 6+ hours. They require a level of dedication, planning, and energy to motivate your students. You also have to be willing to take criticism of the students that are unhappy or be patient enough to handle the students that require a little more help.

When you become a teacher you also have to factor in that you will potentially inspire someone else to try their hand at teaching. Are you willing to share your designs and teaching abilities with others that will use the information for their own personal gain? Will you be okay if one of your students gets booked for a gig you used to do?

The most important question to ask is: How will teaching benefit me?

Traveling to teach can be exciting. I am grateful I have been able to see half the world because of my teaching engagements. I get to travel to different countries, meet artists, try new foods, and advertise my companies. International teaching opportunities are worthwhile for me because I have product to sell after the class. If your money making opportunities stop at the end of the class, you might want to re-consider if teaching is for you. Every chance I have to teach is a new potential market opening doors for me to sell, increase my distribution, and expand my network, but for every day I am away from my desk I am also losing time and opportunities. So I weigh the pros and cons prior to planning classes.

Group Picture at Holland Workshop


My first class I was asked to teach was in Orlando for a clown convention. They did not have a large budget. They could only offer me $100 for gas, tolls, and my class. At that point I was just starting Silly Farm so I didn’t have travel inventory, a system in place to sell on the spot, or a website to direct students to. I jumped at the chance because I was excited and honored, but after I spent $75 on gas and tolls, $100 for a hotel, 8 hours of driving time, and 6 hours of teaching, I ended on a down note. It was a fun experience and helped me get my feet wet. From a business stand point it was not a good investment because I had no means to extend my money making opportunity.

If the local PTA, theater department, clown alley, or any other group want you to teach, start by making a list of opportunities and possibilities.

Ask yourself these short questions.

  1. What am I trying to accomplish from teaching?
  2. Will I cover all my expenses and have anything left?
  3. What investment in supplies, advertising, or travel will i need to make ?
  4. Am I okay if some of my students become teachers?
  5. Am I comfortable in front of a crowd for long periods of time?
  6. What would I like to see happen after the class?

Silly Farm Supplies - Everything Face and Body ArtIf you have a passion for teaching, consider finding additional means of profiting from your class. Do you have your own products to sell? Are you part of a company’s program that allows you to earn commission from selling their products, such as Silly Farm’s Incentive Program? Do you have a company you can work with to sponsor the class?

The difference between a career and a hobby, is that your career should be making money. If you want to take your business to the next level you have to get in the business frame of mind. Place a value on your time, services, and talents. When you sell your services remember the fee for your services should net you at least 10% more than the other opportunities you are turning down.

I love to see face painters blossom into strong entrepreneurs. Sometimes a little guidance and out of the box thinking is all it takes. I wish you a prosperous and success filled 2013!

Happy painting my friends, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!!

Top 20 Must-Haves for Face Painters

As I travel the world I get to meet the best of the best tackle tarts. Tackle tarts are paint hoarders that must have and buy everything related to face painting. I love tackle tarts because they keep Silly Farm in business, however I hate to see things go to waste. Some of you have so much paint that you couldn’t use it in two lifetimes. Then I meet painters that have a hodge podge of this and that, and they are still trying to find the perfect kit and set up.

The perfect kit does not exist, nor does the perfect brand. You will have to kiss a few paint frogs in order to find the products that transform your art into a Picasso or you can read my list of 20 Must haves for painters and hopefully I can save you money and time kissing those frogs!

  • 20) A mesh laundry bag to hold sponges.
    Sponges are lightweight, fly away and are easily lost. I store my sponges in a laundry bag so they don’t fly away and it makes it simple to wash them after a gig.
  • 19) Baby Wipes and not the cheapy ones either!
    When buying baby wipes try to make sure they don’t have a lot of fragrance or are rough on the skin. That way you protect your paints and don’t leave fibers in them. You can also clean the children or your hands without smelling like a baby booty.
  • 18) Business Cards on your table!
    If your goal is to generate more business and solicit new clients, don’t make them do the work. Have your cards and your contact info readily available so they can find you, book you and PAY you.
  • 17) An Acrylic Mirror.Large Acrylic Mirror
    A GOOD mirror too! Would you buy an invisible Mercedes? Probably not, so why would you paint a masterpiece and not be able to show it off? Look for an acrylic mirror at least the size of a sheet of paper. You want your clients to look in the mirror and go WOW, not scramble for a lip gloss mirror at the bottom of their mom’s purse. The reason I mention an acrylic mirror is to avoid 7 years of bad luck as acrylic mirrors are less fragile and clean easier.
  • 16) Bandaids.
    I have saved the lives of paper cut wounded children and was praised as a hero just because I carry bandaids with me. You would be surprised how far a bandaid can go and how you can save the party.
  • 15) A Gallon of Water.
    In order to keep my set up looking clean and keep parents happy with my hygiene practices, I dump my dirty water quite often. To avoid running to the sink every time I need a fresh cup, I carry a gallon of water with me to ensure enough clean water for the entire length of my gig. Clean is the new cool!
  • 14) A Table and Chair.
    It wasn’t until I stepped into the role of party mom that I realized how crazy you are when you are hosting a birthday party for your kid. You want everything to be perfect and you want the least amount of problems thrown your way. When I hire a professional and pay professional rates I expect them to come ready to go, and I expect that they have a table and chair to do their job. A table and chair is part of the required materials in order to complete their duties. The last thing I want to do when I am hosting a party is stop greeting my guests to find a table for the face painter. Being prepared is essential and gives you a professional look.
  • 13) Table Cloth.
    If you want to charge like a professional you need to look like one. I carry my face painting kit, my purse, my gallon of water and other stuff to my job. When I set up I store everything under my table and cover it all up with a nice glittery table cloth. My clients like it because I look professional and I love it because it hides all the things I don’t want kids to touch or mess with.
  • 12) A Smile.
    A smile is the only curve that sets everything straight. Remember, we sell smiles. If you yourself aren’t wearing one, how do you expect your clients to feel? Put your bad day aside when you are on the job and remember to smile because its contagious!
  • 11) Water Bottle, Snacks, and Gum.
    Especially for those long gigs! I have painted at events for 6+ hours and thank goodness I always pack a little something to nibble on and drink during the event. While it feels inhumane to paint on your feet for 6+ hours, sometimes we get carried away. Having a little snack in your pocket can make a huge difference. I try to keep granola bars or raisins in my pocket to help me along the way and keep myself energized. I also bring some water for me to drink on the job so that I don’t have to rely on the host of the party to offer me a drink. Especially during the summer months!
  • 10) Brush Tub.Brush Tub - Brush Caddy & Water Basin
    I LOVE LOVE LOVE my brush tub. I have always had trouble losing my brushes, or them rolling around on my table. I love this brush tub because I can stand my brushes up in the right direction and it has 3 compartments. I always keep one compartment with clean water to use with my q-tips for the lips. The other compartment has ridges at the bottom that help me clean excess paint residue from my brushes. It’s a good size to travel with and easy to clean!
  • 9) Q-tips.
    The best way to apply lipstick is by using a q-tip. This way you don’t have to use your brush on everyone’s lips and you can keep your brushes more sanitary. A little hint to get the glitter to stay longer on the lips. Add a little Vaseline over the lipstick and then dab glitter on. Your model will have glittery lips for a while.
  • 8) Good Round Brushes. Round Brushes
    By now most of you know I am a Gold Grip fan. The Gold Grip brushes are my personal favorites because they hold their point after repeated use in water and the bristles are chiseled to a fine point. The hairs rarely start going awry unless you leave them immersed in water, and they hold paint nicely. Round brushes are the most commonly used brushes by face painters and having a few GREAT rounds in your kit will make a HUGE difference in your line quality.
  • 7) An assortment of Arty and Rainbow Cakes. Multi-colored Paints, Rainbows, Art Cakes, ect
    Even if you just buy one arty and one rainbow cake it will be worth the investment. You would be surprised how much faster you can paint when you can put down five background colors at once. My new personal favorite rainbow cake is the Hippie and Moon Dance Rainbow Cake. They are WOW! I also can’t live without my Bright Leaf and Juicy Fruit Arty Cakes. Rainbow and Arty cakes are impressive to have on your table because parents look at your supplies and think you have a secret product only available to painters. They are also amazed at what it does and really are blown away. I load my table with rainbow and arty cakes because it also shows the parents that I have products they can’t just buy at WalMart or Party City. The products I am using are sold at the super exclusive, Painters Paradise, Silly Farm Supplies. Only painters can shop there (Just kidding).
  • 6) Sponges.Sponges & Specialty Brushes
    In order to apply base coat or to cover a large area, you will want to use face painting sponges. I suggest keeping them in the mesh bag mentioned earlier so you don’t loose them. Cutting them in half is another great way to extend their life and get the most out of them. This way you will also have a nice flat surface to blend with and cover a large area. If you plan on buying sponges from a craft store, make sure they; are soft to the skin, don’t fall apart when used in water, and don’t itch the skin.
  • 5) Cosmetic Glitter.Cosmetic Glitters
    Nothing finishes a face painting design quite like some sparkle. While some people see glitter as the STD of the craft world, I see it as essential as a Visa card. Never leave home without it! If you have to choose just one glitter, I would suggest the White Fairy Dust. The white fairy dust is the most practical because it can go over any color without covering the design. If you want to get fancy then I suggest having a pink, gold, and lime green glitter too to dress up your lips, leaves and tigers. If you purchase your glitter from a craft store please make sure it is safe to use on the skin. Make sure it is a cosmetic grade glitter, made from polyester not metallic. Metallic glitter can be harmful in the eyes and cause the child to feel itchy.
  • 4) Brush Bath.Brush Cleaner, Sanitizer, Conditioner
    It took me 4 years to work with a chemist to come up with a formula that was non toxic, safe for the skin, organic and that can be used while we face paint. Brush bath is a water sanitizer and brush conditioner. You can use it while you face paint to keep your water fresh in between rinses, and it also conditions the bristles while you rinse. It does not contain any alcohol and it is 100% safe on the skin. Adding rubbing alcohol to your face painting water does not have any affect or serve a purpose. If you don’t use Brush bath, I recommend using baby shampoo, but only a very little.
  • 3) Starblend Powders.
    Powders can be just as useful and time saving as using rainbow cakes. The powders serve as a fast background color without having to use a damp sponge. Powders are applied dry with a smoothie blender which allow for fast and smooth application. I love using the red starblend for Spiderman, it has saved me so much in paint and time!
  • 2) Gems.Acrylic Gems
    Gems are like my secret weapon. When a child doesn’t want to get painted, I whip out my gems and make a child’s day! Gems can be used to create a necklace, crown, or a pretty bracelet. Its funny, but something as simple as a gem can leave a lasting memory with both the child and parent. They are inexpensive, but can take your face painting to the next level.
  • 1) Professional Grade Face Paint.Professional Grade Face Paint
    A painter cannot paint without paint. It’s a must. I’m not going to sell you on any one brand, I would rather just push you in the direction of using skin safe, cosmetic grade face and body make up. Avoid acrylics, avoid grease make up that is hard to remove for kids, and set yourself up with a kit that looks professional, allows you to paint like Van Gough, and that you are proud to use on your own skin. Keep your paints clean, build a kit around the colors and designs you like to paint the most, and mix and match your favorite brands. I promise you will love your kit when it becomes a reflection of you.

If I missed anything on my list, send us an email or leave a comment below! Happy Painting !

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

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.


Selling a Smile

Last month I spent almost $200 to see one of my favorites DJ’s perform at a night club on Miami Beach. I fought myself when buying the ticket because I think paying $200 for general admission is ridiculous, but I have been waiting for years to see Tiësto up close and live.

So I saved my tips from my face painting jobs and treated myself. My sister and I got there early, we wiggled our way to the front of the dj booth, and 2 hours later we were waiting patiently for Tiësto to take the stage. I was so excited that I ignored the fact my feet were burning from my ‘too cute to walk in’ heels. Another hour passed and still no sign of Tiësto. It was now 2 am. I was irritated, tired, and questioning why I wasted $200 to see someone that might not even show up.

TiëstoAt that moment, Tiësto and a cannon of confetti lit up the club. I couldn’t believe I was 2 feet away from the world famous DJ Tiësto. With one glance at is face, I was no longer upset. All my feelings were swept away in a glow stick trance and all I could focus on was the biggest smile on his face. Tiësto spun for 5 hours after that. By 7 am I was almost in a coma from being so tired and deaf. I took a picture of Tiësto right before he left the stage and he had the same kool aid smile 5 hours later. I began thinking to myself, “He really loves what he does, it’s written all over his face”.


Heather in HollandI’m writing this blog from 30,000 feet in the air. I’m heading home after teaching three awesome classes in Holland. I asked the organizer of the classes why he wanted me to teach and not the other great talents of our industry, and he said because the people of Holland call me smiley. They enjoy the fact that I smile from start to finish while I teach and always welcome them with a smile. I never really thought about it, but a smile can be a game changer.

A smile speaks a thousand words in any language. A simple smile can invite someone to conversation, cut the tension, welcome communication, and make someone feel important.

One of my favorite business role models, Jeffrey Gittomer, once advised to put a mirror in front of your office phones and look at yourself when you are talking to customers. Try to smile the whole way through the conversation and see how different the conversation will be. Our faces wear our emotions, so when you are frowning, in a bad mood, or can’t muster a grin, the customer can feel it. So, that mirror still sits on my desk. I practice a smile every day. As silly as it sounds, I contribute much of my success to my smile. (Time to get Veneers, lol)

Wearing and using a smile is a small move in the right business direction. Think about times where a good smile has won you over, and how it changed your mood at that moment. Think about Julia Roberts in pretty woman or George Clooney and his seductive grin. Think of President Obama and how he smiles when he looks at his wife and children…. Those moments are contagious and memorable. I know it may sound cliche, but start with the man in the mirror. When you are on your way to a gig, getting ready to knock on the door of a party, or meeting the crazy birthday mom, check your smile first. There is always a reason to smile, let success be the biggest motivator!

Happy painting friends!

How To Get More Business

Creativity Takes CourageThere comes a time in every entrepreneurs journey where the road splits and we have to shift gears from operating as a hobby to full throttle sales. Many of us start off small, clients here and there, passing out the occasional card, and answering calls at our leisure. Problem with that is, at the same time, we have invested in hundreds and even thousands of dollars in supplies that aren’t generating income. So the real question is, “How do I get the business I want and need?”.

*Disclaimer: The thoughts, advice and information provided in this post are solely the opinions of the author and should be followed up with due diligence prior to holding them as truth.
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  1. Determine the level of business you are looking to pursue.
  2. If you want to do the occasional birthday or town event, or if you only want to work one weekend a month, I don’t suggest that you flood the town with business cards. If you are looking to work every weekend and possibly a restaurant or two during the week, then your strategy will differ. Some of us have BIG plans for our face painting businesses. We want to bring in the bucks, book tons of good paying gigs, and paint till our hands hurts. But it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Typically a face painters busiest days of the week are Saturday and Sunday, which are also the days we like to spend with family, catch up on house chores, or attend our own personal events. Are you ready to commit your weekends to work? If you are, I will tell you how to get more business, but if you don’t want the responsibility of booking, invoicing, inventory, and working on the weekends, then you will want to consider working through an agent that will book you based on availability.

  3. There are no shortcuts to being successful in business.
  4. Investing is one of the most crucial aspects of business success and growth. When I refer to investing, I’m not just talking about in product. I am talking about investing your time in marketing (meeting people), volunteering, doing research and learning.

  5. Marketing yourself in most cases is free.
  6. Marketing involves putting your people skills to work. Get out there and network. Talk to your neighbors, teachers, friends, and get involved in your community events. Visit a local family restaurant and offer a family night to drum up business. That alone gives you the opportunity to network with other families in your area. Invest time in people and those people will turn into customers.

  7. Planning can mean the difference between success and failure.
  8. What am I talking about you say? Suppose it’s a busy weekend and you have three parties booked back to back. Rather than waiting until the day of to punch in the addresses in your GPS and drive frantically from event to event, map out your day on Thursday. Call the party mom’s or event managers to confirm locations and ask for any special instructions. Planning early will eliminate the surprise factor that can cause you to run late, mess up an address, or forget about a road closure that may take you 20 miles out of the way.

  9. Research is another core component of being successful.

Creativity is a way of LifeI spend no less than 20-24 hours a week researching trends, color schemes, browsing the web for ideas, new products, reading blogs, answering questions, watching you tube, teaching myself new skills and finding inspiration. If you are a newbie you will want to spend your time browsing the net looking for pricing ideas for your region, local events to market, research what services others are offering and at what prices, and how you can possibly collaborate with local agencies. Being prepared is important because when push comes to shove knowing your worth will mean the difference between ending the day in the red or the black.

Every year I face paint at the largest Hispanic festival in south Florida. Over 100,000 people attend this festival and being prepared pays off. I am hired to face paint the public at no charge. For me it’s a great event because I get paid whether I paint 10 people or 100 people. The difference is that we are allowed to accept tips. So it’s in our best interest to move the line. After several years of doing this event, I have my system down packed. I have a limited display and work from a board. I can paint almost 20 people per hour based on the board designs. I print off the flags of the various Hispanic countries, laminate the sheets and offer them as designs. This formula works to my advantage because I can move quick and my customers are happy.


open your mindLast year a local new painter decided to set up shop at the festival. Her first mistake was that she failed to do her research. One, you have to have a permit and insurance to set up a concession at a city festival. Two, she did not bring a table to set up her supplies, so she asked me to share mine. My client that hired me did not want her painting next to me because she didn’t know if she was using proper materials or had proper paperwork, so she made her move. Later that afternoon I saw the poor girl using an empty box as her table. Third, she didn’t come prepared. She did not have pictures for the people to choose from, she had to “look up” the flags on her iPhone, and she didn’t have extra water to use to change out her cup.

After the festival I walked over to her to talk to her and introduce myself. I handed her my card and told her to give me a call and that I’d help her. At first she seemed put off. Perhaps she was slightly embarrassed or didn’t know what my intentions were, but that call is the reason she is now running a successful face painting business.

If she had taken the time to visit the festival and do her research to find out if there were painters at the festival, what designs they were offering, what they were charging, if she was legally able to just show up and paint, what products they were using, etc.., she would not have faced the embarrassing challenges she brought upon herself.

Lastly, I want to stress the importance of learning. I have taken well over 300 classes on just face painting. I try to use any free time I have to watch a FABAtv lesson. Learning helps you be prepared, helps you service your customers better, and helps you gain an advantages over the other painters that only paint three designs or cheek art. For example, one of my favorite customers called and asked me if I could paint her daughters synchronized swimmers team and she was looking for water proof make up. Luckily for me I had just watched a class by Nix Herrera about airbrush make up application and that gave me the knowledge on what to offer her.

Another time when I was hired to paint at a boy scout convention. I stayed up till 3:00 AM watching classes by Mark Reid, Lynne Jamieson, Sammie Bartko, and Wiser just to brush myself up on the designs boys love. Learning is what engages us to try new things, explore beyond our comfort zone of butterflies and princesses, and can open up doors of possibilities. If you are struggling with speed, invest some time in learning techniques to help you speed up your designs without compromising quality. If you are uncertain about how to file your taxes or incorporate as a business in your state, invest time in reading and learning about it on the SBA website or business blogs. Don’t underestimate the importance of investing in yourself. You are selling yourself and your services. It makes perfect sense to be prepared with the right tools, the right knowledge, and the insight about how to do the best job possible.

Having those tools will certainly take you 10 steps in the right direction to create more sales, gather more clients and grow your business.

I write these articles to share my knowledge and help other artists grow. Please feel free to share you business advice with me and our community of painters. If you wish to write for the Faba Blog, contact us.

Happy Painting!

Creativity never goes out of style

Freebies – Business Cards, Tutorials, & Consulting

This article is a submission from Artist Alley. Click here to view it on Artist Alley.
When you’re just getting your business started, the onslaught of expenses can be staggering. After all, it takes money to make money – right? Definitely…but sometimes the best things in life are FREE!

Getting Started

Every new business needs a website, which I found to be one of my most daunting tasks. Web designers are expensive, and it’s easy to get taken advantage of when you don’t know much about web development. Check out our last article about websites and you’ll be well on your way to getting started for free, with minimal technical knowledge.
Business card examples
Business cards
are an absolute essential for networking; you never know where you’ll be when someone asks for your information. Pulling out a stylish business card looks much more professional than scrambling to jot down your number on some scrap paper you found in your purse. Vista Print and Zazzle both offer free business cards, with plenty of design templates to choose from.
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If your business involves selling merchandise, check out the United States Postal Service‘s array of free shipping supplies. You can “purchase” your supplies online, and have it shipped right to your door.

Education & Designs

The education process is endless. You may have already “learned” your trade, but keeping up with the latest trends and techniques takes some serious dedication. While I recommend saving up for workshops and conventions, it’s understandably expensive. Keep your skills fresh between classes by dabbling around on Youtube; there’s tutorials for everything from cheek art to prosthetics, henna, and more. Some of the biggest names in face & body art keep active channels, full of advice and tutorials.

Check out Silly Heather and Jinny for starts!
Heather Green - Face PainterJinny Makeup Artist

Business Consulting

Even with all of the right supplies and talent, a small business can fizzle out if you’re not prepared for the management end of things. SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) is a nonprofit consulting service for entrepreneurs to help you build your business from a solid foundation. In addition to their free business counseling services, they host low cost workshops and webinars.

Managing your money and resources from the start will afford you more success in the long run. Fancy business cards and high end websites are great, but pace yourself! Grow your business thoughtfully; every penny matters.

Wishing you all so much success,
Caitlin St. Angelo

Look the Look & Talk the Talk

Heather Green Working

Last year I made a major breakthrough in my career.
For the past seven years I have worked 7 days a week, sometimes clocking in 95 hour work weeks. It was brutal but a necessary evil in trying to create my dream career. Last year I made the best business decision to date, I hired an assistant! What was I doing before I found Andrew? How did I get everything done and still walk a straight line? Hiring Andrew was the first time I felt like a true legitimate CEO. Even though I have been blessed with a growing business and now employ 22 hard working women (and 3 men), it wasn’t until Andrew took his position that I felt like I made it. When I introduce Andrew I feel accomplished because the term assistant makes me sound professional. Bill Gates has an assistant, and Oprah Winfrey has an assistant, I like putting myself in their category. Truth is that an assistant didn’t change a thing about me or my status, besides lightening my workload, but it gave me the confidence to walk the walk and talk the talk. I’m still the same old Heather, with an organized (messy) desk, old Cheerios under my keyboard (from my 2 year old), and piles of unopened mail.

Professional Business Woman
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

If you want to be a professional you need to put yourself in the mind frame of a professional. The first person to believe the hype needs to be YOU! Believe it, think it, make it happen. One way to do that is to invent your own manager/ assistant/ agent. Typically birthday mom’s don’t want to go through an agent to hire a face painter for their birthday, but they will be impressed if Jennie your assistant answers the phone and checks your schedule. You are Jennie, you are not you, when booking an event.

  1. Jennie can say no to a free job or a discount.
  2. Jennie knows how to spell out the services you will be providing during your booking.
  3. Jennie creates the illusion that you are so busy and big, that you need an assistant or agent.

Agents and large booking companies like dealing with other professionals. They sometimes see us artists as flaky and dramatic. They feel a level of comfort when they are working with someone that appears organized and thorough.

One time I got myself in a pickle while I was booking a birthday party. After I went over my spiel about how many kids I can paint etc… The mother asked me if I could do better on the price. I told her that I could not offer a discount on my rate but if she needed someone in her price range I could recommend someone else. The mother was so upset and proceeded to fight with me about lowering my price and how I needed to give her a break because she was a single mother. She kept asking me why I couldn’t lower my prices. If Jennie had answered my phone then there would have been no fighting or debating. Point blank, if you want to book Heather, her rates are $150 for the first hour and $100 each additional.

Email Connection
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Another way to walk the walk is to answer your phones and emails. I make it a habit to answer all emails and calls within 24 hours. In most cases the early bird gets the worm, and failing to answer emails can cost you big. On average I receive 100-450 emails daily! Not including my YouTube, Faceboo, and other social media. So I start the morning prioritizing emails. I created blanket answers that I can use to respond to catalog request and shipping quotes, and then I work my way through. Waiting on someone to answer your email is like waiting to get asked to the prom by your crush. Business is business and grabbing the business by the horns will usually seal the deal.

No matter your business goals, conducting business as a professional will pave the road to future possibilities. Spend 15 minutes each day setting goals, verbalizing your vision, and speaking affirmations into existence. Everyday that you invest in walking the professional road, you will be one step closer to making things happen.

Don’t forget to share your stories and ideas with us, I’m a firm believer that we stand to learn the most from each other.

Happy painting my friends!
-Heather

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]
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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]

FABA Review: FAB Metallics & New Silly Farm Signature Brushes

A product review by Silly Heather, covering the brand new Silly Farm Signature Brush Line and FAB Makeup Paints. Silly Heather demos the products and talks their pros and cons.

Watch the FAB Metallics & New Brush Review on Youtube.

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.
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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.

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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

Picture This

Silly Heather GreenI am fortunate to have gigs coming in from all angles. I work with several agents in the south Florida area and they bring me great work. The only downside to it, is that every agency requires a little something different. One agency emails me a gig sheet with directions and more event info than i’ll ever need. While other agencies send me on blind parties and I hold my breathe until the event ends.

About 5 years ago, an agent booked me and it seemed business as usual. Two days prior to the party, I came down with strep throat. Up to that point I had never missed a gig. I pride myself on doing a great job and never letting anyone down, so knowing I had to give my job away was difficult. I called my BFF to cover for me. I called the agency and spoke the the assistant planner and she made the switch. The day of the event I get a call from the birthday mom livid with me. She was upset because the agency had sent her my picture with her contract and she wanted to know why I didn’t show up and why they sent a replacement without notifying her.

I did my best to keep cool and not be reactive, but I didn’t know what shocked me more; The fact the lady had my picture, or the fact that she called to scream at me about it. Long story short, I calmed the lady down, explained my strep throat and told her I would find out from the agency why she wasn’t notified.

The next day I called the agent and told them the story. They told me that they email every client the picture of the entertainer coming to their event so there are no surprises. The owner of the agency told me that because she was sending performers into the homes of high end clients, she wanted the customer to feel safe prior to the event. Her idea made sense to me, surely I’d be more relaxed if I knew that the painter I hired for my kids birthday party wouldn’t show up covered in tattoos and piercings.

The downside to sending a picture in advance is that pictures speak a thousand words. If you send a picture ahead of time and the clients doesn’t like your look it can cost you the job. It is still very common to judge a book by its cover. So if you send a picture of yourself, they will base your talent on your appearance. And you have to be willing to defend your look. The other problem with sending a picture is that you can not change artists at the last minute because the party parents know what you look like. The mom that screamed at me, felt I was trying to scam her. I explained that my BFF was amazing and just as good, and luckily the woman agreed to let her stay. In the end it worked out and it opened my mind.

Sending a picture ahead of time is good customer service. If you have a website with your profile picture or about us page, send the link to your customers. It will allow them to put a face with a name and set their minds at ease. Playing guess who and what will show up at the door is not a fun game. Preparing my customers means happy customers, and I’m all about that.

If you are being booked from an advert or referral and the client has never seen you, giving them a glimpse of what they will get is not only helpful, it can mean building a loyal customer.

If you are going to send a picture, make sure it is event appropriate and that it conveys a professional, accurate portrayal of you. Planning makes perfect and picture perfect can be your way to get noticed!

Happy painting! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! :)

Heather is the CEO of Silly Farm Supplies, a face and body art supplies company located in Davie, Florida.

Looking Good on the Job

So, you have spent the last 6 months practicing tear drops and line strokes. You are pumped and ready to paint the world, but you have no idea what to wear. Do you go the all black route and potentially look like you are painting at a funeral? Do you raid the local thrift store for a funky eclectic variety of tops and bottoms? Do you hire a professional costume designer and create a one of a kind uniform to match your personality?

You can do any of the above, or you can finish reading this blog and hopefully be inspired enough to build a professional wardrobe that compliments you and your image.

Different Do’s for Different Days

Build a work wardrobe just as you would for an office career. Think about the types of events you get hired for and what would be the most comfortable clothing options. For example, I live and work in south Florida. It’s HOT 90% of the year. So, when I was putting together my “birthday party ages 3-7” look, I decided to opt for a cute sundress with light weight leggings and top. My look works great for me because it meets all my requirements.

  • Comfort is essential
  • Do I stand out from a normal guest at the event?
  • If I spill a little paint on my clothes will it show?
  • Do I look like a professional?

Face  Painter Be-Dazzled T-ShirtWhen I put together my “adult event painter look”, I opted for a Bling Body Artist or Face Artist shirt with black pants and either a sequin fuchsia beret or a sparkly head band to set it off. My adult/evening look makes me feel professional, explains my purpose, and sets me apart from the other guests.

You don’t have to spend a million in order to feel like a professional. A nice pair of black pants, comfortable shoes, and making sure your clothing is ironed and clean will speak volumes.

[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.sillyfarm.com/store/index.php?p=catalog&parent=318&pg=1″ target=”on” ]Get your Be-Dazzled Artist Shirt from Silly Farm![/button]

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Silly Heather Face PaintingOne key element to completing the look is painting your own face. I believe that adding a little face paint, eye candy, or sparkles is the icing on the cake. When you paint your own face, your customers get a feel for your skills. They are usually impressed you can paint yourself and if you opt for an all black look you can use the face paint as the splash of color. Painting yourself can also be a way to tie in the theme of the event. If you are doing a safari themed party and you add a little cheetah to your eyes, your client will notice and it didn’t cost you a thing!
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When I first started face painting 15 years ago, only clowns were face painting. It was part of the job, they get dressed in a wig and full costume to be hired as a face painter. Today we have options, and part of charging for professional services means looking the part. Birthday moms, event planners, and agents want their artists to look the part. It’s always wise to discuss expectations with your clients.

One of our big accounts is a banking company, where we do a lot of branch grand openings. They are very specific that on the day of the event they want all staff to wear red shirts and khaki pants. As event planners, we organize that all painters and balloon artists have the required clothing. On the other hand, when I am booking birthday parties, I always ask if there is a theme. If not, Silly Heather the face painter will wear professional face painting attire; which is either my floral, festive party dress and leggings, or my sequin beret, colorful waist apron and bling shirt.

If you operate a booking agency, you might want to consider investing in an uniform or purchasing a “look” for all your staff to maintain consistency and professionalism. Whether you get aprons embroidered or shirts screen printed, uniformity correlates to professionalism.

Airbrush Artist

For a nice selection of embroidered clothing check out blackcatembroidery.com or couparcreations.com and tell them Silly Heather sent you!

Please share your work ‘looks’ with us. Let us know why you choose your look and how you went about creating it. Community is our most valuable resource. Sharing with one another helps our industry grow, sets standards, and can open many doors. Thank you for supporting the blog and I can’t wait to see your ‘look’!

Happy painting!
-Heather

Eating on the Job

I work for several different booking agencies. Many of them have it stated in my contract that eating on the job is strictly prohibited, but its sooo hard to ignore the smell of fresh popcorn, sweet cotton candy, grilled hamburgers and all the yummy sweets parties are known for serving.

Face Painting and Eating

It wasn’t until I was photographed at a party with a mouth full of cookie that I decided to put a nix on eating on the job.

  • It was not hygienic to eat near my paints
  • It was rude to be eating will I am being paid to do a job
  • If I wanted to maintain a professional persona then I needed to be prepared on the job which includes eating before a job or arranging a break time to eat outside my painting vicinity.

I get hired to do long events where I might be standing on my feet for over 6 hours. Bending and lifting kids can not only work up a hunger, but food is a must when you are working at such an intense pace. Whenever I have an event booked for longer than 4 hours I always require a 15 minute break and I pack a light lunch that I can eat during my break. I learned this method the hard way, but to this day my method helps me avoid hunger headaches and ensures I am able to do my best job possible.

Because of my Latin roots and the majority of the parties I attend are hosted by latin people, they are always offering me plates of food and sometimes alcohol. Latin people are notorious for demanding that you eat their food and enjoy it. I explain to the host that I do not eat during my jobs, but they can always pack a plate to go. Most of the time I do not want the food they are offering anyways, but letting them know I will take a plate to go kills 2 birds with one stone so that I don’t offend anyone or have to stop painting to eat.

I also do a lot of events that have lavish catered food and I make sure never to assume I am allowed to eat the food until the event planner invites me. Nothing is ruder than standing in line in  front of invited guests and serving yourself a plate of food. I look at myself and a hired guest, and I would not appreciate someone eating from my party without an invitation to do so.

If you are a hiring agent, I suggest writing some general rules to avoid your performers potentially embarrassing you. Make sure to state that there is no eating on the job and that alcohol on the job is strictly prohibited. If the client requests that you eat, you must wait until your contracted time is over or request a plate to go.

By laying down rules you can avoid losing a gig and setting a standard for professional behavior. Sometimes stating the obvious can mean the difference between a headache and a tip. Communicate everything assume nothing. Words to live by.

Happy Painting!

-Heather
Heather is the CEO of Silly Farm Supplies, a retailer of face and body art supplies.

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.
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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
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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!

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!

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]

Indie Craft Fairs – The Good, Bad, and Ugly

First of all – what in the heck is Indie? This is the explanation provided by answers.com

  • One, such as a studio or producer, that is unaffiliated with a larger or more commercial organization.
  • An artistic work produced by an independent company or group: “[His film] showed that indies could . . . take in millions at the box office” (Liesl Schillinger).

Usually organizers are crafters themselves. Most of the Indie Craft Fairs I have been involved with are people that create new items out of recycled materials, or are very retro in nature. Several websites, such as IndieCraftShows, or a quick Google search will find you times and places these craft fairs are held.

Pam at Indie Craft FairI got involved with my first Indie Craft fair about 2 years ago. I signed up to do henna at their event. You usually have to buy a booth, which can run from $35-$55 depending on the place. I would not spend much over that for a single event. You want to be able to recover your money you have laid out for the event. I have been promoted for each event which helps build my business connections. Most of my clients are return customers and you also get asked to participate in other events, some larger then the fair you are currently working.

The Good

Usually these people are so much fun to be around and the creativity is amazing. You will make such wonderful connections in your area which can lead to more jobs for your business. Usually you will be the only henna provider for the event. Face painting is not really used at these events unless it is a Halloween show, but if you provide both services, they might ask you to provide both.[clear]

Henna Design Henna on Hand

The Bad

Most of the time these can be outdoor events, which in some areas can be more than a problem. My one fair I always do seems to schedule a huge rain storm with each event. The producer finally found a venue which is indoors. The other bad thing about these types of fairs is that most people are selling wares and you will be selling a service. Henna is more popular in some area than in others. I start my prices at $10.00 per design. A lot of the items sold at Indie Craft Fairs are fairly inexpensive, usually under $10. So your clientele might want to save their pennies to purchase many items, but don’t be discouraged, it can turn out to be a great event for you also.

The Ugly

You buy a booth and you make nothing. This can happen too. If the producer of the show does not promote to the Indie crowd, your show will probably be a bust.

I encourage all of you to check out your Indie Craft market in your area and talk with the producers to get a feel for the need and demand for henna services.

-Pam

Looking for Henna products? Silly Farm Supplies carries several Mehndi/Henna kits and supplies.
Leave a comment below and tell us if you offer Mehndi/Henna services.

Brush Basics 101

Brush Basics 101

Do you know the difference between a #2 and a #4 brush? Filbert to Flat? This new video on the different types of brushes you will run into as a face and body painter, covers the major brushes you should have in your kit. Silly Heather of Silly Farm Supplies shows you several techniques and designs you can achieve with the different brushes. She demonstrates body brushes, flat brushes, chisel brushes, and round brushes to name a few. She also covers some specialty brushes and talks about her favorite brush.

The brushes used in this video are located below.
Feel free to like and share! Leave a comment and tell us what brushes you include in your kit!
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Brush Basics 101 – Youtube

Click on a Brush to view more details or to purchase from Silly Farm

Gold Grip #4
Gold Grip #4
Double Filbert #8
Double Filbert #8

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Flora #10
Flora #10
Paradise Body Brush 830
Paradise Body Brush 830

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Paradise Chisel Brush 816
Paradise Chisel Brush 816
Comfort 1/4th Dagger Brush
Comfort 1/4th Dagger Brush

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Filbert Brush #10
Filbert Brush #10
One Stroke 3/4ths Flat
One Stroke 3/4ths Flat

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1/2 Scruffy Brush
1/2 Scruffy Brush
Mark Reid Fan Brush
Mark Reid Fan Brush

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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

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Painting Inspiration

Face Painted Inspirational Masks

One of the most wonderful things I discovered as an artist was to make myself aware of my surroundings, as inspiration is always there waiting to be discovered. All we have to do is open our eyes and see. The following are some suggestions based on the things I’ve learned to do, to welcome inspiration to flow in my daily life.

LIVE WITH IT

I believe that creative inspiration and abilities can be absorbed by osmosis, and living with it can make us more creative. Surround yourself with as much art as you can afford.

CREATE AN INSPIRING WORK PLACE

Even if you live in a small apartment with five cats, carve out a corner for your art supplies. I keep a palette, brushes, sponges, water container, a few books, magazines, pictures, a small VCR/DVD player, DVD’s, a practice pad and watercolor tablet in a small table next to my favorite chair. I relax by practicing my strokes and by creating new, original designs. As time goes by, it has become a habit that aids me in improving my skills.

A COOKBOOK OF INSPIRATION

Another tool that has helped me a lot is my collection of scrapbooks. Their pages filled with colorful images from magazines, catalogs, advertisements, my own doodles and other painters’ work are a feast of images and ideas. Most creative people thrive on a steady diet of stimuli. Keep your cookbook of inspiration close at hand and cook up amazing new design ideas.


Marcela’s Tips & Tricks

TREAT YOURSELF TO AN INSPIRING DAY

Give yourself an inspiring break. Start by marking the date in your calendar and making the commitment to just do it. Take a full day, a half day or even a couple of hours to search for inspiration. Plan a trip for the artist in you to a museum, a gallery, art store, bookstore or an artsy part of town. You don’t have to buy anything, just observe and take notes. I can guarantee that by the time you get home, you will be looking forward to sitting in your artist workspace to allow the collected inspiration to flow out of you like a waterfall.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

Body Painting at FABAIC 2010 Don’t be afraid to color outside the lines. Picasso didn’t get famous by painting realistic portraits and Dali made us look at faces in a brand new way. Dare to change the rules of what you have been taught and see what happens. Buy yourself a new brush, maybe one of an unusual shape and discover what you can do with it on your own. Find ways to combine colors that in your mind don’t match. Fire your critics (especially your inner one) and know that our growth is in trying new things.
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Face Painting Book of ButterfliesWhen I was working on the Face Painting Book of Butterflies, there came a point where I felt that all of the designs were looking very much alike. The next morning while I was sitting by the ocean, I decided to give Jinny a call to ask her for advice. She said to me, “Face painting is fantasy art–anything goes. Think outside the box. Morph your butterflies with another animal or anything that comes to mind. See what happens.” First I didn’t understand exactly what she meant so I decided to close my eyes to meditate on it for a few minutes. When I opened my eyes I saw the most beautiful sunrise and immediately I picked up my drawing pencils and created the sunrise butterfly, which is in the book. The top wings are the colors of the sky at sunrise with a few seagulls decorating it. The bottom wings have the ocean and the beach with a couple palm trees painted in each corner. The sun is the body of the butterfly. It is one of my favorite ones in the book.[clear]

TAKE ART CLASSES

Art classes are inspirational. They help your face and body painting skills to emerge. From one-stroke painting, to ceramics or watercolors, art is art. Inspiration abides in experimenting with all types of art forms.
You can usually find your favorite artists traveling and teaching. Attend one of their classes, or go to a convention to really boost your skills. With the internet ever expanding, it has become easier then ever to find and take a workshop, even taking online classes like FABAtv.com.

FABAIC 2012 - Face Painting, Body Painting, Airbrush Art

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Feeling good is also a form of inspiration. Our physical condition and frame of mind are essential raw materials because the source of creativity lives deep within our souls. Taking care to be healthy in body, mind and spirit makes us more receptive to the gifts of inspiration that surround us. Make a list of things you can do that will help you snap out of a low day. Take a candle lit bath, listen to your favorite music, eat fruits and chocolate, go for a walk, read a good book, hug somebody or make a list of all the things in your life that you are grateful for. Say Thank YOU! Then enjoy your artistic work place as you relax and paint!

-Marcela Murad
Co-Producer of the Face and Body Art International Convention

Leave a comment below and tell us what you do to get inspired.

Plenty of Paint

When it comes down to picking which face paint you want to stock in your kit, it’s hard to choose and to know the differences between brands, colors, and manufacturers. I am fortunate that I play with paint for a living. I harass the manufacturers to send me new colors as soon as they are hot off the press and I test each color to see how it measures up against other similar colors from different brands. In a nut shell, there are two types of water based face paint; Wax based and Glycerin based.

Wolfe, TAG, and Diamond FX are all wax based paints.

Wolfe Face Art & FX TAGDiamond FX

FAB, Kryolan, Paradise, and Snazaroo are glycerin based paints.

FAB PaintKryolan Paradise AquacolorSnazaroo

There is no shortage of amazing colors and shades of face paint. If you are a paint junkie like me, then you want it all. Take my advice; You will never use 10,000 pots of paint and it’s too time intensive unpacking 10,000 pots of paint. When you get down to choosing your ideal kit, choose color over brand name. Although paints are made with similar formulas, the main differences are the colors. My advice? If you are in love with a particular color then add it to your kit.

Wax based paints are ideal for line work, because they are smooth and require less water to activate them. Sometimes sponging and blending can be a challenge because the sponge can absorb too much water. Since they have wax in them they tend to be less resistant to blending, but better for layering.

Wolfe White 45gmWolfe white and black are known for being the best for line work. The reason behind that is because Wolfe white is one of the few whites that actually stays on top of the color instead of blending into the background colors. With wolfe white you can make dots on top of black paint and the white will stay vibrant. Wax paints are typically strong in pigment and they are excellent for line work because of the smooth consistency. Wax paints are also known to withstand the heat a little better because the wax is harder to break down. For humid and hot climate areas the wax paints are in high demand.
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FAB Alice BlueGlycerin based paints are typically creamier and excellent for blending with a sponge. Unlike wax based paints, where the paints layer well, glycerin paints blend better and dry slightly slower so you are able to sponge and blend them easier.

For these reasons, I suggest having a variation of brands in your kit. Choose color over brand. Colors vary from brand to brand. Kryolan has a line of paint called Interfereze which is a specialty line within their Aquacolor line. Interferenze paints are shimmer paints, unlike the kryolan metallics which are made with metallic flake pigments. The Interfereze paints are creamy and soft and contain a shimmer rather than a flake. Kryolan also has a Ultra Violet Day Glow line as well. The UV paints are also knows as Neon paints. Kryolan and Wolfe both make these paints that are black light reactive and glow under fluorescent lighting. In normal light they are super vibrant and very popular because the colors are so intense. Once they are under a backlight they appear glowing.

Ultra Violet UV Day Glow Neon Paints

Paint can get confusing, I have to admit. Kryolan calls their metallic colors Metallics and Interfereze. Wolfe calls their UV paints Neons, while Kryolan calls them UVDG. Snazaroo named their metallic and shiny colors ‘Sparkle‘. FAB has ‘Shimmer‘ colors, as well as ‘Glitter‘ colors. So before you get lost in the abyss of face paint remember you have a friends ( or 21 friends at Silly farm) ready to help you.

If you ever need helping choosing the paint for you, want to know the best red, or are looking for the perfect ninja turtle green. You are always welcome to live chat us, email me, or give me a call at Silly Farm. Choosing paint should be fun, so don’t let brand names get your brushes in a bunch. Just close your eyes, think of your favorite colors and write them down. Browse each section until you find the one you are looking for and cross if off your list. The results will be your perfect kit!

Leave a comment below and tell us what your favorite colors and brands are!

Happy painting!
-Heather

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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

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What is a Super Jam?

If you have ever been to the FABAIC and participated in one of the jam sessions, you will have an idea of what a Super Jam is. A Super Jam is not a class, it is much different. A Super Jam is a painting party!
What’s better then bringing a large group of talented artists all together under one roof, for a night of fun, prizes, networking and paint? A Jam is were the creativity flows unrestricted and artists can practice alongside each other and share their unique techniques and designs, while learning from others. This is the kind of experience that only Super Jams can offer.

My business motto has always been to treat your customers like they are old friends. Because we are an internet based business, we don’t get to meet and greet all our customers. I started hosting super jams last year so I could re-connect with all my painter friends, share information about upcoming events, and paint together. As our industry grows, so do our skills and artistic ability. I love breaking out my paints and learning from a fellow painter. I love seeing painters oooooo and aweeeee when I show them a new color or a new stencil. I try to make the Super Jams affordable and fun. It’s only $10 for the entrance fee and kids are free. I demo designs, answer questions, and we paint! There will be FabaTV demos and I’ll be bringing lots of samples for you to try, including new FAB Paints and BAM stencils.

I am adding more dates as soon as I confirm cities. Thank you for your support and I hope to see you and your paint brushes at our next Super Jam near you.

EFABAE Southfield Michigan Class Southfield Michigan SuperJam Arty Cake Class at Silly Farm Supplies

Face Painting Family

My face painting journey began when my aunt forced me to paint alongside her. Little did I know that holding that brush would change my life. I have been so fortunate to travel the world, meet amazing painters and make friends doing what I love. My face and body art friends have become my family. We share our artwork and put ourselves out there to learn from one another and selflessly help each other grow.

After working in a corporate environment, I’m so grateful for my face painting family because we are a community of really good people. Almost 12 years ago, I was fortunate enough to meet a special type of artist. Marcela and I would teach a lot of classes at the NY Clown Alley and that is where I first met Deva.

Deva Prem was a true artist. She wasn’t the best painter in the world, but she had a style all her own. She was a spiritual, peaceful, loving, and inspiring woman. She helped me in so many ways to grow Silly Farm. She was tough on me and honest, and even when I didn’t want to hear it, I always listened because her heart was pure. Deva epitomized the love of art. Deva would introduce all her art friends to our world and would support them as they blossomed into amazing face and body artists. She introduced me to the recent Face Off competitor, Athena Zhe. I remember Deva telling me, “I’m bringing my artist friend Athena to your class. She will blow you away!”. She sure did! Deva also raved about an artist friend of hers, Derrick Little, and after one glance at his art work I was hooked. Deva knew art and knew how to bring people together because of it.
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Sadly, Deva left our world last year. Deva lost her battle with cancer, but in true Deva fashion, I know she would want us to continue her legacy by sharing art. Even during her hardest moments battling cancer, Deva made sure to attend the FABAIC and offered free massages to attendees. Her spirit of generosity is what prompted this blog.

Her dear friend, Derrick Little, has started his own Art Project in memory of Deva and to help others in their fight against breast cancer. Please take a moment to visit his site, ShieldYourHeart.org, and if you have the means, please support his cause and help keep Deva’s passion alive. Derrick is one of the most creative and out of the box artists I know, and I’m sure the card collection is a bonus!



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I make an effort to get to know all my customers because our face painting world is small. Sooner or later our paths cross and it’s good to know our family keeps growing. Happy painting and thank you for reading.

-Heather

Live Your Passion

Wolfe Face Paint

A passion is a craving, the thing we hunger for. It’s what we are most curious about. Our passion is what we long to do, something that makes us truly happy and enriches our lives. Being passionate about something inspires us to take action, to put energy into our dreams and to make them come true. If you are passionate about something, ask yourself,

“What do I need to do to live my passion, to keep it alive?”

If your passion is the same as mine, Face and Body Art, some of my tips will help you.
Buy yourself a scrapbook and start collecting images of anything that catches your eye. These can be pictures from a magazine, other artists work, or your own drawings and doodles. You can also keep a folder in your computer, or use an online service like Pinterest, for the same purpose. Personally, I like the feeling of holding the book and slowly looking through it’s pages. On days when my creativity is running low, they serve as inspiration and they rekindle my passion for my art.

FABAIC 2009
FABAIC 09 Winner Alex Hansen

“How do you get started?”

Make a list of things you dream of doing and pursue it. Take a workshop with your
favorite artist, publish a book, travel and get paid for sharing
your talents with others! Read your list everyday, believing that all things
are possible. Then commit to practice, because practice will help you to become better at
what you do and more passionate about it! The old saying still holds true, “Practice makes perfect”!

-Marcela Murad

FABAIC PhotosFABAIC Photos Athena Zhe

Leave a comment below and tell us what your passion is!
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Does your Display Board meet the cut?

Every time I am teaching I get asked, “Do you bring a display board with you?”. When I first started painting I made a beautiful board with color pictures. I had laminated each picture and created a masterpiece board! About 5 parties in, I lost my board. I am a forgetful person and sadly I loose a lot. After that I was too distressed to make another. So I started offering children their choices and let them be surprised. Part of me didn’t like the board because then I got bored. I felt restricted to only painting what the customers saw and I never got to try new designs. At the same time it helped me plan my time better because I knew how long each design took to execute. So I started thinking to board or not to board?
Pocket Chart

If you are just getting started or enjoy carrying a display board I wanted to share with you a cool, inexpensive way to create a versatile board. I found this Pocket Chart at one of my favorite stores.

It’s lightweight , colorful and the pockets are great for displaying my work. The best part about this board is that you can change out the pictures depending on the event. And this way it keeps us from getting bored. So if you are doing a princess party, then you can display only girls images, if you are doing a animal themed party you can display just animals and so on….I display my company info and the tag line on the middle square so it’s easy to find my card and see my info. The middle piece says Face Art by Hunny B or Silly Heather my number and Yes! I’d love to paint at your next event. take my card and I look forward to seeing you soon! This board is a great alternative to vinyl printed signs, because they can be very limiting. Once they are printed they can not be changed out. So you either have to buy several banners or just stick to your board.

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I also like to remind the customers that each design can be changed and kids can choose their favorite colors. So under each image I write… Pick your favorite colors and let me create a work of art!

Remember, looking like a professional doesn’t have to cost you a million dollars. Good pictures, a great attitude, and professional service will pave the road to financial success.

Happy painting! -Silly Heather

FREE Bonus Downloads
Download these three, full-page and full-color designs to use in your face painting display board, courtesy of Silly Farm Supplies.

To Download these images please copy paste the following links in your browser, right-click on image and select ‘save-as’.
Image 1: http://www.fabablog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/displayboard-design1.jpg
Image 2: http://www.fabablog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/displayboard-design2.jpg
Image 3: http://www.fabablog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/displayboard-design3.jpg

Are You a Winger or a Rocker?

How well prepared do you show up for a job, competition, photo shoot or to teach a class? Do you arrive at a gig or an event ready to wing it or ready to rock it?  If you want to rock the body painting, succeed in business, be recognized as a great teacher or get that perfect image to immortalize your work, remember that it is YOU who creates this moment and that it takes preparation to experience it.

Don't Wing it, Be Prepared

First we must commit to prepare our minds and our skills by learning all we can by observation, studying and practicing our art forms. The amazing truth is that the more prepared we are, the “luckier” we get because preparation gives us confidence. Our success in anything we attempt will depend on how soon and how carefully we prepare.

Want clients to tip you? Arrive self contained and prepared to do your best with a tip jar clearly visible. Want a chance at winning the competition? Start thinking ahead of time about your design, accessories and prepare to win by practicing till you get it right? Want the image of your work to be priceless? Prepare with this in mind. Do not leave it up to the model or the photographer to think on the spot of the best ways to capture your work.  Prepare some ideas of your own.  Is your goal to be in demand as an instructor? Show up to your class prepared with an outline and well rehearsed in what you are going to share. Follow the proud motto of the Scouts and BE PREPARED. Success depends on it.

2011 Face and Body Art International Convention Body Painting Winner Andrea O’Donnell

2011 FABAIC Body Painting Winner Andrea O'Donnell

Article by Marcela Murad

The Business of Body Painting

It took Davinci 4 years to complete the Mona Lisa, which is about 30 inches by 15 inches. An average body painting, which is more than double in size of the Mona Lisa, usually takes 3-5 hours. Body Painting is still relatively new in the US, and knowing what to charge is still a very grey area for most painters. I get a lot of calls about what to charge, what you can expect to charge, and what the artists is supposed to include in their fee.

In my professional opinion, body painting has yet to become a profitable business unless you charge a nominal fee, or you have an endless supply of free paint. I have a very dear friend who is a professional body painter in Costa Rica, and an extraordinary businessman.

Rodrigo Piedra has mastered the art of booking body painting, and he has learned how to price his work and seek out clientele that can afford it. His fee is high, his work is quality, and he doesn’t compromise on the price. When he plans a body painting he includes the design fees, costs of materials, pre and post production, his team, and professional results. Because his fees are higher than average, he does less volume than some artists body painting at nightclubs and festivals. His approach to body painting is realistic and should be considered if you want to enter the body painting industry.
Body Painting by Rodrigo Piedra

Cost Vs. Time:
It takes about 3 oz to cover a full body with airbrush make up and 3 oz of paint ranges from $15-$35 depending on the brand. If you add nipple and bottom covers, adhesive, gems, other embellishments, and time to paint the actual design you could easily spend over $100 in just materials. If it takes you 3 -4 hours to paint the model, then you would need to charge over $500 to just cover your materials and time. Not many companies or agents have the budget to pay over $500 per model.

There are other ways to offer affordable body painting. Our great friend Nix Herrera, who was just recently on the Syfy channel series Face Off, is an amazing body painter and is regularly booked at nightclubs, resorts, and private functions. He is comfortable with his designs, incorporates his airbrush for faster base work, and in many cases does not cover the entire body. This speeds up his work, and allows his the time to be more detailed on other areas. Nix has also built up a closet of paint that he can expense over several jobs. If you have to purchase specific paint per job, this is where the costly part comes into consideration.

Body Art by Nix Herrera

The best way to start gauging your body painting earning potential is to make a list of designs you are comfortable with offering, how long it takes you to create that design, and doing an inventory on your face and body art supplies. Then you can lay out a plan of what you are selling and the cost associated. Otherwise you will be spinning your wheels and stressing over spilled paint and empty pockets!

Take classes from the professionals themselves! Rodrigo Piedra and Nix Herrera are on Face and Body Art Television! Visit Rodrigo’s profile page or Nix’s profile page and learn body art from the professionals!

Picture Perfect – Selling Your Canvas

I once had an argument with a fellow body painter about painting overweight models.  He felt overweight models ruined the image and that it was impossible to capture a great body painting on an over-sized canvas. I argued that art was subjective and that anything can be transformed into a work of art. That argument was sensitive to me because I have always been conscious of my body,  not that I want to be a body painting model, but I was bothered by the idea that the model makes the image.

Fast forward 6 years later. I am eating my words. I still don’t believe that body painting is only reserved for the super skinny, but I am a believer that a good model will ultimately sell your art for top value. I am still a little shaky and nervous when I body paint. The only thing that usually calms my nerves is when I paint a model I know. They set me at ease and let me be creative without being impatient or judgmental. Their attitude helps me be creative and that’s when I feel I produce my best work. I remember doing a job where the models were in a rush, they were antsy, and didn’t want paint on their faces. That was hands down one of my worst gigs, and the worst part was that several pics were taken that day so my name was attached to half ass work. Needless to say that didn’t help me garner new jobs.

Picture Perfect Group ShotNow on the flip side, when you have a model that is fun, patient, and can bring your art to life, that is a winning combination. I work with two models that always know how to bring out the best in my work. Many of you have witnessed little Lia grow through my youtube face painting videos and tutorials, her smile and charismatic personality makes my artwork that much better!  My other model of choice is Lia’s mom and my best friend for over 20 years, Glori. I have painted her 20 + times. She is a great model because she is photogenic, fun and her smile lights up the camera. A good body painting can take up to 8 hours and sometimes longer, so capturing a fantastic image is crucial.
Lia's RosesHeather painting Glori
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Picture Perfect KidsWhether you are creating a portfolio or need images for your website, don’t go for just any model. Go for the model that will sell your services with a bang! Choose a canvas that will make your artwork stand out and make it come alive. Finding a great model is like finding a needle in haystack, but it can be done. Otherwise you are doing yourself a disservice.

Happy Painting! -Silly Heather

 

Below I have embedded my YouTube channel for easy viewing. Hope you check out my face painting videos and subscribe! Enjoy!

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Face and Body Paint like a Pro for Free!

Rainbow cake designHave you ever been interested in face painting, body painting or airbrushing art?
Maybe you like to clown around and want to learn more balloon twisting?
Face and Body Art Television is an online learning website that caters to those interested in face painting, body art, clowning, balloon twisting, magic, makeup and more!

Below are some free class videos from the FabaTV Paint-A-Thon. On Dec 2nd, 2011 FabaTV invited 12 professional artists from all over the United States to film LIVE broadcasted classes for 12 hours straight throughout the day and night with hopes to reach a goal of $5,000 in donations for the Covenant House, a teen homeless shelter. With your help, FabaTV raised close to $4,000 and all of it went towards the Covenant House, to help at risk teens.

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Not a FabaTV Subscriber yet but thinking of taking a few face painting or body art classes? Already attended a class but unsure were to go from there? FabaTV gives you a break down of each product used in class videos and FabaTV’s extensive library of videos, from beginner face painting classes to more novice and advanced videos on specific designs and techniques and body painting, can start you off on the path to face painting like a pro, all while training on your own time and in the comfort of your own home!

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://fabatv.com/page/subscriptions” target=”” ]Subscribe to FabaTV![/button]

Over at Face and Body Art Television they have several of their LIVE Classes up and FREE to view!
Head on over and start your watch party now and get painting!

Free Classes from Paint-A-Thon

Pam Trent – Freddy Krueger
Watch Pam Trent transform our model with some face paint and special effects into everyone’s favorite nightmare.
Class Link: http://fabatv.com/page/video/id/65

Margi Kanter – Nose Art
Create animated fun face painting with Margi Kanters Class on nose Art.
Class Link: http://fabatv.com/page/video/id/66

James Changefield – Holiday Balloons
Take a twist with James Changefield as he shows you how to transform balloons into several holiday designs.
Class Link: http://fabatv.com/page/video/id/75

Marcela Murad – Story Tellings
Get captivated with Mama Clown’s favorite stories and tips on keeping the audience entertained.
Class Link: http://fabatv.com/page/video/id/74

Olivia Smalley – Hot Holiday Makeup
Get the skinny on the best looking holiday makeup with Olivia Smalley.
Class Link: http://fabatv.com/page/video/id/73

Cliff Turner – Airbrush Tattoos
Creating quick airbrush tattoos with Cliff Turner.
Class Link: http://fabatv.com/page/video/id/68

Jay Bautista – Holiday Ready
Face painting holiday designs class by Jay Bautista.
Class Link: http://fabatv.com/page/video/id/67

Movie Monsters – A perfect Halloween Class with Nick and Brian Wolfe

 

You don’t want to miss this free class! The evil twins of FX, Nick and Brian Wolfe are among the top face and body artists in their field and will be doing a LIVE class for FabaTV.com on Wednesday, October 12 starting 8pm EST. Freddy, Jason, Frankenstein and other classic haunts will be among the designs and creative ideas the Wolfe Brothers have in store for us.

If you are unfamiliar with Face and Body Art Television, I suggest you head on over to FabaTV.com and check it out. With 24/7 unlimited access to their entire video library of classes, a FabaTV subscription takes the scale of one on one classes with international artists right to your home. FabaTV brings you the easiest and most affordable way to take classes by artists such as Marcela Murad, Vargas, Nix Herrera and many many more!

What are you waiting for? Make sure you catch the wolfe brothers on FabaTV LIVE!

Movie Monsters with Nick and Brian Wolfe on FabaTV LIVE

Halloween Ideas – Simple Gore and a free LIVE Class

FabaTV LIVE - Simple GORE
Halloween Ready - Simple Gore

Halloween is around the corner and for face and body artists this is a busy season. What to do, ideas to paint, how to do it. It can all be very hectic. Thankfully we have FabaTV!

Join FabaTV on thursday, September 15th starting at 8PM EST for a FREE LIVE class covering all types of gore and just bloody fun ideas sure to prepare you for the Halloween season. You can watch this FREE class via http://fabatv.com/page/live