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!!

Zombie Love – Special Effects Tutorial

Zombie Love - Special Effects Tutorial
Keeping in theme with the month, here’s another Halloween inspired design. This is a quick, 2-3 minute zombie teeth design using Mehron Tooth FX, Wolfe Face Art & FX’s black & red, a stipple sponge, and some fake blood. My model today is my hubby, Henry! This is a great technique to pair with another design, as it compliments the character and brings it to life even more. Check out my last zombie tutorial you can use this with!
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  1. Clean the zombie, werewolf, or whatever fanged horror monster’s teeth and make sure they are dry. Make sure their lips don’t touch the Tooth FX for at least 20 seconds once applied.
  2. Apply the mehron tooth fx on their teeth. Remember you are blacking out the teeth to create a sharp, fanged tooth appearance.
  3. Next, apply some wolfe red and black to give a stained blood appearance.
  4. I finished this quick design using a stipple sponge and dabbing some fake, stage blood around the lips, chin, and even on the teeth for some fresh looking blood effects.

It looks like our zombie just had his first bite!
Share with us your creations that you used this technique with. We’d love to see your pictures! Post them to our facebook page or send us a tweet!

Henry's Zombie Teeth

Zombie Skin Special Effect Tutorial

Silly Farm Zombie

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The Halloween season is upon us and many gore filled nights lay ahead of us face and body artists! This gory zombie design is perfect for teens and adults that want to be transformed into the living dead for a night of fun.

I started with tearing my tissue/toilet paper into smaller pieces and applying them to the face using Spirit Gum. The spirit gum dries relatively quick. Right after that, I used the zombie skin and brushed in around the edges of the tissues, where the skin was still showing. Don’t just coat it nice and smooth, give it some texture! After the zombie skin dried, I took my FAB makeup and applied black to the eye socket then used my plum(burgundy) paints to give it a bruised look. I applied more color, judging where to apply it based on how the skin should look when it’s torn or bruised. I applied my Mehron 3D Blood Gel in areas that I wanted the blood to pop more or to look like it’s dripping. Finally I used my stipple sponge with my stage blood to give the final effects of bruised and scraped skin oozing blood.

Spotlight Artist: John Place

John Place Headshot

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

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

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

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

Special FX Gore Neck Wound by John Place

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

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

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

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

FABAtv LIVE October 16th with John Place

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outside of art, what do you do for fun?

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

Do you have any pet peeves? 

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

Where do you see yourself in a couple years?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Favorite Holiday

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check out Halloween Special Effects Tutorials on Youtube!

Syfy’s Face Off: Season 3 Premiere

Syfy's Face Off

Image Credit: FaceOff

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

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

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

Face Off Season 3 Judges

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

Spotlight Artist – Matt Valentine

FABAtv LIVE Class with Matt Valentine


Spotlight Artist Matt Valentine


Matt Valentine Banner

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

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

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

Matt Valentine Face and Body Art

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Global Fear Enterprises


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

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

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

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

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

Global Fear Enterprises

Spotlight – Rainbow Cake Winner

Rainbow Cake Dragonfly

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

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

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


Interview with Kristen Zamora

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Kristen KarzPaintz DolphinEyeDesign by Kristen of KarzPaintzFlamingo by Kristen of KarzPaintz

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


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

Spotlight Artist – Lisa Marshall

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


Spotlight Artist Lisa Marshall

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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.

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.

Fabulous in 15 – Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good

Fabulous in 15 - Glori

When I started Silly Farm I was 24 and fresh out of college. I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur. Growing up I would watch my parents and other family members work 90 hour weeks without hesitation. Working hard became the norm in my world. When it came time to run my own business working 100 hour work weeks seemed effortless. Anyone who knows me well, knows I live by a couple principles.

  1. Work hard, play hard. Life is too short to not cease opportunities that create memories and make you smile.
  2. Never leave the house less then 80%. No matter how tired, grouchy, overwhelmed, or stressed you may be, take the time to put yourself together. Iron your shirt, add a little mascara, or rock some new earrings. When you look good, you feel good, and ultimately you can do great things. No one can hide under a sheet the whole day, more than likely at some point you will need to interact with other humans. Whether at your child’s school, at the grocery store, or on a job. Create a routine where you make time to make yourself look and feel good, and I promise you will see a difference in your attitude and the way people treat you.
  3. Your best accessory is a smile. A smile is infectious, contagious, and can change someone’s day. The best part about wearing a smile is that it costs you nothing. Do your hair, add some lip gloss and smile your way out of the door. You will see how quickly your day changes when you wear a smile.
  4. Treat people how you want to be treated. When people call and complain about a product or concern they always say, “I’m sorry I don’t want to be a pain”. I always tell them that their input is appreciated and respected. I want to know the good, bad and ugly and I want the companies I love doing business with to value my opinion and care about me. Common respect and courtesy goes a long, long way in my book.

Back to the title of this blog. Two years ago my life changed dramatically. I had a gorgeous son and he turned my world upside down. So long were the days of working till midnight and getting up at 5 am to get back at my desk. So long were the quiet beer moments to myself. My days are hectic. Being a mom is harder than running four companies.

After the initial shock of a total Life changer. I sat down and re wrote my daily routine. I created a fabulous in-15-minutes routine that works for me and guarantees that I leave the house feeling and looking like a well oiled MILF entrepreneurial machine. You truly never know who and when opportunities will knock at your door. Being prepared to seize them gets you one step closer to your goal.

You don’t have to be a professional MuA or hair dresser to get your glam on! Find a nice moisturizer, invest in a flat iron and create a feel-good routine that doesn’t require a lot of time and can be realistically fit into your daily schedule. I made a quick video on my best friend Glori. I demonstrated how to get a fast fresh look in 15 minutes. I am not a make up artist, but I do know how to put myself together in a pinch. I hope you enjoy the video and I would LOVE LovE LovE to see your fabulous in 15 look.

Thank you everyone for supporting the Faba Blog, Silly Farm, FABAIC and FABAtv! You guys inspire me daily :).

-Heather


Fabulous in 15 – Youtube

Hair Flair - Color Rub
Hair Flair Color Rubs are a great way to add some colorful fun to your hair.
Color Rub is available now at Silly Farm!

The NEO AIR compressor and airbrush gun are available at Silly Farm! Browse the NEO AIR at Silly Farm.

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.

I-Candy – Free LIVE Class

I-Candy by Heather Green on FABAtv LIVE

Take your eye makeup and designs to a whole new level. Join FABAtv LIVE on Wednesday, May 16th at 8:00pm EST/EDT for a free class by Heather Green of Silly Farm Supplies. Heather will show you several funky and sexy eye makeup designs that girls will love and that also go great with a night out.

BONUS

FABAtv and Silly Farm Supplies will be raffling off a free set of brand new, unreleased Bad Ass Mini Stencils by Andrea O’Donnell to one lucky viewer! Don’t miss this class!

[button type=”button_solid_dark nocufon” url=”http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/fixedtime.html?p1=820&iso=20120516T20&msg=FABAtv+LIVE+May+16th&sort=1″ target=”on” ]Find out when FABAtv LIVE is for your Time Zone.[/button]

This previous youtube video by Heather gives a glimpse of what you can expect in this upcoming FABAtv live class.

I-Candy Makeup Tutorial – Youtube

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!

I-Candy Makeup

I-Candy Eye Makeup

In this latest video tutorial, Silly Heather paints herself for the first time on camera. She’ll show you how to pull off this sexy eye design look that’s great for a night out or clubbing. Products used are listed at the end of the video and are available at Silly Farm Supplies.

Want more designs like this? Tune in to FABAtv LIVE on May 16th for a free live class by Silly Heather on I-Candy designs.


Youtube – I-Candy Makeup

Products Used:

2012 FABAIC Checklist and a Free Year of FABAtv!

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

Win a free year subscription to FABAtv!

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

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

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

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

Newcomers Convention Checklist

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

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

FABAIC FAQ

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

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

Register for the FABAIC

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

[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.Sillyfarm.com” target=”on” ]Find your Perfect Colors at Silly Farm[/button]

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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Take a Free Makeup Class – Live on FabaTV

If you haven’t heard of FabaTV.com yet, I would suggest checking their website out. They offer a huge library of face and body art classes along with makeup classes and workshops for a fraction of the cost to take a single class in person. FabaTV goes the extra mile and airs an absolutely free, full-length LIVE class every month. Tune in Wednesday, March 14th at 8:00pm EST for this month’s free FabaTV LIVE class.

Joining us on FabaTV LIVE this month is Makeup Artist Lucianne, who will be teaching her high fashion, ‘avante garde’ beauty makeup and sharing her advanced makeup techniques with the world. You can catch the live class via http://fabatv.com/page/live.

[button type=”button_solid_light nocufon” url=”http://www.fabatv.com/page/live” target=”on” ]Go to FabaTV LIVE[/button]