Paint Me Crazy

October 2011

2011-10-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

I'm home!!! I return with plenty of awesome pictures and updates for you all! Maybe I'll just sprinkle the photos throughout the entry. :D

All of my road time with FoxKat was pleasantly uneventful. No broken parts or lost bags, maybe a new set of wiper blades, but we did well. I'm sure some folks were worried about us with the drivers-plowing-into-buildings epidemic in Buffalo.

Be sure to stop over and leave some love for MrDaggerPhoto!

You should go congratulate Foxie for doing excellent makeup and building her portfolio. She now plans to go to school to learn hair as well.

In our down time we did not visit the Botannical Gardens, the Basilica, or the Rockwell Museum. Instead, we made regular trips to Tim Hortons, dyed our hair ridiculous colors, and made a trip to the Falls. Vids on facebook :P

Katie's purple!

I also found the time to type up a couple good blurbs. Intro to Henna and All About Brushes are now up on Squidoo and (incase you haven't noticed) there is new "Articles" tab up top here. Now all of my articles, interviews, and tutorials are one click away. Forget routing threw all of my boring updates ;)

Oh, oh! My interview with makeup artist Mariluz West was finally published!

Flight of the Fish by ^JZino on deviantART

Ray, Katie Oh, Jodie, and myself.

Notice the new lil tick in front of muh username!? ^denotes gallery moderator. Yep, as of Sept 28th, I am now the new Body Art Community Volunteer on DeviantART. :D
You be your ass I'm running a Halloween Contest!
Keep an eye out for my daily body art feature tweets! I promise they're worth looking at.

Ray, Cheryll, Jodie, and myself.

So, what else?
I've gotta print more business cards already. Maybe this time I'll throw in a cool QR code. Which would just be ironic considering I'm downgrading from my crappy smartphone tomorrow. Eh, its watev. I can't take time to jerk around with a cellphone that works whenever it wants to. I don't have a free weekend coming up! Hey, people love their face painting. ;)

I hope you enjoyed the pictures, now get back to work!

Not Much

2011-09-20T00:25:00.000-07:00

I'd update more but I'm out of things to say. By the end of this week, I will be settling into Buffalo with Fox Kat. For the next 4 weeks we will be working hard and traveling! Body Paint, Makeup, and possible Henna pics to come. Not to mention sketches....o glorious sketches lol!

Yes, the Henna supplies are definitely coming with us. XD

My winter plans are solidifying but I'm scared to say anything just yet. I don't want to jinx it!

Missing my Cold Coffee interview series? Don't worry I didn't give up on it. I'm just talking with some folks about getting them published on another site where they will get some much deserved face time. Let's face it (no pun intended), they're not getting it here on my blog. Rest assured, fantastic interviews are on the way, including the amazing Makeup Artist Mariluz West!

That's it for this little teaser of an update!
I'm looking forward to hanging out with my WNY family and friends! Travel well!

Its Knot Hard- A Celtic Knotwork Tutorial

2011-08-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday! If you are on the East Coast, I hope that you are not reading this and preparing for Irene instead!

Here's a quick how-to on Celtic knotwork. I used body paint but I suppose the tutorial would be useful to just about anyone. Please excuse my stained practice pad, its seen better days lol! Just a helpful hint: Don't let paint sit on those practice pads... it stains.
Yes, they are crappy cellphone pictures but I'm sure you've got the idea.
This is free (available through deviant art) to download and share, please don't remove my website address. Thank you!

Knot Hard- A Celtic Knot Tut by ~JZino on deviant ART

Tuesday Mashup: Art News and Contests

2011-08-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Amazing street art, controversial exhibits, and some hardcore creative artists with some other crap mixed in.

Dirty Car Artist: Scott Wade

"Scott Wade is a surprising American artist. He masters the art of painting on a really unusual support : dirty car. "

World Bodypainting Festival 2011 Winners Announced!

"Festival highlights included workshops, networking events, a boat cruise, fashion shows and body-painting competitions with two themes: Haute Couture and Renaissance—Rebirth. "

Jaw-dropping Street Art- July 2011

"We declare the world as our canvas."

Inspirational Body Art by Lucy and Bart

"LucyandBart is a collaboration between Lucy McRae and Bart Hess described as an instinctual stalking of fashion, architecture, performance and the body. They share a fascination with genetic manipulation and beauty expression."

Controversial Dildo Jesus Art Show

Say whaaaaat?

"The pieces in question feature images of Jesus with large dildos fixed to their collaged surfaces, extending visibly outwards. In one offending work, Jesus's face is covered with a wooden ashtray topped by a semi-erect penis encircled by a dangling cross bracelet. In another, a large cross sculpture is adorned with a bright red dildo."

Crayon Carvings by Diem Chau

For real, this lady carves crayons, check it out!

"A Foot in Both Worlds": Sculptor Matthew Ronay on Art, Shamanism, and the Duties of the Transcendental Artist.

"Matthew Ronay's surreal sculptures exist at the boundaries of compression. His early work, bright and bold, cartoonish and lurid, suggested heady explanations and surreptitious cultural commentary. Several years ago, however, Ronay rejected this work, erasing any whiff of easy explanation or modern cynicism from his art, and arrived at a intuitive, mythological vision of sculpture. His newest exhibition, a vast "forest" installation of symbolic forms, will show at Andrea Rosen Gallery in June. "

MLK Memorial Unveiled

"It was 27 years ago when the idea of a memorial to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was first proposed to be built on the National Mall, reports CBS News Correspondent Chip Reid.

Today the public got its very first glimpse."

Contests!

DeviantART Scribble Contest

Kandee Johnson: Urban Decay Give Away

Oh My Gosh: Birthday Giveaway

Makeup City on DeviantART: Makeup Contest!

Pennsic XL Tales

2011-08-18T06:06:00.000-07:00

Sunset over Zero Night XL

The drive to Cooper's Lake, like many road trips, ends in relief. The battlefield fills with zero night campers, prepared to party until morning. Land agents toss and turn in their cars and pop tents, stealing a few hours of sleep before Land Grab.

When we parked, we discovered a little souvenir caught in the grill of the Jeep. Gotta love shredded Tractor Trailer tires. :/

Land Grab was a headache that could have been avoided but an hour and a half later we fetched the cars and headed to our new home for the following two weeks.

Our "dump everything on the ground and park," strategy has been working well. Row two parking, can't complain! Later in the war we would notice that the parking lot sign earned "FULL" plastered across it.

Set up went very smoothly and our camp had a lovely face lift for the big 4 Oh! It was so cool to finally have a fire bowl, and we used the hell out of it.

Naturally, Your Inner Vagabond topped our list of places to visit. During setup week we visited several times and I was able to catch up with old friends (and make a few new ones). I've been fighting my Turkish coffee craving since late winter. Ah...much over due :D

So wouldn't fate have it that one of the new waitresses was a face painter looking to break into the world of body paint?

I had a model booked for the night of the Mardi Gras party during war week and I invited our new friend and painter, Barb, to sit in on the session.

Katie's Henna!

Henna-ing Je

When middle Sunday rolled around, the rest of our camp arrived and settled in. Sunday was also the Henna Party so us girls made our way over there to check it out. Barb was able to make it too so we all got to sit together and make an epic Henna mess lol!

The evening of the Mardi Gras party, I painted up a gorgeous model as a Tigress. She preferred to remain anonymous so no pictures this time guys. ;)

However, the process was my first experience in personally teaching body art to someone who wants to learn it.

I have decided to force myself to teach a class next war.

I keep saying I want to and then backing out because I'm not convinced it will be well received.

Bahh! Anywho, I got to drum at my first Hafla the following night. SO COOL!!! I think I would dig a Halfa over a camp party any night. There was so much talent there!

As the sun set and midnight madness began gearing up, I sent out a couple more painted bodies. Once again, no pictures ;)

That's Barb, she's from Canada :D

I wrapped up my last night body painting for the Clan Blue Feather party. I got an awesome request for a 1 up mushroom haha! Oh and don't let me forget the belly dancer who wanted a jellyfish on her tummy so she could make it dance. XD Good times.

Ah, what a trip and I survived once more. Heat indices the first week were 100 and up! Temperatures the second week were gorgeous. Everyone had a great time and we had such a smooth setup and break down, what more can I ask for?

Our camp this yea

Good thing Barb got a picture of us. We totally forgot to snag a pic while we had the sheet walls set up. :(

We should have pics of our awesome friends and neighbors in Eldenwood too! What were we thinking!?

P.S. Stop over and thank Fox Kat Designs for several of the pictures shown here!

Mehndi : The Timeless Art of Henna Painting

The Pennsic War: A Video Documentary - Noble Edition

Pittsgrove Under Water

2011-08-15T13:31:00.000-07:00

Rt. 605 near Seeley Lake.

It looks like tales of my Pennsic journeys have been temporarily eclipsed by the hardcore storm that decided to make extreme Southern NJ its bitch.

Mid August storms like this aren't uncommon and I didn't think twice before hitting the road yesterday evening. Much to our surprise, my boyfriend and I were turned around several times by raging (yes "raging") flood water. In Pittsgrove!? Yes, it was even worse in Elmer!

Sorry I don't have pictures of my own to share. I had my cellphone with me but I was too stupefied to think of snapping pics. The image of Palatine Lake flooding the bridge and the surrounding homes will be forever burned into my mind.


The bridge over palatine lake (Olivet Rd I believe). 6abc.com

The small house on the bend approaching the Palatine Lake bridge on Olivet Road. 6abc.com

Lakes/Dams affected = all that you can name. You don't realize how many little bridges you cross everyday until they're submerged. Palatine, Parvin, Centerton, Seeley (seabrook), Elmer, Rainbow, even that little tiny stream at Deer Pen Park was overtaking the roadway.

Welcome to Historic Bridgeton! I just passed through here Saturday. 6abc.com

I snagged this from one of my buds on facebook. He's standing at Rt. 540 and Almond.

Rt. 540. CBS3.com

Seeley Lake. CBS3.com

I don't know what the news has been saying but 12 inches of rainfall was clearly measurable in buckets and swimming pools.

A picture of Sunset Lake overflowing. CBS3.com

The Burlington Rd bridge in Pittsgrove. 6abc.com photo credit Judy Sacootie

We've lost several bridges from what I understand and many roads are still closed, even though the waters have subsided today. As I type, thunder cracks. We are about to be hit by another round of heavy rain as my father carts the first trailer load of destroyed personal effects from the basement to the dump.

Round Two

We will probably be able to make another full load by the time this is over.

Relatively, this isn't bad at all. Very little water has come in, meanwhile sump pumps in Elmer are running around the clock and Anderson's General Store has a lake for a basement.

I learned the hard way, the day after Christmas of '09, never to leave anything on a basement floor. I bid adieu to many paintings and sketchbooks.

This entry is more or less dedicated to friends and family away from home or overseas who cannot imagine so much water in town. I know damn well that if I was away and someone was narrating the scene at the Centerton Inn to me, I'd have called them a teller of tall tales!

The Centerton Inn is behind you and Anderson's to the left.

Cold Coffee with Joanne Kinsey

2011-07-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

An experienced needle artist and teacher of many years, Joanne takes a few minutes to answer these artsy questions. Keep on reading til your coffee grows cold and feel free to recommend future interviewees!

[J] Have you always been a creative, artistically inclined person?

[JK] I have always loved creating things and doing projects. I consider myself a creative thinker and creative with projects. Textiles, weaving, and needlework have long been my passion.

[J] How were you introduced to the arts?

[JK] When I was a child my maternal grandmother taught me how to knit. When I was in 8^th grade my parents bought me a set of knitting needles and I still use them today. In my last year of high school I was able to major in art and home economics and I was able to explore various arts in more depth. I was very fortunate to have excellent teachers in both of those areas. They allowed their students to choose independent projects.

[J] Did your family recognize your talent? How did they foster it…or hinder it?

[JK] My family has always encouraged my love of arts and crafts projects. I remember as a child they would often have me show my projects to my grandparents. My family supported my desire to become an art educator by helping me attend college for that purpose. In fact, my father basically taught me to sew (both of his parents were tailors) and later, while I was in college I taught my mother to sew!

[J ]Did you have role models or highly inspirational figures in the art field that you looked up to?

[JK] As I learn more about various needle arts I look to see who is publishing books and patterns.

[J] When did you discover your favorite media? Is your favorite medium the “money maker?”

[JK] Over the years my favorite has settled into quilting, knitting and counted cross-stitch. Although I started sewing at an early age, I didn’t start quilting until I was older. When I was teaching at Glassboro High School in the early ‘80’s I taught cross-stitch and quilting. I quickly learned both skills and instantly fell in love with them. I spent many years sewing (making clothing, curtains, pillows, & blankets for people as a money maker. It was challenging and fun to create items for other people because it gave me opportunities to work with new fabrics and techniques. I have sewn clothing for a handicapped woman, a child equestrian, wedding gowns, lots of bridesmaids dresses, christening outfits for boys and girls, coats, and ladies suits. My most challenging project was sewing 80 blazers for a middle school band! I subcontracted with a few friends to help make the jackets to meet the deadline! In recent years I knitted wool purses and felted them, added embelishments then sold the bags to friends, neighbors, and even at a few arts fairs/festivals.

[J] What type of art education did you receive? Public school, extracurricular, college level?

[JK] I was an art & home economics major in high school, then entered college (Glassboro State College, now Rowan University) as an art education major. Years later I graduated from Drexel University with a Master’s Degree in Home Economics. Since then I have accumulated more than 60 post-graduate credits by taking graduate courses related to education

[J]Do you do art full time or do you have a day job?

[JK]I work full time so needle arts is a hobby. In retirement I hope to focus on a variety of projects and have time to complete them!.

[J]Artists that go professional frequently turn to a new hobby or interest as a form of expression or stress relief. Has work taken the fun out of art for you? How have you coped?

[JK] I still love needle arts and use it as a stress reliever! When I get too caught up in work I find a few hours of sewing works perfectly to get me back into balance.

[J] What do you like to do when you need inspiration? How would you cope with artists block?

[JK] When I see interesting fabric that would be appropriate for a quilt for a family member or friend I am inspired to get to work on the project. Artists block….hmmm…I have so many projects lined up to be done and so little time to do them, I don’t know if would ever have artists block.

[J] Where do you see yourself in 5 or even 10 years?

[JK] I expect to continue working on various projects. My legacy to my nieces/nephews and children of close friends has been to make a quilt for each one of themJ In ten years I will probably be retired and stitching items for friends and family, just as I have done for most of my life.

[J] What do you get out of your work, from a personal standpoint?

[JK] I get stress relief and the satisfaction that I am able to give people hand-made gifts as much as possible. I think giving a hand-made gift is more special than just buying something for a person.

[J] What advice would you give to aspiring artists, especially those with an interest in your particular media?

[JK] I would tell them to keep exploring within their passion and try to continually expand their skills.

About Joanne:

Joanne Kinsey, Family & Community Health Sciences Assistant Professor for Rutgers University, and former Family & Consumer Sciences educator, specializes in the development of workplace wellness programs and healthy lifestyle/wellness programs for students and their families. Joanne loves to work on a variety of needle arts and quilting projects in her spare time. Spending a few minutes (or better yet hours) working on a project or quilt provides life’s balance!

www.rutgers-atlantic.org/fchs

http://fcsedu-connector.blogspot.com/

Some Tuesday Thoughts

2011-07-19T16:20:00.000-07:00

Its finally raining! We've needed rain so bad but this front is only bringing more heat to the area. South Jersey will be roasting for the next 5 days. :(

At least I will be spending time in the basement anyway. I'm still only about 60% finished with all of the garb making. Most intimidating garments? Japanese medieval garb. It doesn't look half as complicated as the fancy, romantic collared shirts but I have never made kimono before.

Business-wise, I have had a few setbacks and quite a few changes in my plans so far. The rest of the year is looking pretty busy though! At least, I INTEND to keep myself busy. :) Especially if I plan on going back to school in Fall 2012... Now now, not letting any cats out of potential baggies. I'm keeping those plans under wraps until I know for sure what's good.

On a side not, if I have contacted you about Cold Coffee Sundays or if I have already sent you the questions, please get back to me ASAP!

I've got two more videos on the way, I just need to polish them up for the tube. I've been putting it off with all that has been going on at home. I promise lots of Pennsic pictures...if my droid lives through the ordeal.

Have you checked out my Squidoo lenses yet?

On this lovely, humid, stormy, Tuesday I leave you with one of my favorite inspirational photos from the offices of one of the leading advertising firms, Chiat Day (now TBWA\Chiat\Day).

I snagged this image from ( http://www.flickr.com/photos/ohbejoyful/183876784/in/set-72157594191041847 ). Check out the link for this innocent bystander's full set, includes close-ups.

The negative space is comprised, entirely, of thumbtacks. I love it, think about it.

A Cold Coffee Sunday with Kazuki Kozuru-Salifoska

2011-07-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well we've finally made it to our inaugural Sunday and I bet you're wondering how it got its name. Have you ever sat down to your morning emails with a cup of Joe. One thing leads to another and next thing you know, you've become totally engrossed in an interesting article or thread. You blindly reach for your mug while reading down to the very last blurb, when it finally reaches your lips *peh* its cold again. :( What an awesome bummer. That's how I rate my articles I guess. :)

So without further ado, I'd like you to meet Kazuki, the woman who inspired me to pick up a doumbek at Pennsic 35.

--------

[J] Have you always been a creative, artistically inclined person?

[Kazuki] Yes. Think as a way to escape the reality, as a child.

[J] How were you introduced to the arts?

[Kazuki] My parents were always blasting music in my childhood - Beatles, Elvis, and ahaha ABBA, along with some Japanese pop singer-song-writer types. I was more interested in the visual arts, since the school supply had the watercolor paints on the 1st grade.

[J] Did your family recognize your talent? How did they foster it…or
hinder it?
[Kazuki] My parents thought I had no creative talent. They made sure I knew
that growing up. They thought my younger brother and sister were more
talented. So, naturally, I spent more time drawing away.

[J] Did you have role models or highly inspirational figures in the art
field that you looked up to?
[Kazuki] As a child, I loved El Grego's paintings. That subtle distortion
appealed to me. The whole Virgin Mary thing, I had no idea about the
"virgin" bit, but I knew she was the mother of a savior and I loved the way
El Grego painted her. It felt other-worldly.

[J] When did you discover your favorite media? Is your favorite medium the
“money maker?”

[Kazuki] I have several favorite media - in music, in visual art, and now in
fashion design. And none of them makes me much money. Although fashion
design is what I do for a living now. And I do like it. It brings the good balance in me, between fantastical and realistic. Having the boundaries and playing inside them.

[J] What type of art education did you receive? Public school,
extracurricular, college level?
[Kazuki] I grew up in Japan, so arts were integral to education. It still
is, I think. From 1st grade through 6th which is the elementary school, you
do visual arts, music, and calligraphy at least once a week each. Or twice??
Can't remember.

In middle school, which is 7th through 9th grade, you have music at least once a week - or was it twice? And then you choose between
visual arts and calligraphy.

In high school, I think you choose between
visual arts and music. This is all public school. I did this, then I was
drawing at home and during math classes. In high school, I was in a garage
band and art club, so after school and on weekends, whenever I wasn't
playing tennis, I was playing music and painting. On the last year of high
school, I remember my math teacher checking to see I was around by poking
his head in the art club room, during math class, as I was painting. It's a
wonder how I passed math in high school.

For college, I came to this country and went to a small community college in Maryland, thinking I was going to be a painter here. I was majoring in fine arts, and when it came
to the time to transfer to a 4 year college, I realized I really didn't
fancy being a starving artist. So I decided to do fashion. just decided
pretty randomly. It was the only applied-arts field I could think of. I
was going to a small university in Georgia, because it was less expensive
than others. I was accepted with just a portfolio review.

I had also applied to Otis, RISD, and Parsons, and I was about to stop the whole
process when I got an acceptance letter from Parsons. The counselor lady
from the school in Georgia was calling me almost every week to check in, to
chat, to I guess make sure I was getting ready to go to her school when I
got the letter from Parsons, so I mentioned it to her, like "I just got
accepted into Parsons. Oh well. I'm not going there anyway." To which she
said, "I'm not supposed to tell you this, but if you got accepted to
Parsons, that's the school you should go. Don't come to Georgia." I wish I
remembered the lady's name. That was a big turn she initiated in my life.
Now that I have worked as a fashion designer for about 20 years, and have
hired assistants on several occasions, I know of course I should have gone
to Parsons. The lady saved me. Really.

[J] Do you do art full time or do you have a day job?
[Kazuki] If you call fashion design art, then that's what I do full time.
music, though, is a fun thing on the side. I do get paid, but not enough,
and not often enough. And no one pays me to paint or draw. Although now
that I own a store, I do all the fliers and photoshoot and web design, so
that's art, I guess. I guess everything I do uses art somehow.

[J] Artists that go professional frequently turn to a new hobby or
interest as a form of expression or stress relief. Has work taken the
fun out of art for you? How have you coped?

[Kazuki] I think I turned to music because fashion design got a bit one-dimensional for me. I love it as a means of making a living, but it is good to have something that isn't really linked to making money. I play music for the sake of music, not really for money.

[J]What do you like to do when you need inspiration? How would you cope
with artists block?

[Kazuki] I heard a great quote on NPR by Stephen King. "Amateurs sit and
wait for inspiration, the rest of us just get up and go to work."
— Stephen King (On Writing)

This is exactly how I deal with all my creative
outlets. For money or not. In fashion, there is definitely no room for
waiting for anything. There are market weeks and samples have to be in the
showrooms by that date and everything needs to be done yesterday. In music,
when I decided to record an album, I just sat down and kept on drumming til
songs came. There were some songs I recorded which inspiration or ideas
came to me, and others were just banged out. Drawing, too - there are days
when I feel off, and everything I draw looks awful. But then I just keep
drawing til I can say, "not great, but acceptable." I think going to
fashion school trained me to work within imperfection. Taught me that if
you strive only for the greatest idea and execution, you will never meet the
deadline. So, forget the whole being inspired thing. Creative process is
not romantic.

[J] Do you find that your favorite piece and the viewers’ most beloved
image are two different things? I’ve frequently run into this problem
and I’d love to hear your response. How do you handle compliments or
special recognition for an image that you feel isn’t your best?

[Kazuki] Oh yeah. In fashion, what I love usually doesn't sell. Ahahaha.
This is common. My designer friends all say the same thing. The ones I
think are too obvious or passé sell. Which is painful, but unless you are
the European high-end designer, that's just how it is.
In music, though, my most favorite song in my little album got picked up by
several dance troops for their choreography. That was nice. Maybe other
songs just sucked... who knows? I can't listen to that album without feeling
a bit nauseous so I haven't listened to it since I made it. (I was pregnant
and was in the first trimester while recording and mixing, so I was a bit
queasy at the time. so whenever I listen to any of the songs from that
album, queasiness comes back, along with the shame on hearing every mistake
I made on every song.)

[J] What do you get out of your work, from a personal standpoint?
[Kazuki] From fashion, and now owning a store, I am trying to make a living.
But at the same time, I am making this world a prettier place one piece of
garment at a time. Because it is my own line, I am creating more of what I
like, rather than what I think would sell. and spreading the appreciation of
creation process by owning the store that I do. Did I tell you about my
store? check out www.creators-coop.com

From music, I get a different focal point in my soul.

[J] What advice would you give to aspiring artists, especially those with
an interest in your particular media?

[Kazuki] Do what you love, and do it really, really hard. After focusing on doing it really, really hard for a long time, if you are hungry, you can go and get a day job. And do what you love really, really hard at night.

-----

Thank you so much Kazuki, for allowing us to peer into your amazing, creative life! I hope that others will take something from what you have learned and your great advice.

If you have not already, I urge you to stop by Kazuki's shop and her blog! She's on Facebook too!

Summertime

2011-06-30T04:22:00.000-07:00

And there still aren't enough hours in the day! Where have I been?

Well, I joined Squidoo and I've been working hard to get a couple of good lenses together!

Please don't forget, its that time of year again...

Katie and meee at Pennsic War XXXVII

Pennsic, Pennsic time is near! Which means long hours spent in the basement sewing garb for the household. Yes, The Art Hearth returns! Bigger and badder than ever.

A certain foxy kat is back from the west and causing a ruckus in the grove. My PIC and I have been catching up, working on garb together, and brainstorming new ways to take over the art world. In other words, things are back to normal. :D

In other news, my lovely cousin is getting married this weekend and so I will be doing makeup for my very first bridal party! Exra :D

What about my body painting adventures? Postponed until September at the earliest. You know how that goes- make plans and they fall through, make better plans and they blow up. I figured it was best to drop it until the fall.

Yes, I have gotten the ball rolling for my Cold Coffee Sundays! Artist interviews coming soon.

Know your Idols: Milt Kahl

2011-06-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Milt Kahl (1909-1987)

Referred to as “The Animation Michelangelo,” Milt Kahl was one of “Disney’s Nine Old Men.” This master draftsman was assigned the toughest characters of any project, predominately human subjects. Kahl is known for his work, bringing some of Disney’s most notable characters to life, in Peter pan, Alice in Wonderland, Pinocchio, The Sword in the Stone, Robin Hood, The Jungle Book, and many others.

Born and raised in San Francisco, Kahl dropped out of high school to pursue a career in art. While studying with local artists, he would create layouts for Oakland Post-Enquirer and the San Francisco Bulletin. Ultimately Kahl went into business for himself, but his timing was poor. The Great Depression struck hard across the United States and it was during this time that Walt Disney’s Silly Symphonies gained recognition.

Disney took on Kahl in 1934, the same year he began work on what was referred to as “Disney’s Folly.” Of course, we refer to it today as Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, the first full-length animated feature film made in Technicolor in America and the most successful motion picture of 1938. This film marks the beginning of “The Golden Age of Animation.” Shortly after joining Disney, Kahl became one of his core animators, all of which are considered legends today or “Disney’s Nine Old Men.” As a team they garnered much respect and they are credited with refining The 12 Basic Principles of Animation, and essentially blazing a trail for future generations.

In 1976, Kahl retired and moved back to San Francisco and in 1987 America lost another star.

In 1989, he was officially recognized as one of the Disney Legends http://legends.disney.go.com/legends/detail?key=Milt+Kahl

Read in interview with Milt Kahl-

http://www.michaelbarrier.com/Interviews/Kahl/Kahl.html

IMDB http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0434724/

Cold Coffee Sundays

2011-05-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

I think that will be the name of my interviews and guest writers if I can get the ball rolling. I'm just a little intimidated by the whole process.

Aside from future blog plans, I wanted to post some content ICYMI (In Case You Missed It).
1. Liquid Steely Face Paint
2. Dead Pool!
3. Some additional notes inspired by EnKore's Makeup Face Chart tutorials.

Also, there are some really good contests ending soon!
We've got James Gurney's Envelope contest ending this month. DisastrousGlam's Sugary Sweet Contest, Illusion Magazine's Butterfly Face Painting Competition, and Lime Crime Makeup's Cartoon Contest on Facebook. I can't find the official information for Lime Crime but I know it exists! :(

Thursday Tutorial

2011-05-14T09:54:00.000-07:00

Here's Thursday's Face Painting Tutorial a few days late. Not my fault though! Blogger totally went down for maintenance and trashed my blog! Grrrr....

Kang Thang - Face Painting Tut by *JZino on deviant ART

Mornings

2011-05-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

First, credit where credit is due. Ever since I read Kate Jones' blog entry on "Mornings", I've been conscious of how I start my day. Her post highlights the ebook "How to be a Morning Goddess" which I would recommend to all of my lady friends!

The idea is pretty basic, the way you start your morning absolutely affects the rest of your day. The author asked 20 of her friends how they start their day, an ebook was born.

So how do I start my mornings?

Ideally, I wake up naturally at a reasonable hour lol. I peek at my droid for any super important news before I make the decision to disturb Michael (he's usually curled up on top of me). I make a mug of coffee and perch on the front steps with my doggies. I find that the sunlight + coffee wakes me up faster than staring at a laptop. If weather is not permitting, I sit in the brown, cushy recliner with roughly the same view of the front yard. Mike likes that better, he can chase me down and curl up on me again. ; )

When I ultimately decide I am alert enough to type coherently, I return to my upstairs lair. Not without giving the doggies their treats, of course! I open the shades and crack the balcony door before I settle into one of the creakiest desk chairs in existence. :P It doesn't bother me but it has seen better days!

Then its time to wake the laptop. FireFox, Skype, TweetDeck, .Mail, Thunderbird, iCal, iTunes, and (never without) Stickies come to life. I'm one connected SOB. I try to knock out any social media type tasks before I get to the meaty part of my day.
The only problem with the schedule is that it is very easy for me to completely forget about breakfast. So after sitting for sometime, I tend to wander downstairs for a snack and then later wonder why my belly is still grumbling. A stick of string cheese is not really sustenance. : P

There's no right or wrong way to start a morning, so how do you start yours?

Wow its May

2011-05-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

Well that was quick...
Happy Cinco de Mayo! Be safe!

I left off in Missouri in early April. Almost a month later, I'm in NJ plotting my next trip. I feel just a little like Stewie, scheming a world-takeover. What could I possibly be up to?

Learning- Makeup and Special Effects.
Drawing- Traditional and Digital portfolio work.
And, as always, sketching up my latest naked lady ideas.
Planning- Tour this June!

I've had to sacrifice some of my social networking lately. There hasn't been much activity from me on Model Mayhem or DeviantART though I still love them both! I just need some time to myself to hone my craft and replenish my kit before I hit the road hard again!

I hope to solidify dates within the next week and begin booking asap. The only rule is that I have to be back in dirty Jersey by July 2nd!

There is a project I've had brewing for a while. Now that I will finally be learning life casting, hopefully I will have the opportunity to bring it to life. I've seen some body art on plastic mannequin shells but I think it looks cheap or cheezy.

I would love to body cast amazing poses, frozen in time, and paint them to be lasting works of art that won't be sacrificed in the shower later.

I'm not ready to put out any type of casting yet but I will definitely keep some models in mind if they express interest in the project.

So there ya have it, just a quick blurb so you know where I disappeared to! :)

Awards and Recognition (and what it means to me).

2011-04-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

This one simple rule goes for everybody! Models, Photographers, MUA, wtf-ever it is that you do- You are judged in the real world by how well you can sell a product.

Give me a second, so I can take five to wipe my ass with your 1^st place awards, Best In Show Recognition, or self-appointed title of your choosing (“Master” is my favorite).

Realistically, all these Daily Deviations, Showcases, and Pic of the Day type of awards and recognition don’t mean squat. I appreciate them, they give me a warm fuzzy feeling. They make me feel like a part of the online community but that’s where it ends. This attention is pseudo-fame. These kudos do not go beyond the art world. For some people, that’s all they’re looking for.

There are also self-serving competitions and magazines that are catered to a select niche of the industry. It doesn’t matter if you placed at a body paint jam downtown or at the World Body Painting Festival in Europe. At the end of the day, you’re still nobody. There might be an article published about you or you may make the cover of a niche magazine, but the exposure is still poor at best.

I imagine this is all the fodder of frustrated minds, desperate for a way to collect honors. What better way than to create your own publication or award! Its all smoke and mirrors.

Tearsheets in real magazines that reach the public speak volumes.

You, random reader! Quickly name a successful body painter!

Do it now!

Well…you probably don’t know their names but I bet you know their work. The top images on my mind are the Sports Illustrated Body Paint Swimsuits. Joanne Gair is a successful body painter. I wonder how many body art conventions she’s been too…

How about the artists behind the Delta Faucets ads (Tyson Fountaine) or the entire AT&T campaign focused on painted hands (Guido Daniele)?

Who are they!? I must’ve missed their names, plastered on the fliers for the next convention in the circuit... (sarcasm)

And just to clarify, I don’t think being hired by a multi-million dollar company to paint makes you a sell out. I think that allowing a company to buy your name or charging $100+ a head for “class” should be kind of embarrassing. Don’t you?

New Rates as of March 31st

2011-03-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

Why did your rates go up?

A great question that has a few good catalysts!

First of all, I’m not a business savvy woman, and I don’t pretend to be, so I couldn’t tell you what the proper reasons are to raise your rates. All I know is, I want to be taken seriously, I want to be competitive, and I want to make a living. That last part though is like asking for the world these days. Oh and let’s not forget this stipulation- I don’t want to sell out!

This plan already sounds screwed doesn’t it?

I have a feeling if you know anything about freelancing you know a little something about people trying to walk on you. Trying to have a professional conversation,

“with ppl who writ lik this ppl who cant find the time for puntchewatin or spelcheker and somehow cant find the time to actualy read the profesional response you just sent thim is getting rilly old.”

I want my rates to say, “If you can’t feign professionalism, don’t bother.” I sincerely hate being made to feel as though I am talking to a wall. J

A few weeks ago I had an epiphany. I was reading up on Stranger in a Strange Land (not actually reading it though, don’t have a copy yet) when I came to the Grokkery blog. “There’s no such thing as a free lunch…” the article started out. About half way through, I took a pause. I realized what everyone had been needling me about! I don’t value my time and the way I’ve been doing business reflects that.

The going rates of my contemporaries DO reflect value of their time and effort and an air of professionalism AND I need to live up to that.

As far as making a living…well, that sounds so impossible sometimes. When I toured in October (21 days, 15 bodies), I broke even.

So?

No, that’s it. I broke even.

Well, epic face and kudos!

Yeah, I didn’t run out of gas or end up sleeping in the Jeep but I didn’t have much left over to put back into the business either.

…not-so-epic face.

Well then there you have it.

10 Beneficial Things Artists Should Ask Themselves

2011-03-08T17:17:00.000-08:00

These questions were posted by Imaginism Studios on DeviantART.

Here's 10 important questions to ask yourself. Read them constantly as a checklist to make sure your are heading in the right direction and using your artistic potential.

1. What motivates you to create art? Write down your answer and think about how you can use this very important information.

A: Now there's an excellent question I'm not sure I know the answer to. Before body art, it was self-expression. Nowadays, I find myself working out of blind ambition and the dire need for income.

2. What kinds of information have you been putting on the internet? The internet is the new resume. If I can find dumb pics or comments from you then other people can too...

A: Lol! I think I untagged most of the awesome high school pictures. I try to flood the internet with my work. Flood is probably a good word for it, I've got a profile everywhere. I try to keep a good bit of "me" mixed in there too. Serena Star just wrote an awesome blog about censoring yourself in the name of good business and our perception of normal. Is Maturing the opposite of Growth?

3. Does your art express something interesting? Great art means something to its viewers, not just its creator.

A: Oh, I think they're finding it interesting.

4. Does failure push you forward? How you deal with failure will determine how skillfull you will become.

A: Amen! Everyone has had a good "Swing and a miss" ...or two...or five! They all don't have the balls to admit though.

5. Do you enjoy arguing or flaming people's work? If you are the type of person to hate on others, it will come back to you. Especially with the internet and all the social networking.

A: Don't ever write something expecting people not to read it. I can't say I enjoy arguing or flaming people's work. If I run into a D-bag on the interwebs I have a tendency to walk away...or just delete their comment. Not dealing with it.

6. Do you try out new methods/materials/subjects that might be uncomfortable at first? Success is inevitable if you always choose to believe "It is my obligation to try."

A: Yep, back to that whole "Swing and a miss" thing again.

7. Do you have a strong purpose or goal? When you have a purpose, you stand by it. Something special happens when you show an undying drive to achieve a goal.

A: Uh, no...I guess I'm missing something. :(
I can't find a direction for body art and I haven't seen a direction anyone else is going in that I care for. I don't believe in charging for knowledge and I'm not real crazy about painting mobs of kids.

8. Are you open to meeting new people and hearing others opinions with an open mind? Your heart & mind are the gates to success & happiness. Keep them open or miss out on great opportunities.

A: Definitely.

9. You can either let your environment shape you or choose YOURSELF to be who you want to be. The body & mind can be shaped into almost any type of person you wish to be. You just have to train it through persistence & constant search for knowledge. (*I started to be "good" in art when I decided to be extremely serious about it.) What kind of person do you want to be?

A: I'm not sure. I suppose I'd like to be a successful, independent artist and some sort of role model. Like, someone that people look at and go, "Look what she did with nothing."

10.Do you constantly think about your goals? The best way to accomplish a goal is to have it on your mind all the time. Keep thinking about it until you obtain your goal. I'm not the first to say this one but I can't emphasize it enough.

A: I'm not sure what my goals are except to be successful which is kind of vague. I really want to be published but I have no idea how to pursue it.

I want to be able to come back to these questions a few months from now with better answers and perspective.

Have fun with these, I think they're great brain prodders.

Watching Ice...

2011-02-23T09:57:00.000-08:00

Watching ice melt on the skylight, its one of my more exciting hobbies. I imagine that's what a glacier looks like, if you could see it from beneath.

As you might have noticed I'm back from NY. My friends wouldn't let me leave without sampling some of Buffalo's finest cuisine. :D

After walking up 3 flights of stairs 1 million times, we all kind of looked like this. *collapse*
But in the end, it was so worth it.
I don't know if there's a title for this yet. This is what happens when you get a Makeup Artist, Hairstylist, and Body Painter in the same room. That hot red hair spray was like radioactive, nuclear fall out or something. I'm still finding it, a week later. :) I can only image the model is still oozing hot red coloring as well.

Photographer: Ian Gattie
Model: Catherine Johnson
Makeup: Andrea Losecco
Hair: Jessica Jean
Location: The Piranha Studios

One of my last stops, aside from Louie's, was the casino. I'm not a gambler, but I got to chill in the fancy hotel with friends and take awesome cellphone pics of Niagara Falls (the city not the wonder) from the 23rd floor. Check out that sunrise!

Don't worry, homies, I'll be back in NY at the end of March...and it will probably still be covered in ice. Check the MM for up-to-date travel info!
.....

Ironically, the same morning I was taking the sunrise pic, I got a pic from Ray. I'm sure he misses us terribly from Siesta Key. >_> Keep rubbing it in!

......

P.S. I got another DD!!!!!!!

Thank you Brian Neumann (photographer) and Artistic Physique (model)!!!

Happy Valentine’s Day, Buffalo

2011-02-14T20:30:00.001-08:00

A very smooth and enjoyably eventful trip! That Jeep from Jersey has been out and about but it hasn’t been f@!#ing up any traffic lately.

I forgot how long the drive was and there was no good music on for most of the eight and half hours. :/

It’s cool though, getting here is like coming home. I get to loaf in my room and hang out with my doggie friend. I sleep late and listen to people freak out at the Burger King drive-thru.

Sometimes JenJen and Ian take me for rides in the car!

A side view of the mansion. The studio is on the third floor.

But no seriously, I got to see The Piranha Studios for the first time Friday. Then I got to go out and make new friends :)

Saturday I learned how not to drive in the snow, while running last minute errands for the Meet and Greet.

The studio had a wonderful turnout that night! I whipped up a quick design for Catherine’s back and got to have people watch me do muh thang!

It worked out as far as having plenty of time to do some painting and actually talk to people. I even shnagged some video.

I didn’t get home and settle in bed until midnight! It was a long day.

Sunday was pretty interesting…

I learned where not to leave my shoes...So Sunday I got new kicks.

I couldn’t be home with muh manz for Valentine’s Day so I decided to spend some time with one of my favorite NY friends over at Spot Coffee. :)

Oh, by the way, its freezing here, they don’t make a winter coat big enough for this kind of cold, I think I literally froze my ass off, and I managed to put my chapstick through the wash…so I no longer have lips.

Kthanksbye!

P.S. My fur child turned 13 today!

Love, That's Enough For Me

2011-02-07T12:19:00.000-08:00

Just a few more days before I hit the road for Buffalo...O lovely, frozen tundra...I miss you.

Piranha studios Meet & Greet! Be there!
I'll be painting the lovely Catherine...and I'll be keeping it family friendly.

I hope everybody's diggin' the vids! Beastin' without stencils or airbrush. You know how I roll!
I plan on recording the family friendly painting of Catherine this weekend. :D Hopefully I will have it up by Valentine's Day!

So how's that Yoga challenge going?
Well...pretty ok I think. I'm definitely not pulling off a 21 "consecutive" days accomplishment, but its still helping a lot. Especially with all these hours spent in a desk chair. My Christmas puffiness went down! You know...that side effect of yummy Italian Christmas Cookies.

Speaking of Italian...
Have you seen the blog of Jessica Padilla!??!
If you have any love for Italy or Art History, you'll vicariously enjoy her adventures studying abroad. Oh to experience the food, culture, and (of course) the astounding work of the Renaissance masters in person...epic face!

That's Jess on the left!

So Dave Star is whooping my a$$ in our little challenge. Who will get into the Masters Folder of the Graphite Gods group first? I haven't finished my first submission yet, I think Dave's on his third.

Eye Series 03 by *Dave-Star on deviant ART

Eye Series 02 by *Dave-Star on deviant ART

My sister demands letters! If you want to write her and you don't already have her army addy, PM me!

My sister is on the right...can you tell? haha!

And the rest is just whatever...

P.S. Really cool article on Art Exhibit featuring Buffalo Grain Elevators.

A Hitchhiker's Guide to Revolutionary Thought

2011-01-28T19:46:00.000-08:00

You only pack what you can carry.

Get ready, because I'm going to tell you about some things that you may find either believable or impossible. I think that a revolutionary way of thinking is in order these days, you know?

What if I told you that I think you can hitchhike over 300 miles in today's day and age and not become a missing person or victim?

What if I said that obtaining that societal ideal 9-5 job, for me, is not a success?

What if I said that the News, Politics, Religion, and other highly controversial topics could be part of the problem? A deterrent from that whole "thinking outside the box" thing.

( I just committed one of the cardinal blogging sins by the way, "never mention politics and religion.")<---I might be able to justify this, if you stick with me for a moment.

I was perusing the blog of Kate Jones, which ultimately led me to this PDF on the "Connection Revolution."
Its not terribly long and only requiring, sayyy... about 45 minutes of my time...so less time to watch the news! An engaging and inspiring read, the whole way through, on changing the way we think on a very basic level. I'm not talking butterflies and ponies, here.

"The Connection Revolution isn’t
like the American Revolution
or the French Revolution. The
Connection Revolution is like
the Industrial Revolution, like the
Renaissance."

There were several key points that I took away from it, and some were there that I already agreed with.

"...we're living in a giant jerk-creating factory."

That sounds kind of childish at first maybe? Think about it. I woke up in a good mood, some dude cut me off on the way to the studio, I flip the wrong guy the bird! ( I don't know how but lets not focus on the wrong part of the story) I've just passed along a total jerk move.
Our recipient of the wrong bird proceeds to make the "WTF!?" face and then turns that confusion into impatience and maybe heeeee....steals someone else's parking spot later that morning. The wheel of jerk spins.
Stop birding me! We can stop this.

(The actual writing speaks about the jerk factory on a much more sensible, global level. I'm just weird.)

I think I've digressed.

How do you start your day, by the way?
Since I've been alive and remembering random things, my parents wake up between 5 and 6am and turn on the news. The sound of early morning traffic and weather reports helps ME wake up. I hardly ever watch TV! When I'm away from home for long or staying at a hotel, I begin waking up at 6am just to catch the news. It reminds me of home, why not?

Have you ever thought about the crap you are constantly bombarded with when you do watch the news? Yeah, its miserable! When I suggested the possibility of hitchhiking over 300 miles, you more than likely thought "LOL! Yeah, no let's not die today."

"We numb our minds with TV, video games, and drugs..."

People are being shot and killed all the time, I saw it on the news! Well what if we stopped surrounding ourselves with that negativity that isolates us and makes as weary of others. Don't we typically perceive strangers as untrustworthy? After all, Mom said, "Don't talk to strangers."

"Steeping ourselves in this
negativity keeps us from focusing
on the positive."

Not to say that creepers aren't out there but I really don't feel like being reminded of the ones that are ALL the time. Shit, no wonder people won't leave their houses.

What if you "Opt Out of the News"
or "Opt Out of the Job Culture"
and maybe "Opt Out of Politics"
or my personal favorite "Opt Out of Public School" among others.

But how is that possible? Our culture and the way we are taught to think doesn't allow these options to be feasible. That's the kind of stuff that is spoken about in that little pdf file, thought provoking stuff. There's some thought behind it, its not hippie stuff...at least not anymore.

Wow, though...That sounded like a lot of disconnection, where's "The Connection?"

"We teach. We paint. We act. We
become public speakers. We make
movies. We sculpt. We make music.
We write books, we write blogs, and
we write manifestos."

What if you spoke openly and honestly and not like Miss America? What if you made friends of diverse lifestyles and backgrounds. (What if you went to Pennsic! :D).

For example...I know a Muslim American...She's one of the most talented artists I've ever met.
I know a Lesbian...she's smart as a whip and an extremely hard worker.

By broadening your social circle by one or two people...maybe gay rights, discrimination laws, etc. are no longer just words on a political agenda. Eh?
Maybe they'd become real concerns of PEOPLE that YOU care about.

"Just ideas. World-changing ideas."

So, what the shit am I getting at???

I think I'd like to CHOOSE not to be surrounded by negative thoughts or people. Choose to have a large and diverse posse of crazy, cool friends. Choose to constantly expose myself to new and exciting things. Choose to start my own business instead of work for the man! And choose to create a spirituality that suits me...after all, I create everything else.

------
BTW

During the summer of 2009...in a galaxy far, far away...

I hopped in the car with a friend of a friend for land grab of Pennsic 38...Its near Pittsburgh.
A photographer (whom I had never met) calls and says, "I will do whatever it takes to have you at my Meet, Greet, and Shoot Out." A week later while I am still at Pennsic, I get in the car with a girl I had never met before (friend of the photographer I had never met before) and we travel to Harrisburg. She liked me enough to give me a ride back, afterward. :)

During War Week, a friend in Buffalo gives me a call, she says, "You should totally come out!"
I was still asking around for a ride North as the week drew to a close. By an absolute turn of the karmic wheel, I landed in the right place at the right time. Two people I still know only as "Mike and Becky from Ithaca" gave me a lift.

I ended up buying a bus ticket home from Buffalo. I figured I had already gambled enough. :)
An incredible three weeks of living out of a bag. I should write a book about it.

Oh and that friend from Buffalo? I met her in early spring of '09 while I was visiting town on body paint business. I had landed myself smack dab in the middle of a city, where I didn't have any friends or family. As fate would have it, I ended up in dire need of a place to sleep for the night.
A photographer I just met, went above and beyond the call of duty.
A chick and her family opened their home to me before they even knew my first name.
Now that's a revolutionary idea...

Odds and Sodds

2011-01-15T15:43:00.000-08:00

One thing I would really love to resolve this year, is my friggin' hair...

What's up Sexy!?

Dude, don't laugh! This isn't funny, this is really attached to my head! It only gets worse when I travel and my head meets city water. OUCH!
By the way- Yes...Yes I DID brush my hair today.

Please don't let my hair eclipse the other really interesting things I notice...

That's right, he said it! Got Art?

Some inspirational thoughts on talented people that came from small towns.

I haven't had a chance to listen to this yet but I'm going to trust that its good. Especially being a Howard Pyle fan...
Howard Pyle: Crux of Instruction

I was introduced to Pyle and the Wyeths during an Art Academy trip to the Brandywine River Museum. That was an awesome experience, right up there with the Rockwell Museum of Western Art. The building itself is cool. There are a couple images that still remain ingrained in my mind-

This little piggy is freakin' HUGE. Its the size of an entire wall and the detail is amazing.

Draft Age. This image left an impression that has probably subliminally affected my art career more than I will ever know.

And let me not forget this image that has been on my wall since that trip-

....
Other Stuff
Its been snowing its ass off.

"Hurry up and do the dishes so you can water me."
Yes, Michael.

I HAD to buy it. Tag Jill.

A really bad Christmas pic I forgot I had. That's my sister fresh from basic for the holiday.

tata for now

Scott Church Legacy

2011-01-11T15:12:00.000-08:00

The above is by Tony Gibble, the following were taken by MrDagger.

A photographer, Jonelle! and myself :)

Ray Sopczuk's photo of Jonelle to the far left and MrDagger's image of Courtney F rockin' body paint to the far right.

BumbleBee!!

Me and the lovely Jonelle.

HOLY HELL I'M IN A GALLERY!!!! epic face epic face epic face

A goal I gave up on years ago when I peaced out of Rowan and ultimately gave up on an art degree. Naturally, I felt blindsided when I got an email early Thursday (Jan 6th) asking if I would be in attendance. Mind you, the show opened the next day. I did receive a notice about the show back in December, I think it was, but I didn't think much of it after I saw the location. Lancaster is a good drive for me.

Mitch, MrDagger, was all like- You better be there! Your work is hanging!
I didn't miss a beat, I made arrangements to borrow my man's jeep and started looking up directions. Which worked out better for me, I didn't have time to get nervous! I hate trying to pimp myself but whenever I feel awkward, I remember a good friend's words
- When you're freelancing like that you have to become a giant whore for yourself...it sounds messed up but its totally true.-

Anytime I do a meet and greet type of event, packed with my social awkwardness, I tend to poker face it. Then, when I get in the car, I have my own little party like " Whoa! I just did that. :D" I try to keep any and all gloating, big-headedness, and haughtiness between me and the stereo. This time I had a 2 and a half hour drive to get it all out of my system!

When I get out of the car, I go right back to looking for new ways to top myself. Because that's how I roll...

Scott Church Legacy Show at Mullberry Art Studios.

Happy 2011!

2011-01-05T20:18:00.000-08:00

For surely the last thing cannot be just like the first...

That's it in a nutshell really.

THE PIRANHA STUDIOS

The 21 Day Yoga Challenge

Origins Game Fair 2011!

Pennsic Freakin 40!

Traveling Within The World - My Body Art History group is hot.

When I think about it, if I went back to school for anything it would probably be history. There's just one massive dilemma with that, there's no money in it. Now, I'd rather not let money woes drive my life but seriously... where (especially in NJ) are you going to go with history? You sure as hell aren't teaching.

I'm really getting into the DeviantART community. I've just been seeing so much talent on there lately. It doesn't help that the newest Body Art Gallery Moderator (GM) isn't doing the job I think she could. That is what compelled me to bite the bullet and apply for GM. I kept saying I would never do it (it just goes on the pile of things I said I'd never do and ended up doing...like body art) mostly because I've seen GM's come and I've seen 'em go. They burn out like Roman Candles, its just too much work for a volunteer. Either way I've thrown my hat into the ring, we'll see what comes of it.

On the flip side! Because I've been coming across so much awesome work, I've decided to bump up my monthly journal features to a DA news article and corresponding blog. I know what its like trying to get noticed. I want features to actually be worth it for the artist by reaching a wider audience. Also, when I pick features I tend to look for strong galleries or at least galleries that show some growth over time.

I guess I got started on all this because I've been secretly ninja scouting. You see, painting multiple bodies in one night is a mountain I cannot climb alone. Bigger, better paying gigs are going to be found at venues that demand more than one painted model after 4 hours of hard work. I need to find some talented artist that are willing to work for me and grow with my business. I'm sure it will take way more than one year to land steady gigs that call for multiple artists. Mad kudos if you're talented AND you love kids.

In case you hadn't noticed, I plan to take over the world with art.

I did come across a gallery in Philadelphia dedicated to Body Art. Let me see if I can find that link...

Well at least here's the Model Mayhem for Gallery ML.

Did you know that Dave Star did a graphite drawing of my eyeball?

Eye Series 01 by *Dave-Star on deviant ART

That's it thus far in January. I will be sure to keep thee followers posted on the status of my monthly goals.

One of my yearly goals is to have 25 followers of this here blog.
I WILL start including body paint images and back stories, I just thought this entry was already kind of long. Don't worry, later this month, you'll see >_>!

On the Loaf again...

2010-11-14T16:26:00.000-08:00

How I rolled at the Con.

Ah, my tour ended on a rainy Wednesday afternoon at the end of October. I beat that record setting storm out of Ohio and managed to stay ahead of it, even after stopping for a couple nights in Harrisburg. Lucky me.

When all was said and done, I had painted 15 models in 3 weeks. You read that right...15. As in, more than a baker's dozen. Only one model got painted twice, so technically it WAS a baker's dozen. I chewed through every sponge I brought and bought on the road, almost all of my Final Seal, and seriously put a hurtin' on my kit. There's like 1/4 of a cake of Wolfe Black left!

Instead of just bitch slapping you readers with a series of images, I will upload them one or two at a time with some back story...and hopefully some behind-the-scenes stuff as well.

Here are a few of the paintings I displayed at Con on the Cob.

The con turned out to be great fun. Iron Artist (an awesome adaptation of Iron Chef) was just too comical and the monstrosities we created were auctioned off for a charity. I hope someone enjoyed my travel brochure party lizard!

I had an excellent time in NY, working with some ol' favorites and meeting some new. :)

Ohio was a new experience. 271 is, by far, the worst road evveeerrrr! (maybe second to Lincoln Drive) Its the text book definition of Cluster Screw. However, the photographer, makeup artist, and models made it soo worth it! Another excellent crew! I look forward to my return.

My Harrisburg shoot was super laid back. I slept like a rock (the neighborhood was considerably quieter than Buffalo), had internet, and got to paint in pajamas. It was the perfect debriefing.

Do you remember the end of The Blues Brothers, when they get out of the car, shut the door, and it falls to pieces in front of them?? That's basically what my laptop did, about a week after being home. Awesome sauce.

On Halloween, we celebrated Thanksgiving. I know that's kind of bass akwards but my sister was leaving for basic on the 2nd. She'll be home for Christmas. Till then, I get to hang around the house and watch over her badass dogs. :D Ya know, cuz Michael's didn't call me back this year. I can't honestly say I miss working in retail though.

I've got several "sisters" but there's the original. lol!

So there's the jist of everything. No, I haven't forgotten about that elusive makeup portfolio I'm supposed to be working on. Oh, I know I mentioned in one of my videos I was considering college again. Well that's not happening either...again. My next big tour is looking to be around June 2011. I'm sure I'll make time for some short trips between now and then. Maryland IS on my list, you know.

On the road again...

2010-10-15T18:09:00.000-07:00

So I'm warning you now, I have no awesome pictures to share. I believe my phone's SD card is corrupt, all of my images and videos are "un-viewable." I could REALLY punch my phone in the face, especially when the GPS lady has no idea where I am and begins guessing directions. How disheartening is that, when your GPS sounds insecure.

Thursday the 7th, I spent all day shooting in the falls...as well as the 9th, and 10th. Then I only stopped in for brief visits on the 11th and 13th LOL!

I made it to the convention here in Akron after getting lost and turned around by construction for an hour. I'm working on the whole, making friends and getting along well with others thing. I heart meeting fans!

Off to the AleHouse tonight...as in house of ale.

By the way, the breakfast buffet at the Clarion is pretty badass.

Getting Ready

2010-09-29T02:46:00.000-07:00

I have been working non-stop on sketches for shoots and paintings! I still have a lot more to do before I am ready to leave here next Wednesday.

Tonight I should be getting images of the paintings I've been working on. They will be displayed and for sale at Con on the Cob.

I worked on a bit of a last minute shoot with Serena Star last Wednesday for a fairy set with the lovely Isa. With 20 minutes to spare, I ran right over to the church to teach my first Beginning Face Painting class. I think it went pretty well, I'm just going through the learning curve myself.

Earlier this week I went out to the Thunderbolt Raceway (NJMP) to see Matt the American Dream! lol! It wasn't the most flattering day to be taking pictures and video. It was super muggy with a slippery track.

Its Matt!

Daddy!

They made a little camp.

This Saturday Oct 2nd is Sly Horse Meet and Greet. I believe I will be car pooling with ms. Christine Van Rose. I'm trying really hard not to paint there this year but who knows. I should leave my paints at home because if I take them I will probably be talked into some artwork. Oooo twist my arm ;)

I just noticed yesterday that Bludomain never honored my request for my website to go live back in May :D Good stuff! Not only are your templates glitchy but your customer service sucks. Have a nice day!

Hit The Ground Running.

2010-08-23T15:44:00.001-07:00

Image Fred Blonder and Introducing Model Moira Dunbar Mayhem #1813055

I've been back from vacay for about a week and I've been married to the computer ever since. Unfortunately I do not have any of the promised Pennsic footage. It turns out the Flip didn't just need batteries. Apparently it needs to see a doctor too. I don't know whats going on there but in the meantime I'll see if I can do a vlog with the webcam. Obviously I didn't bring the laptop on vacation or that would've defeated the purpose! :)

Pennsic was great fun and besides partying, a little painting ;) , learning, and dressing medieval I did a lot of this-

...zzZZzz...

I was fortunate enough to take an awesome class ON teaching while I was there. Total score! I got a lot of invaluable tools to help plan, organize, and keep a class interested.

However there could be no pictures of some of our most memorable Pennsic 39 moments. Like the traveling Viking Ship, the Moose Parade, the Pajama Party, and camp debauchery!

After I got home and gave the cat his overdue attention, I tried honestly to catch up on the email as well as begin planning my October travels (which are shaping up to include Michigan). Also I have taken up the creation of the 6th List on Model Mayhem- Mentors in Body Paint. Coming before the week is up!

AND I want to get my graphic design portfolio together WHILE working on sketches and paintings for October.....::collapse::

Jenna of Tasting Grace

P.S. That music video released this past Friday...bitches!

Pre-Pennsic Thoughts

2010-07-16T21:18:00.000-07:00

I got a DD! I opened up my computer this morning for an awesome surprise! If I grow from this feature as much as I did from the first then the sky is the limit. :D

Two weeks from now I will be in attendance at Pennsic 39 with NO INTERNET so all emails will be on hold until August 14th...Totally uncool, I know. If its important, you've got the cell. I will have my paint with me while I'm there. Totally looking forward to a Turkish Double at the coffee house and at least one awesome body paint. Maybe I'll find more willing victims :D

I guess I fibbed a little when I said in my last video update that it wouldn't be months before my next video. C'mon, I have good cause! I'm out of batteries for the flip...Ok ok! I know its a lame excuse. I'll make it up to you... I WILL come back with Pennsic footage!

In other news- The Tasting Grace music video should be premiering sometime around the end of August. I am hardcore excited and chomping at the bit to share it with all of you! Here's a sneak peek-

----------

Please be warned that a winter tour is in the works!! ;-)
Expect to see me at Con on the Cob this October. I will be selling original artwork and teaching. Yes, teaching! More details to come...

Origins and other News

2010-06-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

Wow, sorry for the delay! Life has been very busy with no shortage of ups and downs. Picking up where I left off, Pittsgrove Day was not as successful as I had hoped. Great networking though! I know I mentioned the poor turn-out in my youtube update a little while back. People are just so rude these days. I DO NOT appreciate when parents snap at myself or my line manager. I'll be coming back to this subject later.

In the meantime, I was very fortunate to get picked up by Kerry Ann Smith of About Face II for several gigs. I very much enjoyed the opportunity to work during the final Flyers' games as well. My sister even had the chance to model which totally made her day.

These are the girls I did the most work on, along with a crew of 4 other painters.

Here's a random pic of the Tasty Kake stanley cup being assembled. Oh the things I've seen...

Daddy had a ball too!

Painting at the Mann Music Center for a Childrens' Hospital of Philly event.

Shortly after my last Flyers' gig I got hit with a nasty case of food poisoning that put me on my ass for a good 5 days. I missed Relay For Life and my cousin's wedding! :( Total bummer.

On June 19th I set up shop at the over-hyped Southern Shore Music Festival. A total drag and waste of money. Yet another local event where one or two assholes pop up to give us a hard time and then crawl back under the pile of shit they sprang from.
The music was excellent, I will give them that. Awesome performances from Splintered Sunlight, Trout Fishing in America, The Lee Boys, and of course Little Feat.

Mom lent me her awesome Grateful Dead Sacred Pool banner for the booth and I painted my face up like Bertha. Many many compliments :D

Right now, I am updating you from the Greater Columbus Convention Center. I'm in attendance with the bf for Origins Game Fair. Just killing time, waiting for the always-awesome art show to open up. Tonight we are getting our grub on at the Mongolian BBQ and possibly stopping by the Beer Haus before catching the shuttle back to capitol square. Tomorrow I'll be checking out ComFest which is practically across the street and then hitting up Gordon Biersch for dinner.

Booking FAQs

2010-05-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

Body Paint for Photography FAQs

Q: What kind of paint do you use? Does it wash off? Does it come out of clothing?
A: I use professional make-up grade paint.
Kryolan and Wolfe FX are some of the brands that I have been playing with.
Yes, it absolutely washes off!
No, it does not normally stain clothing. Try to bring
loose fitting clothing with you to the shoot for the drive home.

Q: Do you use Liquid Latex?
A: No, and I have no intention to.

Q: Do you use airbrush?
A: No, maybe one day but not at this time.
All brushes and sponges for now.

Q: How much room do you need for yourself and your kit?
A: My kit and myself should not take up more space
in your studio than your typical makeup artist.
I usually bring along something for the model to lie on
like a cot or massage table.

Q: Do you need access to running water?
A: Yes, but it is not a deal breaker. If your studio or location
does not have running water, please let me know in advance.

Q: Are you traveling to my area?
A: If there is a strong interest for my services then Yes.
There has to be (or at least appear to be) a decent amount
of paid work in the area for me to justify the expenses of
food, fuel, and housing...Unless, of course, you're providing it.

Q: Let's have 'em! What are your rates?
A: Half day (4-6 hours) $225. Full day $400.
The majority of the images in my portfolio were done in a half day.
I can do 2 models in that style in one full day.

Q: Is there a "Booking Fee?"
A: I now charge a booking fee when I am traveling.
A 50% deposit is required within 30 days of the shoot to hold your date.
If, for any reason, I am unable to make your appointment,
I will return your deposit in full.

Q: Can I incur additional fees?
A: Yes, if you request something I have to go above and beyond to acquire.
Like prosthetic appliances…

Q: Why do you charge?
A: Supplies, Fuel, Food, and Housing.
I can provide you with an itemized invoice upon request.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: I love Cash...PayPal is totally acceptable as well.
I will provide you with a hard copy invoice if you'd prefer.
Checks can be accepted for deposits, as long as it clears before the shoot.
If you plan to pay me with a check upon services rendered,
I would like to know in advance.
I hate, loathe, and despise Western Union, bit of a personal vendetta.
*Receipts available upon request.*

Q: Do I have to pay your rate?
A: Well, yeah if you hired me. If my rate sounds high,
show some professionalism and give me a call.
Maybe we can work something out.

Q: Are you open to TF* work?
A: I'm insanely selective. That doesn't mean "no".
Two things have to line up on this occasion. The work needs to benefit my portfolio
AND I need to have the resources to be able to make it to the shoot.
For example, if I love your work but you work out of a small studio in Alaska…
well, I’d have to re-align the cosmos or win the lottery to work that one out for us.

Q: Why did you ignore my emailzz!?!?!!?!
A: I try very hard to respond to all of the messages I get on the
multitude of networking sites I am on.
Messages slip through the cracks ALL THE TIME.
If you do not hear from me after 3 or 4 weeks, attack my inbox.
Please do not be terribly offended if I missed your email,
they easily get lost in the shuffle. When I am traveling,
multiply the chance of me losing your message by 1,000.
The “I would love to work with you, please let me know if
you want to set something up” one-liners are the easiest to lose.
I am highly unlikely to respond if your
emails or private messages look anything like these:

“can you do a jolly rancher art on my i would like to hire asap if thats ok wit u”

or

“i like your photography have you ever considered doing male photography?”

lol or maybe

“i wat you to paint my whole body krazyyyyyy and with sooo many colors”

Yay. Or something creepy as sin,

“…if a (modestly) paid shoot of a male/female couple would interest you,
I'd like to discuss for your next trip to the ***** area.
Man late 50's, woman in her 20's.”

I hope you’ve enjoyed my update FAQ!
Write me if you have a question that needs to be added!

Face Painting FAQs:

Q: Is Face Paint Safe?
A: Absolutely. You can read more about the brand I use here: kryolan.com

Q: For which ages do you recommend face painting?
A: Generally 2 and up. Infants who are not yet eating hard food usually haven't developed their immunities yet. To be on the safe side, I just say 2+.

Q: Have you ever had any allergic reactions to your paint?
A: No. From children to models I have not had a negative experience with Kryolan Aqua Color. I cannot and will not be held responsible for any negative reactions to the paint.

Q: How much space will you need?
A: For outdoor events, I bring everything I need. A 12 ft x 12 ft space will do the trick. Indoor parties, depends on the venue. In a home, a clear table or room for my own 2 ft x 4 ft table.

Q: How much do you charge?
A: For face painting, $75 per hour which equals a maximum of 12 faces per hour.

Q: How far in advance should I make my reservation?
A: At least 4 weeks is best. For summer events, up to 12 months is awesome.

Q: When are you available?
A: 7 days per week unless otherwise noted.

Q: Which areas do you service?
A: I like to keep face painting gigs within 10 miles of 08318. For distances over 10 miles, travel fees will be incurred. Body Painting is a different animal.

Q: Do you require a deposit?
A: Yes, 50% of the total is due upon booking. Cash, Check, or Credit/Debit (through paypal) is perfectly acceptable.

Q: Cancellations??
A: To receive a full refund of the deposit amount, notice of cancellation must be received MORE than 48 hours before scheduled event. Exceptions made for inclement weather. If you cancel LESS than 48 hours before your event, I will retain the deposit.

Q: Which forms of final payment do you accept?
A: Cash and Bank Certified Checks. Credit/Debit at least 48 hours before your event through paypal.

Q: Why not Money Orders?
A: I really HATE dealing with Western Union money orders.

Q: How do Gift Certificates work?
Gift Certificates can be purchased for any amount desired and applied to any face or body painting service. It's not just for birthday parties! The certificate is NOT redeemable for cash and *cannot be replaced if lost or stolen. Expires within 1 year of issue.

*I keep a record of everyone who has bought a gift cert, date and cert# so if it becomes lost or damaged, give me a call.

Workie Work!

2010-05-02T20:48:00.001-07:00

Busy Bee!
I made friends with this lil guy today. This picture makes me think of "Someday" by Rob Thomas. Yesterday Doug met a friendly painted turtle who needed help crossing the street...

Last weekend I finally shot at Primal Stare for the new music video "No Regrets" by Tasting Grace. I think it went really well and the end result will be show-stopping-awesome. LOL I wonder how many people will read this after the fact.

I'll be shooting some face art designs with 2daysphoto next weekend. I'm excited, I expect it to be a really relaxed, fun shoot.

The weekend after next is Pittsgrove Day, which I have extremely high hopes for.

That's my fur child, Michael. He owns me. Right now he's sleeping with his chin in the air, which means rain isn't far behind. I really hope so, I can't stand the heat and humidity. Over 90 degrees during the first 2 days of May???? Who would've believed it? I wonder if they'll blame it on the Volcano or the Oil Spill...

Today I noticed that every appearance of the word "potato" is spelled wrong in the Steak Outs menu. Good thing I stuck with the Pizza.

I left my headlights on for a couple hours, aint that cool? It was the shittiest day to drive my car, not only because of said weather but because only one window goes down and Dad forgot to mention that the air conditioner has been acting funny (like everything else attached to the vehicle) sooo...O BTW don't use it KTHANXBYE. As pretty as this car is, it may turn out prettier as a couple dollar signs and a bus ticket >:(

Please take a minute to stop by our Ning Network- Traveling Within the World. This site is run by Patchwork Merchant Mercenaries who represent multiple artists from around the world. The site is more than a market for various wares but also a supportive community. If you love History, Re-enactment, Metaphysics, or Art, I highly recommend coming in and reading some of our articles and contributing some of your own. :)

Back from NY

2010-04-14T23:36:00.001-07:00

How COOL is that!? I had a great trip and a fun Easter with muh Buffalo fam. All my shoots went well and I've got some awesome pics to show for it. The ride up was pretty rough, we came through some crappy weather but the rest of the week was unseasonably warm and beautiful. We even caught a rainbow! lol. We made an unscheduled trip to Corning and found ourselves at the super-mega-cool-awesome Rockwell Museum of Western Art. Put it on your bucket list, its a must see. To behold a Remington in person was off the hook...

The kids fell asleep in the back on the way home :D Sweet Romance and Katla

I took Doug to the botanical gardens where he had a field day with his new Flip. Seriously, you'll get motion sickness if you try to watch the vids.

On our last day we finally got to the falls...and so did the pouring rain and thunder! It was totally worth it.

Weather for the drive home couldn't have been better...

Check that sun coming up over the mountains! These are the little things you look forward to... :)

P.S. I love Tim Hortons for being open 24 hours and having free wifi!!!

Spot Coffee was really good too.

Drug Store Rant

2010-03-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

SALE!
Damn near everything Loreal was buy one get one 50% off and Maybelline was marked down as well. I'd post a picture of the display but blogspot is giving me an unnecessary hard time uploading pictures. THERESE, our mascara is on sale!!

SO...

I stopped at CVS on the way home from the Comic Book Store and figured I'd pick up a few things before the Buffalo Trip next week. I got this awesome Kabuki brush from the same store a few months ago. Its an excellent addition to my body painting kit but it takes a few DAYS to dry after I clean it. I figured it'd be good to have a back up. Below is a side-by-side comparison of what I bought today and what I bought months ago respectively- same brand, same package, same price.

It doesn't even fill the package!

Blogspot is being a huge douche right now and uploading my crappy images sideways but I think you can tell that the new brush is on top and the old brush is on the bottom. The hair looks different too.

So WTF, Essence of Beauty!? I did a little research and found a blurb about the origin of the brand here for those curious few. I expected to find that EoB was the generic of a bigger name but I was surprised to learn that it is a CVS exclusive.

On a completely opposite (but still Essence of Beauty related) experience. I bought the 10 piece travel eyes kit back in February. I loved the size of the brushes and the cute carrying case they came in. However, the glue that held the ferrules to the handle was dry rotted so I was re-gluing brushes together before I could even use them.

Today, I picked up another $10 travel eyes kit so that I could have smaller eye brushes in my makeup kit (the one that's not for personal use). When I opened it, I was pleasantly surprised to see that the brushes were in excellent condition and the case zipper operated smoothly by comparison.

Seriously inconsistent. W...T...F...

Reviews and other Odds'n'Ends

2010-03-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

I figure I'll wrap up March with some product talk since there some good buys and some not so good buys out there right now. Before I get into that, I have some quick updates.
1. I planned on getting some nice face paint shots for my website today but I really couldn't drum up any interest. :( So it looks like the site will be delayed until at least mid-April.
2. Either I developed a make-up allergy or my make-up is just old.
3. Fashion Bug and Oriental Trading are having some huge sales right now!
4. My car is scaring me! Gas means "Go!" not "I'll move if I feel so inclined..."
5. O joy for last minute changes on the music video shoot next weekend! WHAA! Ordering pasties as soon as my last deposit clears >_<
6. First year as a Relay For Life community team captain. whooo!
Every year I face paint at the local community day event and this year I want to be prepared! I made a list of the things I need/want done before mid-May and one of these must-haves was Director's Chairs. I've seen some listed on Silly Farm and Amazon wayyyy out of my price range and I was pretty intimidated. Luckily the lovely folks at Face Paint Forum had some awesome links posted. :) I browsed about until I found these chairs at Casual Home. All together you're looking at a $55 chair so I figure "Why not? We'll give it a try."

After $22 in shipping I was pleased to see that the chairs got here extremely fast, like 48 hours fast and they weren't banged up. The awesome, loving boyfriend who is excited to assemble new stuff put them together in no time.

The chairs seem decent for the price and fairly sturdy. I nestled my 200 lbs. bum into the canvas seat and did not hear any creaking or squeaking. I would definitely recommend keeping a big buff man around to unfold them because the metal brackets are extremely stiff and do not want to lock in place. A rubber mallet might help do the trick as well. You wouldn't have a lot of swing room between the brackets and the canvas seat though.

HOWEVER...and yes there is a "However" seeing as these ARE made in Taiwan. The pin and bolt on the cute little step that attaches to the chair frame did not line up with the holes pre-drilled into said chair frame. This does pose a bit of a problem for me since these are obviously way to high for a small child to climb into without assistance. I don't plan on returning them but I do plan on taking them for a ride to Daddy's garage for a tune-up. :)

For my next order of business...

Now, I do dearly love Silly Farm as they have the best prices for Face and Body Paint that I have found. However, around the end of February or Beginning of March I ordered a palette very similar to the one pictured except it said Kryolan instead of Snazaroo and I selected gray instead of pink. At the time, they had one listed for each brand on the site. At $25 I thought it was a little much but I felt that my kit needed to look a little more professional. I was hoping to find their generic palettes listed, like the one I got when I did the "build your own palette" since it seemed pretty cheap, it got the job done, and I really don't care whose name is on the darn thing.

When the case arrived it actually turned out to be one of the generic Silly Farm palettes like the one above with their logo printed across the front and minus the brush holders. To me, this product is worth no more than $10. It's made out of plastic and the foam lining is extremely cheap, you'll be gluing it back down in a month or so.
I was confused. I thought surely I or someone at the shop had made a boo boo. So I gave them a ring (I do love them for their awesome customer service) and talked to a gal, explaining that I thought I had paid for some sort of brand name palette. She sounded kind of surprised at my confusion and told me that all the empty cases are Silly Farm cases. This seemed kind of shady but I took the loss. After all, I did get what I was originally looking for.

If you visit Silly Farm today you won't have an easy time finding the name brand looking palettes. The only one I could find was the pink/snazaroo case pictured above and now there is a disclaimer beneath which says "*Palettes do not have logos on the inside lid.
There is a Silly Farm logo on the outside of the case"

So all-in-all this is actually a bit of a kudos for Silly Farm since they are a small business and it seems they care what you call them about lol. I'll leave it as a slightly over-priced misunderstanding.

I'll be back a little later to talk about the P2 Practice Pad, rhinestones and possibly pasties lol and any other internet treasures I've stumbled upon ;D

Hello Blogspot!

2010-03-05T18:53:00.000-08:00

Whoa! So this is my first blog and I'm just getting a feel for the site and stuff. I'm still working away at my website that I hope to have up and running VERY soon. I just have to find the time to get some awesome face paint pics. Then I should be good to go.

In the meantime, I've been practicing makeup and working hard to get all the little bits and pieces together that go into a kit. My spankin' new eyeshadow palette came in today! 120 eyeshadow colors for $33? (Shanycosmetics.com ) I was kind of worried since some customers left reviews about the shadows arriving broken. In the picture you can tell the orange got beat up a little bit but, seriously dude, its powder. Clear lip gloss and liquid eyeliner also arrived today from Avon. All I'm missing are disposable applicators and I'm good to get practicing on other people. Its going to be a little while before I start messing with false lashes though.

Make up aside, my days are filled with networking and mindless self-promotion. Freelancing has its ups and downs and sometimes it feels like there are more downs than ups. I feel like I'll be waiting tables again soon. That being said, Kandee made me feel better today lol - Why I love balloons