The World Bodypainting Festival

Some say body painting is one the oldest art forms known to man – ancient people have been tattooing, piercing and painting their bodies for thousands of years. In the last decade or so, a new festival has been making waves, praising this ancient art form.

The biggest festival for the body painting community connects cultures from two continents – the festival is held every year both in Seeboden, the Carinthia province in Austria and in Daegu in South Korea. The main festival, a true “Mecca of Bodypainting”, started in Austria but grew so big it needed a bonus exhibition, set on the Asian continent. With thousands of artists and models and ten times more visitors, the festival has been spreading excitement for the art of body painting for over 12 years.

The artists have both women and men as their canvases. These usually volunteer for a chance to have their body painted by a famous artist. All models are required to wear underpants while painted, however many of the female models choose to be painted topless. The body painting masters compete for the big prizes: trophies, prizes and the public’s respect for their work.

The festival that lasts a week consists of two steps; in the first four days, everyone attends special workshops and body painting lessons and the festival itself, when every artist displays its works. Artists can compete in three different categories: special effects, airbrush, or brush and sponge, and their creations are displayed often accompanied by live music.

The festival in Austria is held every year during 13 - 19 July, while the Asian version occurs during 25 - 31 August, starting with 2008.

Friendship Djerrip Art Body Painting Exhibition

Most of society has begun to accept tattooing and generally don’t make a big deal about them. I myself, think they add a certain flair to your personality. They are a way of expressing who you are and how you feel about yourself. Remember, they are a permanent part of your body afterwards. They can be very enticing or they can be ridiculous. Some people have made it their objective to completely cover their entire body with tattoos. I don’t really care for this type of practice but, if that is what you want to do this, then go for it.

When and if you decide to get a tattoo, by doing the research first you will be able to make a well informed decision as to where and how you want to display your new form of self expression. Whether they are in the form of flowers, butterflies, animals, and even people, they can add to your self worth. Many of us would like to express ourselves everyday but, we just don’t how. You can through the form of a tattoo.

If you decide to go ahead and purchase a tattoo, please remember that they are expensive to install and remove depending on the size and location. Although they can be removed, there is the possibility of some tissue damage and discoloration.

I am no expert on tattoos and if I was going get one I definitely would research the subject first.