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Body painting is a form of body art. It is considered by many as an ancient form of art. Unlike other forms of body art, body painting is temporary, is just painted onto the human skin, and lasts for only around several hours. Painting done on the face is known as face painting.
Traditional body painting Body painting done with clay and other natural colors existed in most tribal cultures. These body paintings were worn during ceremonies and still exists in the ancient form among the people of Australia, the Pacific islands and parts of Africa. Another temperory tattoo is known as Mehndi. This uses dyes that are made of henna and are mostly used in India and the Middle East, especially on brides.
Actors and clowns around the world have painted their faces since ages. Sometimes bodies were painted for centuries and continue to do so till today. The subtle forms of face paints are known today as the cosmetics.
Modern body painting Body painting in the Western society had started around 1960s, and was prompted by the liberalization of social morals on nudity. Today there is a continues debate on the legitimization of body painting as an art form. Body painting is not always about nude bodies. Body painting also includes smaller designs on any area of the body.
Body painting in the commercial arena Many artists work as professional body painters in the world. Their work is seen very often in the popular media. Body painters also can be seen working for films especially in Science Fiction. The advertising agencies also use body painting in the ad’s on television, magazines, and other popular media.