Hello friends! I am artist Bex Novak and I've been painting for almost twenty years. I have compiled a list of commonly asked questions and answers about body painting. If you have any questions that are not on the list, please message me and I'll be happy to help answer any questions you have!

"Body painting is about self love and self acceptance, about being comfortable in the skin you are in - it's an echoing of the subconscious through the arts. "I've painted many people and everyone has something they feel insecure about. Body painting is not only a physical transformation, but it is a way of seeing yourself in a new light. The real magic isn't found in the finished painting, but in the process of the painting ... in painting people there's an openness, a sense of trust and vulnerability, often with complete strangers. A beautiful reminder that we are all connected and we are all human". - Bex

I offer body painting services in Washington, DC and the greater area. If you are interested in being body painting, congrats! - You are about to embark on a unique journey, a journey that is part of an ancient tradition that was once a practice of many cultures daily and spiritual lives. 


Q. Who is body painting for?
 
A. Fun fact: Everyone! Yes. Everyone, Absolutely! If you have a body, you can be painted! There isn't one body type that is suitable for body painting. The painting is created to fit YOUR shape - it doesn't matter how old you are, what color your skin is, what size you are or what you look like. Your body with its lines, curves, wrinkles, scars, rolls, etc., is perfect!

 
Q. How do I get painted?
 
A. If you are interested in being painted, below is some useful information about the modeling and artistic process along with some helpful tips and answers to modeling & body painting FAQ's.

 

To be painted there are two main avenues:

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1) Commissioned body painting where the model(s) pay for the process of being painted.

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2) Volunteer modeling where no money is exchanged. Volunteer modeling is often for live events and the models have no say in the artistic and creative production. However, volunteer models have a once in a lifetime experience, and a lot of fun!

Commissioned body painting is the most common avenue and begins with a simple conversation. This is done either via phone, email or messaging. During the conversation, please let me know what your vision and desired purpose is. You can send sample images of what you would like or images that inspire you. Also, please keep in mind that no two bodies are the same and your body is not the same from day to day - sometimes we change not only day by day, but minute by minute. For instance, in one moment we may feel bendier and more flexible than the next, and the next moment we may feel stiff, and so on. This is perfectly okay and totally human. Please be gentle on yourself and allow for this to be a unique experience for you - to become a higher, artistic version of yourself!

Q. How long does it take to be painted?

A. It depends. It depends on the complexity of the design, if the model is being fully or just partially painted, etc. A body painting can take anywhere from 2 to 12 hours, however on average most paintings take between 5 to 6 hours. For paint day I recommend clearing your schedule for the entire day, because along with painting is photo shoots, etc. You want to keep the paint on and enjoy the experience!

Q. What kind of paint is used, is it safe?

A. Absolutely. I use only the highest quality professional grade body paint that is safe for the skin and is non-toxic. 

Q. Do you do face painting for birthday parties/events?

A. Yes! I add magic, sparkle and joy to all types of events including face painting for birthday parties, company picnics, family reunions, and more! Please email me to book your next event! Please email me with specifics about your upcoming event (time, date, location, type of event, etc.) 

Q. How long does the paint last?

A. I typically use a water-based professional grade body paint that lasts until it is washed/showered off. If you need water-proof paint (for example if you plan to go skinny dipping) please let me know as this can be arranged.

Q. What should I bring to paint day?

A. I often provide snacks and drinks, but you may want to bring your favorite snacks and beverages, especially if you have specific dietary needs. You'll want to bring any props, shoes, etc. that will be used in the photo shoot (the specifics of this is usually discussed ahead of time). You should bring a pair of comfortable shoes like slippers or sandals, along with comfy baggy clothes to go home in (that you do not care if any paint gets on). Also, you may want to bring something to put over your car seat to protect it. If you are going out on the town afterwards, bring something to throw on to accentuate your design! 

Q. I have never been painted or modeled before, how do I pose?

A. Often poses are selected before a painting. If a pose is not selected before the painting, I highly recommend practicing different poses before the shoot. Have fun with it! Practice by taking selfies and videos of yourself, and searching models and images that you admire and inspire you! Practice and have fun!

Q. I have a boyfriend, girlfriend, friend, lover, wife or husband I'd like to bring to the shoot for moral support, is this okay?

A. Think of coming to painting day as if you were going to a hair salon to get your hair done. Would you want your partner sitting, watching you while you got your hair done? Probably not. This time is for you. Its your day. Although its understandable to want someone to come with you, I recommend against it.

Q. Should I shave or wear deodorant and/or get my nails done?

A. Yes, please! Deodorant is not only welcomed, but appreciated! As far as shaving, yes, you should shave anywhere you plan on being painted! (Otherwise the paint will look "textured" or like fuzz.) Nails you should not get done, unless they are part of the design, otherwise they are often fully painted over, along with tattoos, scars, etc. 

Q. My friend and I want to book shoots and come at the same time, is that possible?

A. Absolutely. I can accommodate multiple paintings and shoots in a day and it can be a lot of fun to be painted alongside friends. But please know, naturally, the more models the more time it will take. 

Q. Are showers provided for after the painting?

A. No. Go out into the world and enjoy being painted!

Q. Are deposits required?

A. Yes, a deposit is required for all paintings. There is no refund for cancellations when only a 48 hour or less notice is given. 

Q. I've always wanted to paint people myself, how do I get started?

A. Fantastic! Body Painting is a lot of fun, and the best way to get started, is, just to start! You can buy a paint set and some brushes and have fun! Remember body painting does not have to be the whole body, it can be painting on the arms, legs, face, etc. Just make sure to use safe paint and have fun!