Bodypainting is an extraordinary art form. Using the human body as the canvas for painting allows for some unique possibilities that can really WOW people. In New York City, it is legal for a bodypainter to use nude models because of a law allowing nudity when it is done for artistic purposes. Within the past decade, bodypainting has surged in popularity in NYC, with there even being an official Bodypainting Day.
While the models that bodypainters work with may appear comfortable in their skin, it doesn't mean they didn't feel vulnerable at first. Recently, bodypaint model Dara Swisher spoke about how she deals with feeling vulnerable when being a bodypaint model, especially in such a public place like in the middle of Manhattan.
Dara thinks that one of the most transformative aspects of bodypainting is its ability to change how the models being painted see themselves. They may sometimes look at themselves in the mirror and have negative self-talk about how they look. Yet, when they get painted, they transform into someone else...they become art. Their vulnerabilities melt away thanks to them turning into a canvas, a sculpture. Being camouflaged with body paint, even if you are standing on a busy sidewalk, can be all it takes to shed vulnerability. You shift how you think your body should be. You see it from the perspective that it is a vehicle for art. You can use it to express things in an extraordinary way.
Being vulnerable transforms into feeling empowered. You can be practically naked in the middle of a big city and feel like you belong in the spot you are standing. Rather than hoping people look away and stop giving you attention, you welcome it and invite the gaze of others upon the art you are displaying with your body. Being bodypainted allows you to take control of the narrative and invite people to look at you.
Bodypainting is an incredibly liberating, empowering, and enriching experience. With it only becoming more popular, it's something you should consider being a part of, like Dara has, especially if you want to unlock your personal confidence and power.