Tips for models

Modelling for a bodypainting is an amazing experience that can build confidence and open up areas of a person's character they haven't explored before.

Any person can try it so use the opportunity to enjoy and explore.

• Getting ready.

Remove body hair where necessary. Moisturise the evening before but not in the morning unless the artist specifies.
Bring - G-string, white without lace or decoration.
A black G-string is better for a UV painting.
Hair brush, soap and baby oil for hard to remove paint, shampoo and scrubber. Camera.
Towel and clothes that can get dirty. Paper towels. Healthy snacks. CDs if needed for a performance.

• Stretches.

Stretch well before painting time to start off with a warmed up body.
This helps to avoid cramps and to stay focused. It is easier to pose after the painting is finished.

• Through the day.

Try to keep the body as relaxed as possible. Drink water in small mouthfuls spaced over time.
Drinking a whole bottle of water at once makes going to the toilet more constant.
Keep muscles warm by tensing and relaxing them. Do mini stretches that don't disturb the artist.
Eat food that will give energy but not be too heavy or messy.
Fruit, muesli, light grainy bread can make good energy snacks.
Sugar gives a fast boost but no lasting energy so don't rely on it all day.
Energy drinks or energy lozenges are good just before going on stage or into the photography area but don't use them all day as they can also bring on a drop in energy.

Be aware of artist needs.
Where are they painting?
Is it a small detail?
Can you move to help?
Do you already know your artist?
If not speak with them about their idea so that you can prepare yourself for your performance and posing.
Do they have music for you to dance to? Listen to it when possible.

• Performance.

A performance should have a beginning, middle and end.
Move in an appropriate way to reflect the body art.
Be dramatic. Make eye contact with the audience, photographers and video crew, and interact.
Enjoy it! Make every performance something to remember.

• Photography .

Photographing the art work is very important as it is the only way to preserve body art.
Do a variety of poses that complement the artwork.
Don't move too quickly as the photographers need time to frame their pictures. Listen to the camera flashes!
If the photographers are clicking furiously then it is a good pose.
Keep it a little longer and try to make eye contact with all photographers as.
Do small variations on that pose.
When the flashes go quiet then try something new. Make eye contact! Change facial expressions! Try poses that use a variety of levels and make it interesting. Use the ground, and the air, jump, fly, be alive.

• Finishing

Showering. When paint is difficult to remove, try baby oil. If the artist has used glues to attach things then they may have a specific solution to remove the glue.

Stretch again before sleeping to avoid waking up with a cramp.