International Body Art Festival

January 10, 2012 MEDIA RELEASE

Make your mark at Great Lake Taupo’s International Body Art Festival

The world‟s best body art and body painting professionals will converge on New Zealand‟s beautiful Lake Taupō on January 29 for the third annual International Body Painting Festival. The unique event, which has fast become a major international drawcard, will run over 4 days, focusing on body art with a heritage theme this year called, „Become A Legend‟. The festival offers workshops for artists of all ages and ability to learn how to transform the human form using face painting, special effects make up and extreme hair-do‟s. The result is truly breathtaking – expect to see everything from mystical creatures to monsters to a simple but beautiful butterfly parading at the Great Lake Centre.

Body artists from four countries will be attending this years‟ event, which also offers a range of family friendly activities to invigorate and excite the senses.

“This is a fun, family friendly event with art competitions and exhibitions, colourful stalls, face painting, glitter tattoos, music, and many more creative activities for everyone to enjoy,” commented Destination Great Lake Taupō‟s General Manager, Scott Pearson.

“This unique festival promotes and extends the development of new art forms, inspiring young artists to look beyond traditional techniques and push the boundaries of creativity. The volcanic heritage and diverse geothermal landscape of Great Lake Taupō are the ideal back-drop to offer just this inspiration.” Mr Pearson said.

The festival culminates with a showcase event at 7pm on Sunday 29th of January at the Great Lake Centre where the winning creation will be unveiled.

Programme of events Thursday 26th and 27th January, 2012 Mask and prop making workshop using wire, latex, papier-maché and other materials to enhance body art creations. Run by Magdalena O’Connor. Friday 27th January 2012 Body Art with renowned international guest artist Amber O’Brien. Covers art for all ages plus 3-D techniques for jewellery, lace and armour.

UV Paint Dance Party, paint will be flying in all directions at the Spa Hotel this night Friday 27th and Saturday 28th January, 2012 Sandi Cutts “Extreme Hair Up‟s” for catwalk or just that extra special night out.

Saturday 28th January 2012 Body and face painting workshop with world award winning artist Yolanda Bartram, sharing 3-D painting techniques, integration of prosthetics and designing inspirational concepts. Split Cake face painting workshop with Amber O‟Brien for beginners through to advanced.

Sunday 29th January 2012 New Zealand International Body Painting Competition – “Become a Legend” Showcase at the Great Lake Centre, Taupō.

ENDS