Friday, January 24, 2014

Tips For Applying Clown Makeup

By Judy Sullivan


Each and every entertainment character begins with a signature look. The choice of clothing is a huge part of the process but the part that is most identifiable is usually the face. There are plenty of books, websites and tutorial videos online that give instruction on creating a certain style, but the basics of clown makeup application are the same throughout the different techniques.

Always start by pulling the hair away from the face and securing it with some styling gel and a headband. This step not only keeps any loose strands from getting in the way and helps to keep it tucked up beneath the wig or skullcap when that piece is applied. Once that is done, thoroughly cleanse and dry the entire face and neck so that the cosmetics will properly adhere to the skin.

The process begins by applying a coat of clown white, which comes in varied shades, over the entire face and neck area even if the character's main coloring is flesh. The biggest challenge is learning to apply just the right amount because if it goes on too thin, skin will show through, but if it is too heavy it will start to flake off. The thickness should be enough to completely cover but not so much it masks the features.

When the full working surface has a proper base, the other facial tones can be added, building from light to dark. This is how one can create highlights and shadows in the eye and cheek areas or give the illusion of contours and textures around the face. Blending the colors with one's fingers, cotton swabs, sponges or eyeshadow brushes is a great way to achieve the perfect look.

Once this is done, dust a finishing product such as talc or baby powder over the whole area using a puff pad or sock, but be sure to avoid anything containing cornstarch because it may cause yellowing in the cosmetics. Remove all the loose excess and mist the work surface with water, softly dabbing it dry afterwards. This sets the paint and minimizes smearing or color runs.

Working from the top of the head down to the neck to avoid smearing, begin creating the character's signature look. Apply the new colors directly over the base coat using sponges, swabs, fingers, pencils or whatever utensils are most comfortable to the individual. One trick of the trade is to leave the upper lip area the base color so that the space between the nose and painted mouth is clearly defined.

Once more follow the dusting and misting process to set this new layer of color. Fine brushes and lip or eye pencils are great for adding details, accents and outlines to the newly created features. Finally, using a special adhesive made of liquid latex, apply any facial accessories such as eyelashes, sequins and the nose.

A lot of trial and error, as well as hours of practice, go into the process of finding the perfect look. The application of clown makeup is personalized with each different character. The persona is created through the use of a specialized wardrobe and facial expression.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment