This archive report was first published on 2 August 2019.
Body Art Revolution in Kenya ¶
On August 2, 2019, a new era in body art emerged in Kenya, as artists began to experiment with elaborate makeup designs that went beyond the traditional norms.
Valary Mdeizi, a talented makeup artist, is at the forefront of this revolution. Her ultra-vibrant and dramatic avant-garde makeup style is a fusion of art, creativity, and self-expression.
According to Valary, 'my canvas is the human skin.' She uses a variety of tools, including paintbrushes, sprayers, and lipsticks, to create intricate designs that are both visually stunning and thought-provoking.
Anna Montez, another talented artist, shares Valary's passion for body art. 'For me, the normal makeup had become very basic,' she says. 'I wanted to dare and test how far I could go with being extra on makeup creations.'
Body art is not just about applying colors to the skin; it's also an expression of character, story, or era. There are no rules in body art, and artists can experiment with different tools and techniques to create unique and breathtaking designs.
From natural to avant-garde, the options are endless. Some customers prefer nude makeup, while others opt for bold and dramatic designs. The price of face or body art depends on the design, with Valary charging as low as Sh20,000 per person.
Both Valary and Anna are self-taught artists who have honed their skills through practice and experimentation. Valary studied economics and statistics in her undergraduate studies, while Anna attended beauty school to study pedicure and manicure.
Their art is inspired by their surroundings, with Anna finding inspiration in the night. 'I get this desire to create,' she says. 'My inspiration mostly comes at night.'
