Artist Dani Fonseca

When Dani Fonseca prepares her canvases, she asks them to take off their clothes.

As CEO/Artistic Director of The Body of Art, Dani’s magnificent creations are more than just classic works of art.  They’re living pieces using human bodies, their surroundings, traditional paint, airbrush make-up and other inspirational media.  The result?  A multi-dimensional masterpiece perfect for a photo shoot, runway show or gallery opening alike.

BX sat down with Dani to learn more about the woman behind the pretty painted ladies.

“The Corset” – Photographed by Adrian Buckmaster

BX:  You seem to fall into a couple of different categories – both as a traditional make-up artist and a fine artist.  How does that work?

DF:  Yes, I fit in the fine art realm as well as typical makeup artistry.  As a make-up artist, I travel all over the world teaching people about the art of airbrushing and how to properly use this tool, so I’m recognized in the industry as an educator.

I’m also an installation artist – I create walls, props, work with hair stylists and costume reps and then body paint the models to fit within that environment. I want to venture more into having gallery showings with models, installation pieces/sets/videos alongside photos from other shoots.

BX: When did you first start working with body painting versus traditional face makeup artistry?

DF:  I got my BFA in Painting and Art Ed. in SUNY New Paltz.  After graduation, I started teaching, but it didn’t really fit me.  I wanted to do something more grandiose and artistic. In 2004, I found something that fit both the glamour of make-up and uniqueness of illustration and fine art into one [with body painting].  Next thing you know, I’m the lead body painter for designer Marc Jacobs’ holiday party.

Gustav Klimt’s “The Kiss” – Photographed by Burke Heffner

BX: What gives you your inspiration for a particular piece?

DF:  I’ve met all sorts of fire-eaters, aerial artists and burlesque dancers.  But I’m really very inspired by period pieces. Gustav Klimt is one of my favorite artists, and I’ve already created one project inspired by him.

When I first got started, people would ask me what I wanted to create.  I’d turn it around and ask the models what they’re about – what inspires them.  I get inspired by the fact that the people I’m working with are going to be naked, and when they’re inspired by something as well, it tends to start a dialogue and turn into something big.

“The Unfortunate Mishap of Lieutenant A.” – Photographed by River Clark

BX: What was your favorite project?

DF:  In general, my favorite pieces of work have been those that integrate installation artistry.  One of my favorites is “The Unfortunate Mishap of Lieutenant A”, a 1940’s fighter pilot shoot.  I put the whole set together, including the backdrop. I love things that are beautiful, but I love mixing a little bit of the gore with the beauty to juxtapose it (like the “cuts” on the model’s arms in contrast with the beautiful “uniform” body painting and the nurse with the bloody needle).

BX: Do you find it difficult to balance a client’s requests with your own artistic vision? Or do you find that your ideas often mesh?

DF:  I’ve definitely had clients who are particular, but I’m very flexible into working with their vision. With body painting versus just makeup, people tend to trust my vision more, because they’re hiring me as the artist, the expert. But sometimes, people who are very artistic have very specific ideas in mind, and I tap in to that and get inspired.  That’s mostly the case with make-up; 9 times out 10 when I’m doing make-up, people have a very specific vision.

BX: What do you do if a model is uncomfortable?  Do you do anything to “set the stage,” so to speak?

DF:  I have a very maternal nature, so my first and foremost concern is for the models.  Is the temperature correct?  Do they have food?  Are they in a private area?  I’m kind of like a doctor – I’m not looking at them erotically.  My mind just doesn’t even go there.  I tend to talk to them about what the process is like, and I tell them when they get the coverage of paint on, they’re not going to even feel naked.  But nudity is nudity. You’re stepping into a skin that you’re not used to.

“Dr. Moreau’s Peacock Woman” – Photographed by Jo Lance

BX: How long does it take to complete one of your creations?

DF:  Over the years, I’ve tried out a lot of techniques to make it go faster.  The first model I did by myself, and it took seven hours start-to-finish!  Then I got assistants – I have an intern program with a select group of artists teaching airbrush beauty and body painting, and in return, instead of payment, they assist me on jobs.  A fast job now would be about four hours.

BX: What paints/materials do you use?

DF:  A mix of a lot of things. I love Make Up Forever Aqua colors and Temptu Pro airbrush – it’s all I use. I also hand paint and use tangible 3D adornments like crystals, glue and trim.  Anything I can find that inspires me.

BX: Is it hard for the models to wash off?

DF:  I always give my models specific instructions in advance on what it’s going to be like to take off – a small bottle of baby oil and a loofah to scrub it down.  I never recommend models to wash it off at the shoot, because they’re going to need some help getting it all off.

“The Enlightened One” – Photographed by Keith Paul Levenson

BX: Have you ever been painted yourself?

DF:  I actually painted myself for a theme party, and it’s definitely a freeing, amazing feeling.  People are looking at you because you’re naked – but it’s not the nudity they’re focusing on – it’s the artwork. I won “best costume” even though I wasn’t wearing anything.

It’s a very freeing, therapeutic session for models too – you are a piece of art, so I think it’s a highly-recommended experience for people who may have issues with their body.

But I really love wearing clothes!

See more of Dani’s beautiful creations at www.TheBodyof Art.com.