Body painting, an ancient art form, has captivated cultures since the dawn of civilization. Across numerous tribal societies, it served both ceremonial purposes and simple aesthetic expression, utilizing natural pigments like clay. This tradition persists globally, with ‘Mehndi,’ a henna-based practice, gaining significant popularity, especially in Western cultures, offering a semi-permanent form of artistic expression.
Emerging as a distinct art form in the 1960s, body painting often sparks debate regarding social acceptance due to its association with nudity.
Crucially, body paint adheres to strict safety standards: it must be non-toxic and non-allergenic, easily removable with soap and water.
Concerning Mehndi’s henna dyes, a distinction exists between synthetic black henna and natural brown henna. While natural henna is safe, synthetic black henna can trigger allergic reactions. Prior patch testing is advisable.
With the World Body Painting Festival approaching, stay tuned for more details about this vibrant celebration of body art.