art
BODY PAINTING Re-inventing traditional art
M
oving away from the traditional concept of art; static and frame bound, body and face painting is reaching new heights, transcending the old principles and making use of an entirely new facet of creativity. Having held its third annual face & body painting festival earlier this year, Gibraltar is no stranger to the art form. The movement continues to grow, through the presence of Gibraltarian, Georgina Morello, at the World Bodypainting Festival. Georgina (or Gina as she prefers to be known) has had a major involvement in previous Gibraltar events, which were the brainchild of her cousin, Hamish Dalmedo. Last month, she modeled in the WBF, for the second consecutive year. Held on the utopian Lake Wörthersee in Pörtschach Austria, the festival gives itself the proud title of ‘the founders of the modern day body painting art movement’. Boasting an incredible ‘fusion of creative influences’ including intricate painting, a fantasia of themes, music, master classes GIBRALTAR MAGAZINE AUGUST 2015
and exhibitions. Gina’s eyes ignite as she discusses the ‘idyllic setting, transformed into a mystical, surreal environment that served as a perfect backdrop for the fusion of creating influences.’ Re-inventing traditional artistry Modeling for an Italian artist this year, her stint at the world festival came about following last year’s Gibraltar festival where she worked with internationally renowned body painting artists. A keen dancer, cheerleader and acrobat, Gina relishes in the opportunity to rouse a static piece of art, to bring it to life through an animated performance. Gina discusses one of the many categories; an art installation award brought the lake, and the body art, to life. Even the most old fashioned of art enthusiasts, who are more at ease stood in the musty, high ceilinged galleries of London or Paris, can appreciate the skill, patience and delicate intricacies involved in an art piece that often takes four or five hours to complete. With lots of nudity and open-
ness that could surely leave some feeling apprehensive, Gina insists that everyone soon becomes very comfortable, ‘it’s just blank canvases, everybody’s in a good vibe, they’re all in their element. Everybody’s enjoying the moment and embracing the festival, and wanting to share their expertise and knowledge.’ Body painting draws a unique appeal in that you can watch the artists at work and view the entire process. Over the two years Gina has modeled for different countries, ‘but next year’ she tells me, ‘we would love to take the Gibraltar team, because it’s not just about the main artists or the model, you need a team of people to help out and set up all the extras; accessories, backstage, music.’ Artists make use of assistants that can take over the painting for a couple of hours, allowing the artists to have a break every so often. Flicking through incredible photos from Gina’s trip, it becomes blatant that the artwork transcends the two-dimensional brushstrokes 51