Photo Essay

Color, Imagination, Emotions, Fantasy and Sexuality

Body Painting is an art medium that allows one to express the freedom of their mind body and soul. It's a rare, but beautiful art form filled with color, imagination, emotions, fantasy and sexuality, the ingredients that drive the human spirit.

The art dates back to the beginning of humanity, from the early Neolithic discoveries to well-studied tribes throughout history to the glorious time of the ancient Egyptians. This art form was mainly used as a medium of communication, rituals, ceremonies in religion, birth, coming of age, marriage, wars, death and beyond. From covering the body in brilliant colors to the intricate shapes and designs, this accent art still exists in certain tribes around the globe today.

Throughout the centuries, body painting has made its way to the modern world, seen in such industries as fashion, art, photography, editorial, music, advertising and even medicine. Today it has transformed itself into a different form of expression from its earlier roots, but is as magical as ever.

All photos copyright Filippo Ioco. Visit Filippo's website.