by Monika Blichar
Our friend, volunteer and long time supporter David Torok had his face painted last year for our event by a lady named Angie Balbon. After some convincing, Angie decided that she would indeed participate after David encouraged her. We are very lucky that we have people like David in the community to support artists and make sure they are encouraged and go for their dreams.
We caught up to Angie for an interview. Be like Angie and Dave. Believe in your dreams and go for it!
1-Why are you intrigued by body painting?
Body painting is a beautiful and unique art form unlike any other. The artist has the opportunity to get very intimate with a living breathing canvas. Working with the natural curves of the body creates a breathtaking masterpiece far from two dimensional.
2-When did you know you wanted to work in the creative arts industry?
I have been enamored with the arts since I was a child. Art class was one of my favourite classes throughout my school life as a youth. When I was a young teen I discovered makeup and the beauty of it’s trans formative qualities. MANY years later I decided to combine the two loves and attend the well reputed Blanche MacDonald Centre in 2012 for Professional Makeup Artistry, a perfect fit. Since then I have dabbled in the makeup career as a Freelance Artist.
3-You attended Blanche MacDonald in 2012. What is the most interesting thing you learned in their make up program?
That the possibilities are ENDLESS, and the world is your oyster! Always maintain professionalism, a positive upbeat attitude, network and keep learning. Knowledge is power!
4-In 2013, you competed and won 2nd place at the IMATS. What inspired your character design for that competition?
The theme that year was Oz, in honor of the movie being released that year. I chose to do my own version of a Winkie Guard (Wicked Witch’s soldiers), but updated with a backstory. He is the offspring of a Winkie Guard and a Munchkin post the Wicked Witch’s demise, choosing to continue to serve for the Emerald Castle. I also have an affinity for green people, ha ha.
My model, Scott, was the perfect candidate for the role.
Below are links to the article written by Blanche for my win as well as Youtube links to the video of the competition:
https://www.blanchemacdonald.com/news/makeup/2013/top-makeup-school-imats-vancouver-2013/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqf3e0OQmPQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPh4M5BX8zs
5-Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Creating music (fronting/vocals for a touring festival music project) and making body art masterpieces Freelance while I instruct at my own yoga studio. Shoot for the stars!!!
6-Can you give us any hints regarding your body painting work for the 2017 Art World Expo Body Painting Competition?
As life and the universe connects us all and the wonders of the world, so does my beautiful expecting muse.
Art World Expo 