A character's memorability is based largely on their appearance. Wardrobe is a huge part of the equation, but the thing that really defines an identity is the face. There are a lot of books, sites and online videos that provide tutorials on how to achieve a certain look, and while the details may vary, the basics of applying clown makeup remain constant.
Before beginning the process, one should always pull their hair back away from the face using a headband and perhaps a bit of styling gel. This makes sure that loose strands will not interfere with the color application and also keeps the hair more secure beneath the skullcap or wig. It is also important that one's face and neck be clean and dry so that the cosmetics can adhere properly.
The process begins by applying a coat of clown white, which comes in varied shades, over the entire face and neck area even if the character's main coloring is flesh. The biggest challenge is learning to apply just the right amount because if it goes on too thin, skin will show through, but if it is too heavy it will start to flake off. The thickness should be enough to completely cover but not so much it masks the features.
When the full working surface has a proper base, the other facial tones can be added, building from light to dark. This is how one can create highlights and shadows in the eye and cheek areas or give the illusion of contours and textures around the face. Blending the colors with one's fingers, cotton swabs, sponges or eyeshadow brushes is a great way to achieve the perfect look.
Afterwards, gently pat all covered areas with a puff or sock loaded with talcum, baby or finishing powder, just make sure it contains no cornstarch because that ingredient may yellow the cosmetics. Softly brush away the excess and follow with a misting of water and dab it carefully to dry. The purpose of this is to set the base and prevent smears and running.
Now it is time to create the character's unique features, working from the top of the face to the bottom in order to avoid smearing what has already been applied. Add the details directly on top of the white or flesh tone base using cosmetic pencils, brushes and other such utensils. Try to avoid putting color on the top lip so that there is some definition between the nose and mouth.
Once again a light covering of powder and mist should be applied to set the painted face. Outlines, accents and fine details can be added using lip and eye pencils or fine brushes. The last step in the process is gluing on accessories like the nose, eyelashes and sequins, using a specially formulated liquid latex adhesive.
Getting the perfect look requires a lot of practice and generally a great deal of trial and error. Applying clown makeup is personalized technique that is unique to each individual character. Through the use of painted facial expressions and a stylized wardrobe, a recognizable persona emerges that can entertain and enthrall their target audience.
Before beginning the process, one should always pull their hair back away from the face using a headband and perhaps a bit of styling gel. This makes sure that loose strands will not interfere with the color application and also keeps the hair more secure beneath the skullcap or wig. It is also important that one's face and neck be clean and dry so that the cosmetics can adhere properly.
The process begins by applying a coat of clown white, which comes in varied shades, over the entire face and neck area even if the character's main coloring is flesh. The biggest challenge is learning to apply just the right amount because if it goes on too thin, skin will show through, but if it is too heavy it will start to flake off. The thickness should be enough to completely cover but not so much it masks the features.
When the full working surface has a proper base, the other facial tones can be added, building from light to dark. This is how one can create highlights and shadows in the eye and cheek areas or give the illusion of contours and textures around the face. Blending the colors with one's fingers, cotton swabs, sponges or eyeshadow brushes is a great way to achieve the perfect look.
Afterwards, gently pat all covered areas with a puff or sock loaded with talcum, baby or finishing powder, just make sure it contains no cornstarch because that ingredient may yellow the cosmetics. Softly brush away the excess and follow with a misting of water and dab it carefully to dry. The purpose of this is to set the base and prevent smears and running.
Now it is time to create the character's unique features, working from the top of the face to the bottom in order to avoid smearing what has already been applied. Add the details directly on top of the white or flesh tone base using cosmetic pencils, brushes and other such utensils. Try to avoid putting color on the top lip so that there is some definition between the nose and mouth.
Once again a light covering of powder and mist should be applied to set the painted face. Outlines, accents and fine details can be added using lip and eye pencils or fine brushes. The last step in the process is gluing on accessories like the nose, eyelashes and sequins, using a specially formulated liquid latex adhesive.
Getting the perfect look requires a lot of practice and generally a great deal of trial and error. Applying clown makeup is personalized technique that is unique to each individual character. Through the use of painted facial expressions and a stylized wardrobe, a recognizable persona emerges that can entertain and enthrall their target audience.
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