For some time I have been concerned about the risks some so-called entertainers are taking with the health of the children they are hired to entertain.The world of face painting and face painters is full of sightings of face painters applying inappropriate substances to the delicate skins of children just to make a few dollars, or pounds. It’s under the guise of entertainment but no true professional would take such risks. Children love to be painted and fortunately the vast majority of painters act with love and due care and attention. But, all too frequently we see and hear stories of these uneducated, ill informed people applying harmful paint that can cause reactions, rashes and worse.’Safe Face’ artists want to paint smiles on children’s faces … not pain and tears!
Whilst the percentage of such potentially harmful painters may be small, it only takes one to cause damage. And if that were to turn into a legal battle and get massive media coverage, it could have dramatic consequences on both the face painting community and the enjoyment (or should that be disappointment) of children these negative repercussions would affect.
As soon as possible, this Blog will collect and collate stories, sightings, comments and opinions in readiness for the launch of a campaign to wipe out, eradicate these mal practices NOW!
I am going to set up SAFE FACES at www.Safe-Faces.com which will be a site where everyone concerned with the application of paint on the skin of children or adults can:
- read about the dangers
- see warnings about acrylics and other substances
- learn what’s commonly used by many
- how to spot an ‘unsafe’ artist
- how to spot a ‘safe face’ artist
- learn ‘best practice’ in materials, hygene, application etc
- download information for distribution
- join and be listed on the site as an approved ‘safe face’ artist
- download graphics for use as stickers and on flyers, displays and websites
Many individuals have tried to change the mal-practice of painters they have spotted, without much success. But in this way, we can all join forces and have a multi-pronged campaign that will educate the public, the media and parents as well as other decision makers in the event industry.
Then, soon, a ‘Safe Face’ painter will be the only option!
Until the next post …..
John Gordon
www.WatchThisFace.com
www.theAcademyForProfessionalEntertainers.com
Safe Face Painting 