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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWINSTAGRAM.COM/JENSEIDELARTISTTIKTOK.COM/JENSEIDELFACEBOOK.COM/JEN.SEIDEL2Q: Can you describe your creative process when starting a new body painting project? A: When starting a new body painting project, I first consider the people I%u2019m working with. If I%u2019m collaborating with a photographer or another artist, we decide together on the overall goal. From there, I can figure out how to implement the design we%u2019ve chosen. If I have complete freedom in deciding on the look or design, I usually open Pinterest or Google to collect images of real clothing or patterns. Sometimes I sketch the design on my iPad to get a good idea of how it will look on the model, creating my own guide to work from. If a client knows exactly what they want, I use a similar image as a guide. Rarely do I paint the entire design from my own thoughts; I need to see some details first to make it as realistic as possible.Q: How do you come up with the concepts for your body paintings?A: My go-to sources are usually Pinterest or Google, where I search for specific fashion looks. Sometimes I%u2019ll match material that is already part of the props. If a client wants something specific, they%u2019ll send me photos to work from. Occasionally, the photographer or company I%u2019m working with already has an exact theme or design in mind. Either way, I need a guide to keep the work detailed. If the painting needs to blend into a scenery, I%u2019ll proceed accordingly to make the process as easy as possible. Good teamwork is usually needed, especially for models or photographers to understand my technique.Q: What has been your most challenging body painting project to date and whyA: The most challenging body painting projects have involved detailed logos and small writing. I recall one event where I had to paint a four-hour cigar band logo live, and at one point, I didn%u2019t think I could finish it. I got emotional and had to take breaks to complete it properly. I realized I was putting too much pressure on myself to make it perfect. Once I accepted that I was a human painting on a living body, I finished it with ease. People praised my work, saying how great the model looked. Such projects require a tremendous amount of patience.Q: Can you share a memorable reaction from someone who saw your body art for the first time? A: One of my favorite things is watching people see my body painting for the first time at events. I often sit in the back of the room at the beginning and watch as people realize the models are only in paint. Initially, they%u2019re unsure, but once it%u2019s confirmed, they want to take photos with the models and ask questions about my process. I appreciate the positive reactions, which are still the same today for people seeing my work for the first time.Q: How do you ensure your models feel comfortable and confident during the painting?A: The comfort of my body paint models is extremely important to me. I assure them they%u2019re in good hands, and if they%u2019re nervous, I calm them with kindness and positive words. We take breaks to stretch, eat, drink water, or take photos to show them how it looks. It%u2019s crucial for them to feel comfortable because any negative energy can affect the quality of my paintings. I also explain the importance of breathing and practice it with them to break the ice and ensure they%u2019re at ease.Q: What role do you think body painting plays in the broader context of contemporary art? A: I think body painting is still seen as taboo in some areas. However, the way I paint my models, you can%u2019t tell they%u2019re painted. I push boundaries and strive to be innovative, shocking people and getting reactions. My work falls in line with contemporary art, and I aim to gain credibility and trust from people and companies seeking something different. My art blends marketing and contemporary art, benefiting those who choose to work with me.110 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 52