Practical Lesson: Scarification.

Creating Scarification

In our lecture today we watched a video that showed procedures of scarification amongst many tribes, mainly in Africa. The reasons differed depending on the tribe. One of the tribes that we watched the reason for scarification on the face is to represent childhood. So this would be done at a very young age. On the abdomen it represents manhood. Men can choose when they want to go through this long tiring procedure as they only hold it once every 4 years. The age is usually ranged from boys at the age of 16 to grown men of 30. 

After a weeks intense ceremony this is one of the last events that happen. They cut into the skin in a design that they wish and make wounds. They have to be careful when the scars are healing so they get the effect they wish for.

This is the video we were shown for those of you who have the stomach to watch it.

We created the effect of scarification in our practical lesson this week using Liquid Latex and food products such as rice, lentils, popcorn etc. 

For my example I used flat peas:

Step One

After completing a skin test to make sure the model isn’t allergic to latex, gown the model and make sure clothing is protected.

Step Two

With your choice of product, depending on your desired outcome, pour the amount you require into a bowl. For this example I used flat beans.

Step Three

Pour liquid latex into the bowl with the beans and stir. You can add more as you require but the latex should cover the product.

Step Four

You need to work quickly so the latex doesn’t dry. Start placing each bean on the skin with tweezers for a more precise finish.

You can also use your fingers and grab the product if you want to create an effect that isn’t as precise.

Step Five

Once you have placed the product on the skin and are satisfied, you can either wait for it to dry naturally or use a low heat hairdryer.

Optional

Once the latex has dried you can add colour over the top to create a more natural look. You might choose a face base colour or a brighter more vibrant colour for a contemporary approach.

I thought I'd upload this picture from after I pealed the peas off. I think this effect could look nice if it was done more precise and I'm considering this in one of my designs.