Paint on Swimsuits

Swimsuit Body Art

A swimsuit that’s painted on your body is an art form, not for practical wear of any type. People who consider themselves to be artists, whether amateur or professional, take pains to create these extraordinary images. Some of the painted on swimsuits are so realistic, you'll only realize on closer inspection that there’s actually no fabric there, only skin.

Total Creativity

Creating paint on swimsuits allows the artist and model, or canvas, to be completely creative. The artist begins with a clean slate and can make whatever he likes. If you choose to be a model, you can come up with the most outrageous swimwear imaginable and with a little work, you can wear a swimsuit that no one else will have, at least for a few hours or until the paint wears away.

You as the Canvas

If you love the look of body painting and would like to participate, you’ll need to find a professional body artist. The art of painting bodies is a creative subculture composed of amateur and pro participants who are serious about their craft. Whether you locate an artist through word-of-mouth, parties or festivals, ask if she has a portfolio to view so that you can get an idea of her work and if it’s compatible with what you want.

Comfortable in Your Skin

If you are the canvas and are having a bikini painted onto your body, you’ll have to be comfortable enough to be nude in front of your artist. To fully replicate a swimsuit, the painter will be intimately involved wih your private parts, so this isn’t an activity for the bashful! Also, be aware that you'll need to be practically hairless for the best results.

Body Paint Press

Two well-known publications have featured models in swimsuits that were no more than art on their bodies. The 2005 Playmates at Play at the Playboy Mansion calendar showcases two Playmates in painted on bikinis, while some recent Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issues have featured models in painted on bathing suits as well.

Examples of Paint On Swimsuits

These are just a few images of painted on bathing suits created by some talented, imaginative artists. Look closely because it really is paint!

• Beach Babe
• Ana Paula Araujo in 2007 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition
• Tori Praver in 2007 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit edition
• Piano Keys
• Pretty green two-piece
• Black and pink one piece
• Striped one piece
• Blue and black wetsuit

When done by a professional body painter like Mark Greenawalt or Rich Diltz, these swimsuits look incredibly realistic and not like they’re painted on at all.

Swimming is a no-no in a painted on swimsuit!

Of course, you aren’t going to be fortunate enough to see paint on swimsuits at the beach. Anyone who has taken the time to create this art or has sat for hours while someone painted them isn’t likely to go near water anytime soon. This is a form of artistic expression for body painting enthusiasts. They may display their work at festivals, carnivals, galleries or online. Once you discover this creative subculture, you’ll be amazed at what these artists can do.

Not Exactly Do-It-Yourself

If you want to try painting a swimsuit on yourself (you’ll definitely need help in some areas) or on someone else, Your Swimsuit Guide contain useful tips and practical advice for anyone starting out. You’ll really need an eye for artistry before you attempt to pick up brushes and paints. That’s why the majority of painted on bathing suits you’ll find are done by professionals. As with any artistic medium, people who are serious about this craft are capable of creating true works of art using little more than paint, brushes and skin.