I recently discovered the art of Ariana Page Russell and was mesmerized by her personal vision and use of temporary body modification in her art.
Inevitable and Index
Patterns' Faction and rrrrr
She incorporates traditional decorative elements that are typically associated with women. Toile, herringbone and eyelet lace inspire many of the patterns she draws on her skin.
In her own words:
I have dermatographia, a condition in which one’s immune system releases excessive amounts of histamine, causing capillaries to dilate and welts to appear (lasting about thirty minutes) when the hypersensitive skin’s surface is lightly scratched. This allows me to painlessly draw on my skin with just enough time to photograph the results. Even though I can direct this ephemeral response by drawing on it, the reaction is involuntary, much like the uncontrollable nature of a blush.
Soothe and Beam
Rant and Radiate
She takes photographs of her skin and makes temporary tattoos in shades of pinks and reds. The tattoos are cut into shapes and reapplied to her skin, panels, windows and walls. Often tattoos that have been on her body are then used for her installation work.
Soiree
Terrain
Soupçon
Using her skin as her canvas and also as her brush, Ariana pushes the boundaries of self portraiture and using the female body as an object in art. Her images are not overtly sexy or titillating, but are beautiful, sensual and intriguing.