RAW MAKEUP OF THE YEAR: Alan Anderson

My name is Alan Anderson. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, I moved to Denver in 2004. As a career Firefighter/Paramedic, I enjoy body painting as a side job. My interest in make-up started years ago around Halloween. In fact, it was not until January 2010, that I painted my first model. I was always known as an athlete growing up and I’ve actually never taken an art class in my entire life.
After October 2008, I decided that I wanted to paint my face for something other than Halloween. I met a master body artist by the name of Pashur at a face and body painting convention. I mentioned to him that I was not an artist, but that I started having friends ask me to paint their faces for costume contests. I wondered how I could paint throughout the year, to “practice” my Halloween characters. My idea was to paint kids’ faces at public events like fairs, or birthday parties. I don’t think I will ever forget the professional advice that he gave me that day. Pashur looked at me…paused…and with a very caring voice, asked me 3 simple questions that would change my future. He said “Alan, do you have kids?”…I said “No”. He said “Do you like kids?”…I thought…”Well, no. Actually, I don’t”. He finally asked, “Then why would you paint snotty nosed little kids, when you can paint beautiful bodies?” From that moment on, it was clear to me that I wanted to learn this skill.
I am self-taught, and I don't feel that I was born with any special “talent.” I simply enjoy making people smile. The reaction I get when people see my art walk, talk, and move about is the reason I continue to do this. Please visit my website at www.ColoradoSkinWorks.com




























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