Orientation Series (Day of the Dead) 3

Skulls – known as calaveras or calacas in Mexico – are an essential part of the symbolism of the Day of the Dead. They are used not only as the basis for painting faces, but also are the shape of candy such as sugar skulls and for many skeleton-inspired decorations.

La Calavera Catrina (the Elegant Skull) is an etching showing a skeleton dressed in the finery of a wealthy lady, a reminder that even the rich and beautiful carry death within them. Nowadays, la calavera catrina is a source of inspiration for women’s skull face-painting, which is both scary and beautiful at once.

In order to highlight your bone structure, you have to be aware of some certain areas. When you contour with regular makeup, you can shape the cheekbones by using black powder eye shadow. When you do your usual eye shadow, you’re following the shape of your eye socket – so fill it in with pencil or shadow. For the nose, draw an upside down triangle or upside down heart. If you’re feeling timid, don’t make any thick, bold lines until you’ve finished contouring. You can retouch the shadows until you’re happy with the shape, and use them as a guide.

Information gathered from Ms. Meirav Devash. 

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