Quote:
Originally Posted by Fitzwilly
Second. If you like blue, then continue using some blue in your designs.
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I'm going to have to agree with that assessment.
Now, given, I think that you have just way too much blue around the mouth in that one attempt. But, generally speaking, I don't see why blue can't fit in. Indeed, on my regular auguste face, I have chosen to use blue outlines for my muzzle and eyes. Why? For one, I just like it. It also jives well with the costuming I use, it seems (which incorporates blue tones.) But, mostly, it softens my look. I have jet black natural hair which I don't cover up with a wig. Employing black on my face just makes everything stark, it seems. For up close work, in particular (which is when I tend use this face - more for birthday parties than anything) I want to present an appearance which is inviting and even "cute." With black, it has entirely the opposite effect. The average observer seems to agree with this, in my practical experience. The only time I have ever really been criticized for using blue are by other clowns who consider it a sort of "rule" that it shouldn't be done.
Now, that said, does blue sometimes look awkward on a clown? Yes, I do think so. It doesn't fit into every face neatly. It has to be the right thing for the right person.
Further, it has been commented to me that black projects better. I was once asked to try something similar to the experience Fitz suggests by painting over one side of my face in black outlines and the other in blue. Someone then held a mirror at increasing distances so that I might see the difference in how things read to an audience. It was insight appreciated and well taken. If I were doing a gig which required me to communicate expression 50 feet away, I might use black because of it. But I still use blue for the most part, as it is what fits for me in the clowning I do.