The best canvas in the world turns out to be skin.

Aside from national celebrations like Independence Day and National Foundation Day, South Korea also has its fair share of intriguing festivals, sometimes involving attendees getting covered head to toe in sticky mud.

One of the most spectacular festivals is the International Body Painting Festival, where models get painted by cosmetic artists in a stunning array of brilliant colors and intricate designs. Held over two days from 25 to 26 August in the southeastern city of Daegu, this year’s competition showcased some truly jaw-dropping art for all to see.

▼ Watch these amazing artwork come alive before your eyes.

▼ The art theme revolved around the concept of love and fantasy.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUeFb81DLyj/

While admission was free for the general public, teams of artists from around the world vying for the top spot had to pay a fee depending on which categories they chose to enter. Trophies and cash prizes were awarded to winning teams, the grand prize of which amounted 10 million won (US$9,000).

▼ All of the make-up was top-notch…

▼ …and some were just surreal.

▼ Models flaunted gorgeous shades of azure blue…

▼ …greens and yellows…

▼ … and everything in between.

▼ The festival first began in 2008 and has steadily gained popularity since.

▼ A total of 150 participants representing 14 countries were here
to showcase their skills and creativity…

▼ …in dances and performances, making it a gem of an event.

Held on the last weekend of every August, Daegu’s International Body Painting Festival features some of the most talented make-up artists in the world and is even worth planning a travel itinerary around. With great food and unique events like these, South Korea is a country everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

Source: NextShark, The Korea Times
Featured image: Instagram/kkaemong___