face painting. It is a popular art form held at school fairs, special event parties for businesses, and private parties.

They will be featured at the grand opening of the new waterfront Bermuda Pharmacy on Pitts Bay Road.

It all began about six years ago when Ms. Swainson was in charge of entertaining kiddies for an evening at the Mt. Saint Agnes Academy with the assistance of Ms. Thornhill Ms. Swainson said: "It was all new to us then, but we derived such pleasure from painting those beautiful little faces. It was ever so gratifying to hear their laughter and to observe their looks of approval and awe.'' Ms. Swainson practices as a dental hygienist in her real job and Ms. Thornhill is a physiotherapist.

Ms. Thornhill said: "Face painting is therapeutic. I focus on making my subject happy and beautiful.'' Both artists studied art in high school and really enjoy painting faces.

"The more you work the more proficient you become at face painting. You get to know what suits a face,'' reflected Ms. Swainson.

They use special water based Krylon paints from England which are very gentle.

They are hypo-allergenic and are removed quite easily with soap and water.

This friendly duo have painted as many as 30 faces at a time at big functions and they estimate they paint over 1000 faces a year.

The most popular motifs are animals, flowers, fish, spice girls, batman and princesses. Adults like having their faces done also.

Some of their favourite venues include the Pirate Party offered by Bermuda Island Cruises, PALS and Sonesta Beach Hotel.

Ms. Swainson is generous with her talents and has taught several student painters who help her out at various school functions.

Both artists are outgoing, friendly and enjoy people. They may be reached by calling "Fun Faces Facepainting''. Pam Swainson's contact number is 238-1144 and Sandra Thornhill's contact number is 236-8981.

Pam Swainson, left and Sandra Thornhill right, will paint faces at the Bermuda Pharmacy on Saturday. Megan Lopes is the model.

BUSINESS BUC