The Face Is a Canvas: The Design and Technique of Theatrical Makeup

Irene Corey's designs have influenced the world of theatre with mosaic saints, mischievous Reynards, winning Tortoises. Now, from her studio, she writes the first major work on make-up to be published in the last two decades. It is a revolutionary book.

She treats the study of make-up as a creative art form. Her methods and techniques - - clearly set forth for the student working from this practical guide beneath his make-up mirror - - open new realms of inspiration for the make-up artist. From her private hoard of priceless pictures - - photographs, illustrations, paintings - - she shares more than 400, many in color.

The beginner will find the makup exercise progression unparalleled. It soothes initial fears, opens realms of delight in discovery and mastery. For the first time a make-up book employs transparent overlays to present a unique and logical illustration of the relation between make-up and the underlying skull and muscles. Corey lucidly traces the procedure of designing make-up from photographs. Another first is the unique presentation regarding make-up for complexions other than white.

A world-honored designer, Irene Corey approaches the face as if it were a canvas. She reinforces or ignores what nature has given. Her positive and direct style, her sense of humor, her remarkable assemblage of pictorial resources, her creative vision - all make this a refreshing new entrant onto the make-up textbook scene. It is a book with impressive endorsements by leading artists of the American Theatre.