The fourth annual My Body is Art event, created by Kyra Essue aka Kahysöo, was held in Brooklyn at The Kings Beer Hall last Saturday.
The event, a live nude body art showcase, consist of artist painting on human canvases. Audiences were invited to watch the process from beginning to end , while getting painted themselves over drinks, and enjoying sounds from DJ Monumental.
MBIAs ultimate goal is to strengthen the urban community through an interactive experience “curated by artist for artists,” as Kahysöo stresses. What makes MBIA a unique event is the nude painting occurring in unconventional settings each year, with the exception of this year’s show which was held at the bar for the second time.
The diversified group of artists and models ranged from Black Ink Crew cast member Naeem Sharif to self painter Ayja Velli. Women painted men, men painted women; and the final product was a result of pure creativity and collaboration.
As for the shows future, Kahysöo explains, “We hope to be the first live urban art festival.” She then goes on to reveal, “We are currently planning a show in Toronto and hope to be going to Atlanta, Los Angeles, London, and the Caribbean in the near future.” Be sure to follow Kahysöo (@kahysooicsh) on Instagram for updates and photos from previous events, and if you’re interested in becoming a model and/or artist at the next My Body is Art showcase.