have used it down through the ages. So have tribesmen and ritualists.

Today, the craze has extended to people of all ages, and from all walks of life. Fairs, fund-raisers, conventions, birthday and house parties often have face painters as part of the entertainment.

Once such is artist and advertising executive Mrs. Rhona Emmerson, who is responsible for the colourful artistry on the children's faces in our photograph.

Using water-based theatre make-up from Britain, Mrs. Emmerson sees each individual's face as a living canvas, from which she draws inspiration, and which she will transform as if by magic.

Animals, insects, TV characters and fairy-tale figures are all within the range of her well-trained hand.

"Mostly, I make the designs up, but sometimes I use books for inspiration and put my own interpretation on them,'' she explained. "I try to keep up with important characters and current kids' graphics, such as the Lion King and Ninja Turtles.'' Able to paint both adults' and children's faces with equal facility, Mrs.

Emmerson says children are fun.

"Their personalities really come out in their faces,'' she explained. "I let them tell me what they want. Sometimes I give them suggestions, but usually they tell me what they want.'' Generally, little girls like prettier themes, such as fairies and princesses, while boys want "the scarier stuff''.

"I sometimes add sparkles for little girls, especially if they want to be a princess,'' the artist said.

Amazingly, Mrs. Emmerson has no trouble getting even small children to sit still while she works.

"Most children are incredible when they know they're having their faces painted. The parents are in awe!'' she said. "It's a lot of fun and kids enjoy it.'' Wisely perhaps, she doesn't show the children the transformation until her work is done.

"Then they're either absolutely stunned or in awe of how different they look,'' Mrs. Emmerson said.

But it is not only children who come under her brushes. The talented face painter has transformed many an adult. On Harbour Nights, she was found transforming cruise ship passengers for on-board theme parties. Convention organisers also use her frequently.

"Adults have their fantasies too,'' she said. "I do everything from tropical flowers to shellfish, mermaids and more. One man, who was bald, had me do an octopus all around his head.

"Grandparents are also lots of fun -- especially after a couple of rum swizzles! Face painting certainly isn't just for children.''