Book review of Strutter’s Complete Guide to Clown Makeup, by Jim Roberts
There is only one must-have book on clown make up — and it is Strutter’s Complete Guide to Clown Makeup. Jim Roberts, aka. Strutter (he’s the tramp clown at the bottom-right hand of the cover photo) clearly understands the basics of clown makeup. And better yet he has the ability to impart that knowledge to the reader.
There are three main types of clown faces – whiteface, auguste and character clown (typically tramp or hobo clown), and each has its’ own challenges. Strutter treats each in their own section, talking about the particular needs and strengths of each, when it comes to designing your unique clown face.
Also, Strutter pays time dealing with your face, the shape of your face, your complexion. And how that will influence the makeup that your clown face will be covered with.
And speaking of that clown makeup, one of my favorite parts of the book is the generous depictions of various eye makeup, mouth makeup, noses, and face types. Allowing to the reader to try and find a combination that will work for his unique face. Another excellent part of the book is the plethora of color photos of other clown faces. To inspire the reader and give them ideas of what combinations may — or may not — work for their face.
Strutter’s Complete Guide to Clown Makeup is one of the best clown books on the market. It is strongly recommended for anyone interested in starting clowning.
Book Description of Strutter’s Complete Guide to Clown Makeup, courtesy of Amazon.com
It takes know-how to create a professional looking clown face. Contrary to popular belief a proper clown face is not worn as a mask. It should be designed to compliment the natural features in the face in order to enhance the clown’s expressions. In this book Jim Roberts, a.k.a. Strutter the Clown, describes the different types of clown faces and how you can design a unique face of your own. He provides detailed step-by-step directions for applying makeup to create the three basic clown face types: Whiteface, Auguste, and Tramp. Included are tips on powdering, applying rubber and putty noses, how to handle eyeglasses, handling common makeup problems, and proper makeup selection and removal. Includes full-color, close-up photos which offer step-by-step directions for applying makeup.
About the author of Strutter’s Complete Guide to Clown Makeup
Jim Roberts is a former president of the World Clown Association. He has won makeup and skit competitions at national and regional clown conventions and teaches the art of clowning for the Continuing Education Department at the University of Kentucky.