Painting a human canvas

Italian model Valeria Hasler holds still as she is painted during the "Living Art America - Bodies as a Work of Art" body painting competition in Atlanta, Ga., Sept. 28, 2013.

Forty artist from nine countries are competing in the first sanctioned World Bodypainting Association event held in the United States.

All photos taken Sept. 28, 2013 in Atlanta, Ga.

Model Michelle Corpe poses during body painting competition.

Atlanta model Metti June poses at the body painting competition.

Wyoming artist Dawn DeWitt paints on model Brittaney Isphording during the body painting competition.

Atlanta artist Lisa Smith paints on Atlanta model Darriana Reda during the body painting competition.

Texas artist Elizabeth Schieffer paints on model Lon Lawson during the body painting competition.

Brandon Sadler paints on a model during the body painting competition.

Texas artist Elizabeth Schieffer paints on model Lon Lawson during the body painting competition.

Cheryl Ann Lipstreu paints on model Brandy Valentine during the body painting competition.

Atlanta artist Brandon Sadler paints on a model during the body painting competition.

Atlanta model Metti June poses at the body painting competition.

Michigan model Heather Pietrzak looks down at Michigan artist Angela Brown (not pictured) at the body painting competition.

Canadian artist Lori Hamel (left) and Alex Hansen, right, adjust Florida model Kimberly Aikey's headpiece at the body painting competition.