carateum

Carateum is a traditional form of body painting practiced by certain Indigenous communities in the Americas. It involves applying natural pigments to the skin to create decorative patterns and symbols. The designs are often culturally meaningful, representing lineage, cosmology, or rites of passage, and are usually performed during ceremonies, festivals, or personal milestones. Carateum is typically a temporary art form; the paint wears off over days or weeks with washing and perspiration, though some communities may apply stains that persist longer in arid climates.

The materials and techniques vary by community but commonly include pigments derived from charcoal, ochre, clay, and plant dyes, mixed with binders such as animal fats, oils, or resins to help adherence. Tools range from brushes made of plant fibers to sharpened sticks or even fingers for freehand drawing, sometimes supported by stencils for repetitive motifs. Preparation often involves cleaning the skin and sometimes conditioning it to improve adhesion.

Carateum is embedded in social and ceremonial life. Designs may indicate clan affiliation, spiritual beliefs, or important events. The practice is often transmitted orally and through apprenticeship, with elder artists guiding younger learners. In recent decades, carateum has attracted ethnographic study and interest from photographers and cultural heritage programs. Contemporary discussions emphasize consent, respect for source communities, and the protection of cultural property as these traditions navigate tourism, commercialization, and efforts to keep techniques alive.