Unlocking The Mystery: Blurryface Paint Explained - And How To!
Does a simple application of black paint possess the power to encapsulate the complexities of inner turmoil and artistic expression? For Tyler Joseph, the frontman of Twenty One Pilots, the answer is a resounding yes, as the black paint of "Blurryface" has become a potent symbol of his artistic journey and a visual manifestation of his deepest insecurities.
The enigmatic character of Blurryface, born from the depths of Joseph's creative psyche, first materialized in the eponymous album released on May 17, 2015, and rapidly evolved into a central narrative thread within Twenty One Pilots' artistic universe. But what exactly is this enigmatic figure, and what significance does the stark black paint hold in the context of this captivating artistic vision?
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tyler Robert Joseph |
| Born | December 1, 1988 (age 35), Columbus, Ohio, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Musician, Singer, Songwriter, Rapper, Multi-instrumentalist |
| Known For | Frontman of Twenty One Pilots |
| Genres | Alternative Hip Hop, Piano Rock, Electronic Rock, Indie Pop, Reggae |
| Instruments | Vocals, Piano, Ukulele, Bass Guitar, Drums, Keyboards |
| Associated Acts | Twenty One Pilots |
| Spouse | Jenna Black Joseph (m. 2015) |
| Children | Rosie Robert Joseph, and a daughter |
| Website | Twenty One Pilots Official Website |
During the Takeover Tour, when they played "Message Man," Joseph brought out a bowl of black paint, and this seemingly simple act served as a powerful visual metaphor for Blurryface's ascendance. He would dip his hands into the paint, transforming himself in the process. The application of the black paint is not arbitrary. It's a carefully considered element of the Blurryface persona. As the narrative goes, Joseph uses the paint on his neck to represent his voice, and on his hands, to symbolize his writing, the creative output that defines him as an artist. This choice offers a visual articulation of the battles that Joseph faces, making the emotional landscape of his work tangible.
The question of how to achieve the Blurryface look is one that fans frequently ask. Thankfully, the answer is straightforward: any kind of long-lasting body paint will suffice. Brands like Mehron are often recommended, though it's important to avoid acrylic paints, which can become itchy and chip off. Many fans have also found success using a generous amount of eyeshadow, which can blend nicely and doesn't appear too dark.
The significance of this black paint extends beyond mere aesthetics. In Joseph's own words, the black paint is more than just a visual choice. It is a representation of the internal struggles that he confronts and the insecurities that often grip him. Every night, Joseph transforms into Blurryface, smearing makeup over his neck and hands, becoming the physical embodiment of the character, in an almost ritualistic manner. The paint represents the tangible effects of emotional battles that he faces, particularly as he performs songs that delve into these personal struggles.
The continuous application of black paint has become a ritual for Joseph, allowing him to manifest the character of Blurryface every night on stage. During the Blurryface era, the black paint and the color red played a prominent role in their visual storytelling. The album itself, and the imagery associated with it, is predominantly black and white, but punctuated by red, the color of passion, violence, and anger. This creates a powerful dichotomy that adds layers to the storytelling.
This imagery is remarkably consistent across the band's music videos, reinforcing the connection between Joseph and the character. For instance, in the music video for "Heavydirtysoul," which takes place within the DEMA storyline, Joseph still wears the black paint, even when assuming the persona of Clancy. This shows how the emotional themes of Blurryface extend even to the other narratives in their musical universe.
This commitment to the Blurryface character isn't just skin deep. The album Blurryface itself signifies a turning point. On March 1, the RIAA announced that the album was the first in the digital era to have every single from the album achieve gold record status, an unparalleled feat. The album, which was released on May 17, 2015, marked a significant shift in their artistic direction. Blurryface reminds us to be slow to despair. By the grace of God there will be a better tomorrow, an anthem for those struggling with their inner demons, creating a sense of solidarity among the band's fans. The black paint itself is a reminder of the universal struggle with our own insecurities, the constant battle against negative thoughts.
The musical style of Twenty One Pilots, as expressed through the Blurryface album, is difficult to categorize. They blend hip hop, piano rock, electronic synth, reggae, and alternative rock, often incorporating a ukulele, as well. Despite the unconventional combination of influences, the music works, and the bands sound is distinctively their own.
The meaning of the Twenty One Pilots symbol, which is often associated with the Blurryface era, is open to interpretation, allowing fans to find their own meaning in the artwork. The band's logo is not just a visual representation; it is also an invitation to engage with their art on a deeper level. The logo embodies the idea that anyone, anywhere can create art. Joseph and drummer Josh Dun, are both known for this, as the black paint is a tangible reflection of the emotional and artistic journey explored in their music.
While creating the Blurryface look, those wanting to mimic the look should opt for a long-lasting body paint. Although there are no specific guidelines, face paints are readily available in seasonal Halloween stores and craft stores. It is advisable to steer clear of acrylic paints, as they can cause discomfort and flake off. Eyeshadow can be a convenient alternative for achieving the Blurryface effect, as it blends well and provides a softer appearance.
The impact of the Blurryface album can be felt to this day. Since the bands recent tours, Joseph has returned to using the black paint on his hands and neck, providing a link to that era. The black paint's use helps the artistic vision to be consistent across all their music videos and live performances. This is a physical expression of the emotional complexities that Joseph addresses in his music.
The use of black paint in Twenty One Pilots' performances is a profound artistic choice, a visual metaphor for the grip of insecurities and the battles fought within the human psyche. The fact that this detail is consistent across their music videos makes it a core part of their unique identity. The band uses this symbolic medium to communicate and connect with their fans about their internal struggles. The band's style is not easy to define. Yet they have managed to create music that transcends the boundaries of conventional genres.
It is interesting to note that the red eyes are often depicted in reference to Blurryface, which, adds another layer of symbolism, portraying the character's malevolent and haunting presence. Blurryface does not represent just any character. It represents the embodiment of internal insecurities and struggles, and the fact that the band uses this in their musical performances makes it even more intimate.
Joseph acknowledges the work that goes into becoming Blurryface every night. The fact that the band consistently features it, not only on their albums but also during their tours, is a testament to the significance of Blurryface. The black paint used to represent Blurryface serves as a visual cue in music videos and live performances. It symbolizes the visible manifestation of Tylers insecurities and the constant battle against negative thoughts.
