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Artist: Ariana Page Russell

August 9, 2012 by Erin Fletcher

Ariana Page Russell uses her body’s hypersensitive skin in her photo series appropriately titled ‘Skin‘.  Ariana possesses a condition known as dermatographia, where her immune system releases excessive amounts of histamine causing her skin to welt up for around thirty minutes from the lightest of scratches.  This conditions allows Ariana to use her body in a way many of us cannot, therefore creating some of the most unique images. 

Ariana also photographs her flushing skin, using the images to create wallpaper installations and temporary tattoos.  In her photo series ‘Save Face‘ she applies the tattoos on various areas of the body to explore the concept of augmenting one’s identity. 


  1. Katie says:

    Wowee, what an amazingly weird and wonderful way to make art! The photographs are so interesting, and the technique is so original! thanks for introducing me to this artist. Just discovered your blog through The Burlap Bag – absolutely love it, am going to have a look around :) Keep up the great work! Katie. xxx

  2. vicki says:

    very bizarre!

  3. I was thrilled to find someone posting about dermographism! I too have this and am thrilled to see someone explain what it is. I was diagnosed as a child and have learned when it is the worst/best. Thanks for sharing and introducing me to this artist.

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  • My name is Erin Fletcher, owner and bookbinder of Herringbone Bindery in Boston. Flash of the Hand is a space where I share my process and inspirations.
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