The spotlight will be on the art of special effects make-up, body painting, illusion and prosthetic techniques when the Body Art Awards returns this June - and several gay and lesbian artists and entertainers will feature in the one-off Auckland show. Body Art: A painted gay couple at 2008's Big Gay Out The event's artistic director is Jonathan Smith - the organizer of the annual Queen of the Whole Universe pageant fundraiser. Lesbian body-paint artist Magdalena O'Connor - winner of the Body Art section of last year's Style Pasifika – will enter a body-painted gay male couple into the Awards this year. Taane Meta and Tai Royal will be guest performers on stage – they have created a new dance company called Okareka and will be performing a piece from their new show. Now in its third year, the Body Art Awards will feature the industry's most exciting artists and performers. The showcase is designed not only to promote the growing industry but to also "enhance a positive image for youth and graduates of this excitingly diverse art form" says founder and director Mem Bourke. The event also provides a platform for talented artists to seek employment overseas in the film and theatre industries. New Zealand Body Art Awards 2008 is on stage at the North Shore Events Centre, Glenfield, Auckland on Saturday 14 June at 7.30pm. More details on the event are available on the link below.