Restorative Airbrushing

This last Tuesday we, once again, had the opportunity to step into the restorative art class of professor Matt Smith at the Wayne State University's mortuary science program. Professor Smith, one of the nation's most respected restorative practitioners, guided Jilliann Rutherford, our student we have been following for our series The Embrace of Dying, and her fellow students in the 3rd floor lab trying their hand at using airbrush techniques.

As Matt explained, airbrushing allows for a quick drying application as well as a consistent, natural look of the facial skin. Of course these are not things we think about in our daily lives. For these students of the graduating class of 2015, these techniques and extreme focus to detail will only ensure a better experience for families who are already dealing with very difficult times mourning the loss of a loved one.