Making Faces for the Dead

James Edward Smith Jr., an instructor at the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, introduces restorative art, a skill to restore the facial features of deceased individuals for open casket viewings. The class involves students creating accurate sculptures of celebrities, enhancing their understanding of facial anatomy. Emphasis is placed on practice to improve proficiency. Handling trauma with care is crucial, akin to hospital care. Smith is passionate about providing families with a comforting memory picture when saying goodbye.

What is the primary goal of the Restorative Art class?

• To teach students how to paint portraits

• To study the history of famous artists

• To provide skills for restoring facial features of the deceased

• To learn about different funeral traditions

Why do students often choose celebrities for their restorative art projects?

• Celebrities have simpler facial features

• Celebrities are more recognizable and popular

• Celebrities' faces are less challenging

• Celebrities' faces are easier to sculpt

What is a crucial skill students must acquire for their projects?

• Developing photography skills

• Mastering digital art techniques

• Learning to paint with oils

• Understanding facial proportions

What is the expectation of families regarding restorative art?

• It should be done with care similar to medical treatment

• It should be done without any practice

• It should be done quickly regardless of trauma

• It should be done only for celebrities

Why is restorative art important for families?

• It helps in legal identification

• It is a form of entertainment

• It provides a lasting memory picture

• It is a requirement by law