Confession Time: Why a professional Makeup Artist is “over” makeup (well, not exactly)
I’ve been a Makeup Artist for almost two decades and its finally time to spill the tea… I'm over of the endless parade of the 'latest' makeup must-haves (Just how many eyeshadow palettes does one need? Spoiler: We all have the same number of eyelids.) and tutorials that seem aimed at beginners, students and enthusiasts at best. What really gets my brushes bristling is the thirst for knowledge that goes beyond the surface. Of course, I adore the artistry of makeup, and there's nothing quite like the rush of mastering a new technique. But let's talk deeper skills – the kind that don't come in a compact. I want MORE in-depth and better education. There’s more to being a makeup artist than just wielding that brush.
In the glitzy world of showbusiness, it's not just about the glam (or the gore). It's about crafting stories, sculpting characters, and the alchemy of collaboration. That, to me anyway, is wayyyy more important than learning about a new highlighter. I'm all for the thrill of a fresh product drop, but what about leveling up our game? Let's deep dive into the ecosystem of entertainment, learn the language of lighting, the rhythm of the set, and how to weave a visual tale that captivates. It's time to swap the eyebrow tutorials for a masterclass in storytelling, to step into the shoes of those we adorn, and truly understand the narrative behind every stroke of the brush. Because, my fellow artists, that's where the true enchantment lies – in the symphony of skills that elevate us from makeup artists to creators of dreams.
I yearn for a renaissance in our education, where the focus shifts from the superficial to the substantial. Let's delve into the psyche of the actor, understand the canvas from their perspective, and in doing so, refine our own mastery. In the heart of collaboration lies the true alchemy of makeup artistry. It's not about the next best concealer; it's about concealing the boundaries between departments, blending expertise to enhance our narrative prowess and carving away at long held barriers. This is where the true magic happens
Quick story time! Many moons ago, I used to be a competitive Body Painter, and I body painted for many years before actually being on the other side of the brush myself. Now, I have always taken care of my models and talent, making sure they had enough water, kept their knees bent to avoid passing out, ate, took breaks etc. But nothing gave me a better insight into just how to take better care of them, like being body painted myself. It wasn’t until I had to stand still for 6 hours (while being body painted by then 5-time world champion body painting duo Scott Fray and Madelyn Greco *humble brag*) the first time, that I realized it was a full-body work out. I was a quivering limp noodle by the end of the painting day (not to mention the hour long photo shoot that followed) and in complete shock! HOW?! I had no idea that standing still was so much work. What a revelation! Maybe this is obvious to some, but I didn’t have a clue the full extent of the situation until I became the canvas.
What I’m trying to say is, we desperately need different perspectives to become the best professionals we can be. I think professionals need different outlets for inspiration, motivation and education than what is mostly offered and seems to be intended for the beginner, student and enthusiast (or just to drive sales, thanks consumerism!). I want to be a beacon to other professional Makeup Artists who feel the same. I hope to build a more intentional community of Artists who wish to take their craft to higher levels and be surrounded and inspired by other Artists who wish to do the same.
For many years now, I have felt that my personal community was sorely lacking and I struggled to find the connection and resources to discover the community that my soul was desperately longing for. Then, this year, an epiphany…I have to build that community for myself. It doesn’t just exist in a vacuum, waiting for me to stumble across it. Or even worse…it isn’t going to come knocking on my hermit cave door. So, through this blog and beyond, I hope to build that community and be a guiding light to others who are like minded, others who want more and who are longing for a deeper more meaningful connection, and continued education in this weird place we know as the Entertainment Industry.
Don’t get me wrong there does exist a few amazing resources out there for the professional working Makeup Artist. One such resource is The Powder Group! The founders Michael DeVellis and James Vincent have created a wonderful community for support, connection and continuing education in this ever growing industry. Their work is inspirational and to be commended! I’d love to see more of this type of community created for working professionals. Check out their website to learn more about their mission and how to become a member!
That’s all for now! Until next time!