BeautySchoolsListings.com

Can I “make-up” for a lack of formal training with my natural talent as a make-up artist?

Make-up artist

The art of doing make-up well requires many skills. First, the artist must be perceptive and be able to interpret the needs of their client. Second, they must have and if not acquire, extensive knowledge of the character or persona the client is striving for. This means the artist must be willing to put in time for research of a particular era and/or character. Unlike a painter, whose masterpiece comes from an intimate relationship between canvas and artist, make-up artists work closely with the production team to create the essence they are looking for on the screen. This might solicit feedback that is constructive of the make-up artist and therefore requires the skill of tactfulness and professionalism.

This is an entry-level industry where one starts at the bottom and works their way up the ladder. Often, entry-level is a trainee-make-up assistant, from which they work their way into a make-up assistant position, up to a make-up artist, and ideally reach the position of make-up Designer. Although a formal education is not required to practice the art of make-up on others, training and/or professional courses will be beneficial to the first step in this career, which is often apprenticeships and traineeships. Graduating from beauty school will open up doors for you that sheer natural talent cannot.