In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly talented makeup and prosthetics designer, Stef Knight. With over 30 years of experience, Stef takes us through their fascinating journey from DIY methods in the early days of makeup artistry in Aotearoa, to becoming a sought-after makeup artist in the competitive worlds of fashion and film. We chat about their initial struggles in New York, their successful career in London, and their move back to New Zealand where they found new opportunities. Stef shares insights into maintaining a good work-life balance, nurturing their team, and how they stay grounded through mindfulness practices. Whether working on massive film sets or indie projects, Stef's passion for storytelling and attention to detail truly shine through. Join us as we explore the artistry and dedication that go into creating stunning makeup designs for the screen.

(00:01:12) Getting into Makeup "by Accident"

(00:08:18) Growing Up in Thames, Obsessed with Fashion

(00:13:26) Working as a Makeup Artist in London

(00:17:56) 13 Years as a Makeup Artist in London

(00:21:37) Deciding to Move Back to New Zealand

(00:26:09) Trying Fashion Work in New Zealand

(00:31:12) Working in Film and Using All Skills

(00:32:41) Getting into Prosthetics in New Zealand

(00:41:13) Balancing Huge Films and Indie Projects

(00:42:40) Design Process and Collaborative Approach

(00:47:05) Finding the Right Team and Personalities

(00:52:05) Meditation, Spirituality, and Clean Living

(01:00:39) Character Building and Collaborative Art

(01:05:49) Crazy Events in London and Work in New Zealand

(01:08:38) Knowing a Bit of Everything and Future Projects

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In this episode, Auckland-based makeup artist Shane Cyrus delves into his career evolution from aspiring hairdresser to trusted makeup artist, sharing the motivations behind his shift to makeup artistry. We uncover his experiences at makeup school, the pressures of perfectionism, and his eventual entry into the professional world with MAC. Gain insight into his international retail experience as he compares the client interactions and artist communities between Melbourne and New Zealand, and between MAC, Mecca, and Sephora. Shane touches on the considerations and joys of transitioning from working at MAC to freelancing, including the impact on Shane's personal and professional life. The episodes highlight Shane's personal growth, client interactions across diverse backgrounds, the world of fashion test shoots, and the realities of setting freelance rates. Shane's reflections on creative partnerships, career milestones, and future prospects provide a glimpse into the life of a dedicated and passionate makeup artist navigating the fashion industry's exciting yet challenging landscape.

• (00:00:22) Meet Shane Cyrus
• (00:02:44) From Hairdressing to Makeup
• (00:04:15) Makeup Education: Finding One's Stride
• (00:06:45) Launching a Makeup Artistry Career
• (00:11:46) Shane's Retail Odyssey
• (00:13:02) Melbourne's Artistic Vibes
• (00:15:08) Transitioning to a New Chapter
• (00:16:23) Returning Home for Family
• (00:18:18) Transitioning to Freelance
• (00:19:03) Transition to Mecca Makeup
• (00:22:43) Navigating Makeup Industry Loyalties
• (00:26:54) The Value of 'Faking It'
• (00:27:18) Creative Motivation in Freelancing
• (00:28:32) Creative Control in Makeup Artistry
• (00:30:54) Art Beyond Skill in Makeup
• (00:31:56) Embracing the Freelance Journey
• (00:35:44) The Role of Instagram in Business
• (00:37:17) Diversity in Makeup Artistry
• (00:41:32) The Art of Test Shoots
• (00:45:33) The Art of Fresh Collaborations
• (00:49:09) Parris Goebel Masterclass Project
• (00:53:51) Anticipating Creative Endeavours
• (00:55:22) Invoicing Woes for Contractors
• (00:56:10) Freelance Rate Strategies
• (00:56:56) The Final Three Questions

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Get ready to dive into the glamorous world of red carpet beauty with iconic kiwi makeup artist Amber Dreadon, a.k.a. Amber D! From her days at Smith and Caugheys in Auckland to celebrity events in LA, Amber pulls back the curtain on her vibrant journey and the art of keeping it fresh in the fast-paced makeup industry.

Discover the secrets behind collaborating with celebs like Lorde and staying inspired in an ever-evolving beauty landscape. Amber opens up about the personal challenges and professional victories transitioning to life in the US, adapting to different work cultures, and relying on her network. Her experiences underscore the importance of preparation, collaboration, and the constant hustle to keep the wheels turning in LA's competitive scene. Get a sneak peek into the intricate process behind beauty campaigns, the art of social media content, and the quest for innovation in a saturated market.

Whether you're a makeup enthusiast, aspiring artist, or just love a good behind-the-scenes scoop, this episode is the perfect blend of professional insights and personal stories that will leave you feeling inspired.

• (00:02:01) Early Makeup Influences
• (00:05:51) From Art to Makeup Artistry
• (00:07:36) Leaping into a Freelance Career
• (00:11:30) Navigating New Beginnings Alone
• (00:12:32) Securing a US Artist Visa
• (00:13:55) Landing An Agent in LA
• (00:18:57) Rewards and Challenges of Freelancing
• (00:23:38) Maintaining Professionalism with Clients
• (00:27:56) The Power of Publicists
• (00:28:58) Preparing Celebrity Makeup Looks
• (00:34:16) Behind Beauty Campaigns
• (00:38:19) The Power of Preparation
• (00:39:33) Timing for the Perfect Glam
• (00:43:49) Tips for Building a Makeup Career in LA
• (00:51:46) Maintaining Passion in Makeup Artistry
• (00:53:40) Evolving Trends in Beauty
• (01:02:15) The Final Three Questions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.