By: Bella Fitzpatrick
Valerie, Can you share a bit about your journey into the world of makeup artistry? What sparked your passion for makeup, and how did you transition into becoming a professional makeup artist?
“Growing up, I enjoyed buying and collecting fashion magazines to create moodboards. I appreciated a woman’s beauty and wanted to create a career that would support how a woman feels and looks beautiful.”
“During my school years, makeup was not as popular as it is now; it was much more simple. Computers and the internet were not in every home at that time, so I couldn’t just open YouTube and learn a technique, and frankly speaking, it never crossed my mind to learn makeup, especially to make it my profession, until I was 16 years old.”
“I completed my studies in 2006 and became a professional makeup artist. I am forever thankful for the years of experience and opportunities I’ve received prior; it has helped me grow as a person professionally and personally. These opportunities allowed me to support others by offering group lessons for those who wish to learn.”
Can you share your experience of working with Collective Resiliency? In what ways has this collaboration influenced your perspective on beauty and resilience within the makeup industry
“I absolutely love working with Collective Resiliency. They always create a fantastic atmosphere for creativity and an easy, pleasant level of communication. Makeup work becomes a meditation for me. I can compare it to listening to some amazing music that you enjoy. I learned a lot from Collective Resiliency. The most important thing you should take care of is yourself first, your soul and your body. It will have a positive influence on your life, and of course, this energy transfers to your work. There is always something to be grateful for, even if you experience difficult times.”
As an expert in your field, could you describe your unique approach to makeup artistry and your signature style? What sets your work apart and makes it distinctively yours?
“Lately, eyeliner has become my focus within my creative artistry. I pay a lot of attention to detail and discovered a way to do perfect eyeliner of different shapes. If, in 2014, you told me I would be able to do it, I wouldn’t believe you simply because, at that time, it was hard for me to draw even a simple line, but I made it a goal to master it. It’s simple things like this that can make a difference in my industry. Simple techniques that will enhance the beauty of a woman. It’s not only skills but professional tools that help you accomplish the overall goal. I just discovered those tools by trying different techniques, but in general, my type of makeup is for photoshoots and events.”
Reflecting on your career, are there specific milestones or projects that you consider particularly significant or rewarding? How have these experiences contributed to your growth as a makeup artist?
“Last year, I started my makeup career in the USA, and during a short period of time, I received some amazing opportunities that I am grateful for. One amazing opportunity was the Wet n Wild makeup brand. I was able to adapt and work extremely fast due to the demands on set. This allowed me to gain more experience and growth within my industry. Also, my work for Best Selling Author Denita Austin for her recent photoshoot for Collective Resiliency helped my portfolio as well. Her work was featured on a billboard in New York Times Square. I was really proud to be part of this project and I also just enjoyed working together. It’s always about your network and community.”
The makeup industry can be dynamic and demanding. What challenges have you faced, and how do you navigate them? How have these challenges shaped your resilience and approach to your craft?
“I think that human relationships are the most important in this sphere. People want makeup skills but also to feel comfortable working with you as a person. This industry is competitive and can be a bit challenging, so sometimes you are not chosen for projects that you may desire; it’s completely understandable. I just accepted it, which has allowed me to become more resilient. I became stronger and moved forward with gratitude.”
Building a sense of community within the makeup artist industry is crucial. Are there specific initiatives or collaborations that you find valuable in fostering a sense of community?
“It’s important to build a network in this industry. That’s why you should collaborate with photographers, models and other creatives. It will bring good results in the future. Just be patient and enjoy your path without expectations. Develop your skills and grow as a person. Build good relationships with people that you enjoy working with.”
Can you share some of your favorite makeup techniques or trends that you currently enjoy working with? How do you stay updated and experiment with new styles while staying true to your expertise?
“I learn about trends from Instagram. It’s important to follow trends in makeup. But also, it’s important to ask your client about preferences because sometimes trends are very unique but do not necessarily match everyone’s tastes. For now, I like to work with eyeliner. Light sparkling eyeshadows, golden eyeshadows, matte peachy, brown colors; however, the client’s wishes come first, of course.”
Mentorship is often a key aspect of professional growth. Have you had mentors who guided you in your journey? How important is ongoing education for makeup artists, and what advice would you give to those seeking to enhance their skills?
“Education is key to growth, moving forward, and reaching your goals. I encourage myself to learn about my industry every chance I get. If you just started your makeup career, then you should have offline education where you can practice a lot with a teacher guiding you. I have makeup artists that I like and learn from. This is how you improve your skill set as well, by learning from others. There is always something to learn.”
For aspiring makeup artists looking up to you, what words of inspiration or advice would you offer? How can they navigate their own journeys and build a successful career in the makeup industry?
“It can be a difficult journey from the creative side to the entrepreneurial side of makeup artistry. You need to really love what you do to keep going. To be in this sphere not because of money but because of creativity, because makeup is you, and you are a makeup if it makes sense. You will meet a lot of difficulties. You will be hurt, you will cry, you will want to give up every day, but the only advice that I can give is never give up! Stay Focused and just keep going. Last year I started my makeup career from the beginning in the USA. It was very hard emotionally, but I didn’t let it stop me or give up on my overall vision and dream. No one and nothing should stop you from your dreams. You are worth it, and you deserve the best in this life! Keep going without any expectations, but work hard and develop your skills. I believe in you!”
How can we learn more about your work?
“You can view more details about my work on my Instagram page.”
Published By: Aize Perez
