I am the first one to admit that I am very challenged when it comes to computers, Ipads, Iphones, and God knows anything else that has anything to do with technology. It’s just not my thing. Probably because I’m not that interested in delving into all that it takes to learn all that it takes to be very proficient. I’m an artist and this, although to some is artistic, isn’t to me.
I could be very creative with photoshop and any other number of programs that I may need to design and create a makeup. I know people who are amazing with these programs and create beautiful renderings but I am not one of those people.
You can call it what you want but I prefer paper and pencil or canvas and paint or brush and powder. I see it in my mind and can usually bring it to life on the face. Sometimes it may take me longer because I have to add and take away on the face instead of on the computer but I love to see the metamorphosis in real life. I love the physical contact with my subject and the verbal interaction with the person I am working with. We are together creating the character to which they will have to bring to life.
Is it easier for some directors to see the vision? Do they want to take the time to see if it will work in real life? I’m finding sometimes not. They love to be able to show any number of people the designs on a computer so all can discuss what works and what doesn’t. But to me, that’s not a reason why I decided to be a makeup artist. I wanted the interaction of everyone as a team to discover and design what the final project will be. I love that collaboration and that’s what excites me and keeps me motivated. Now I feel like it is designed by committee and my ideas are lost in the mix. Instead of being part of the process I feel more like an “employee”. And that makes me sad.
But I’m not giving up. Whether decisions are made by computer or text and not face to face as a collaboration I am still going to create. It’s everything to me and I will continue to go on believing that what I can bring to the table is my passion and love of my work.