So it’s been a few months since my last Artist Spotlight (sad face) but we’re finally back in action!
Today I’m so excited I get to feature my good friend and talented makeup artist Stephanie! Stephanie and I have known each other since we were children and we began working together professionally back in 2011. Her bubbly personality and infectious laugh are sure to bring a smile to your face and I can always trust her creative vision and talent to bring to life anything I may throw her way :)
What is your name?
Stephanie Veronica
Where are you located?
DC/Maryland/Northern VA
What do you do?
I am a professional freelance makeup artist.
How long have you been a makeup artist?
I would love to say all my life, but I’ve been doing makeup professionally for 5 years.
How did you become interested in makeup and when did you know you wanted to be a makeup artist?
I’ve always been interested in art, no matter what the form. But when I was a child, I wanted to be a clown when I grew up. I used to sneak into my mother’s makeup, create the best clown face I possibly could and parade around the house! When I grew a little older, my clown aspirations died off but not my love of the power of transformation. I used makeup to transform myself to anything from an Indian Princess to a Geisha. It was always fun and an outlet for me to express my creativity. It wasn’t until I was in my early 20’s that I realize that I could turn my love of makeup art into a satisfying career.
Who are some of your influences/inspirations?
Like many of my peers, my makeup style is heavily influenced by Mr. Sam Fine. I love how he can take any face, and with a few strokes of his brush, create a masterpiece. He is the man behind many of the beauties that we have admired for years in Black Hollywood. I also have studied the work of Kevin Aucoin, Reggie Wells, Kevin James Bennett, Eve Pearl, and Scott Barnes. Even some of the newer hot artists of our generation such as Mario Dedivanovic, AJ Crimson, Mally Roncal, Renny Vasquez and Alexandra Butler have all inspired me better my artistry and reach further toward my goals as a makeup artist.
What has been your favorite project that you’ve worked on so far?
It’s so hard to pinpoint one project that I loved the best! Since I have been working with DFinney Photography I have been able to do makeup for some of the most amazing shoots. I really loved them all. I must say that the shoot for KISS Magazine was pretty cool though. Also, the makeovers at the “Beauty Is Not A Fad” natural hair event was fun to do.
What other types of creative work do you do?
Other than makeup, I love music. I play a few instruments… I haven’t picked up anything lately so needless to say I’m pretty rusty. LOL!
What inspires you?
I draw inspiration from everywhere! Whether it’s a flower outside my house, a piece of fabric, or on a aspiring artist on YouTube. I’m inspired by life.
What keeps you motivated?
Being around young people keeps me motivated. I have several young ladies that assist me from time to time and their hunger to learn about makeup and the industry is amazing to me. To see their drive and their vision as they plan out their career, pushes me to keep reaching for my goals. For someone to say that I’m their mentor or that they look up to me and what I do as an artist is an honor and it makes me want to give them even more to look up to.
Any advice to fellow creatives (in your industry or otherwise)?
My advice would be to follow your passion and don’t listen to negativity- that goes for anything in life. Be always open to learn new things and do your research. If you are watching a TV show or a movie and you like the makeup, look at the credits and look up the artists. You become great by learning from the greats.
Where can we find you online?
website: www.runwayreadybysteph.com
facebook: www.facebook.com/runwayreadybysteph
twitter: @MUA_MzSqueeks
instagram: @Mz_Squeeks
I hope you guys enjoyed getting to know Stephanie a little better! To check out more of our work together, check out the “MAKEUP BY STEPHANIE” category over there on the right menu bar (or the tag below this post :) Please don’t hesitate to contact Stephanie if you’re interested in having her do your makeup for a photo session, event, special occasion, or just because!
‘Til next time!
-Danni
