Interviewed by Kaylene Peoples
Responses by Shahada Karim

How long have you been doing makeup?

I’ve been doing makeup professionally since 1997. Wow, that’s 14 years!

What are some of the makeup jobs you’ve done?

I’m the regular key artist for EM&CO fashion shows . . . that’s been such a wonderful experience. I also work with a lot of private clients during award season, mostly corporate for studios and the major networks. I’m currently doing a web series (that I’m not allowed to talk about), and putting together my first ever “group shoot” for aspiring makeup artists, hair stylists, and models.

What inspired you to become a makeup artist?

Heavens, I don’t really know. I’ve ALWAYS loved makeup. I come from an artistic family. My two sisters are gifted artists, and my brothers take after my mother with music. Since I don’t play any particular instrument well, and I can’t draw a stick figure, my attraction to makeup was almost fated.

I understand you have a blog. Tell me about that and what types of things you discuss on it.

I do have a blog. It’s called “Adventures In Makeup” (www.shahadakarim.blogspot.com). It’s designed to share practical application for higher-end and luxury makeup. There are a million blogs out there for drugstore makeup, but I find luxury makeup blogs lacking. Most of them showcase upcoming collections, but rarely show the products in action. One can be intimidated by the wide range of makeup out there, not to mention the prices of some of those products. So, I hope to share practical application tips and techniques with those who are interested in spending a little extra money on the perfect foundation or lipstick.

We had an interesting conversation about personal style a while back. Your work is being featured in the ‘Indie Hotspot’ section for an independent artist, Forte’ Carter. What kinds of tips can you give to aspiring indie musicians to help with their image?

Honestly, it’s all about looking neat and groomed. In my experience, many indie artists are more into their work, and less into their image. And that’s perfectly understandable. No one is saying you have to wear a full face of makeup or wear some ridiculous outfit. But you’d be surprised at what a good brow arch and a little bit of color can do for a face.

Do you have a favorite makeup artist/stylist who has influenced your work?

My favorite artist always has been (and likely always will be) Kevyn Aucoin. I bought his first book (The Art of Makeup) the year it came out in print in 1996. OMG I’m old!  I’ve purchased every book since. His techniques are timeless and can easily be modified. Right behind him is Alex Box of Illamasqua. You have not seen creation with makeup until you’ve witnessed her work. She’s phenomenal. For practical application, I love Sam Fine’s work.

What are some of the products you like to use and why?

I’m not loyal to any brand, but I do find myself constantly reaching for Guerlain and Bobbi Brown for foundations, and Chanel for powders. Foundations are a big part of the perfect look. Guerlain has perfected “finish” with foundations so they go on smooth and set perfectly. And no one can touch Bobbi Brown for foundation matching with skin tones and undertones. Plus, both brands are good for the skin. I’m not a fan of foundations that just mask the skin and possibly do damage. A client should leave with skin in better shape than when they came to you. I refuse to destroy a person’s skin with an awful foundation just because it looks good. I don’t think it’s too much to ask for a foundation that looks good and is good for you as well.

Highest High as a makeup artist?

I’ve had so many! My most amazing experience was shadowing makeup artist Angela Levin. She is the most amazing and most pleasant person you will ever meet. Despite her enviable list of celebrity clients, she is so down to earth! She’s the one who taught me to take care of the skin. I will always be grateful for the time I spent with her. Even after all these years, she’s still so positive and such a joy to speak with. She’s taught me a lot about being professional and pleasant, no matter what.

Lowest Low?

Never had one in this business. That’s the truth.

What advice would you give to an aspiring makeup artist?

Be prompt, and be professional. Show up to your jobs on time, and do your best to work with everyone. Be pleasant. There is no room for divas. It doesn’t matter how talented you are. If someone finds your attitude off-putting, you may find yourself out of a job.

See the Indie Hotspot photo shoot featuring independent artist Forte’ Carter photographed by Arun Nevader and makeup by Shahada Karim.