StyleIT interviews James Vincent

One of The Powder Group's favorite bloggers Sarah Conley of StyleIT, got a firsthand interview with our Director of Artistry James Vincent. Read below to hear their conversation.

"This weekend makeup artists, enthusiasts and beauty bloggers will descend on the Metropolitan Pavillion to attend The Makeup Show, a trade event showcasing the best products, techniques and talent from across the industry. James Vincent, the Director of Artistry for The Makeup Show, On Makeup Magazine and The Powder Group took a few moments out of his busy schedule to share a few insights into what we can expect from this weekend's festivities."

Haven't purchased your tickets yet? You still have time to purchase advanced tickets here.

It's been five years since the Makeup Show debuted in New York - what's changed over those five years?

Everything has changed. The entire world has become much more tech savvy and computer savvy and impacted by the economy and the changes on our planet. The understanding of terms that were formally only industry terms like HD, Camera ready and airbrushing as well as terms like green and organic have made consumers and artists hyper aware of what is going on their skin and how it is being applied. The internet has made information more available and celebrity more accessible even making celebrities out of makeup gurus, some established and some fledgling. Frugality has made women appreciate their product more and do more research on why some items out-perform others and artists and amateurs are spending more wisely.

How crucial have bloggers been to the development of The Makeup Show and the beauty industry?

Bloggers have become the messengers in the new media. They get information out more easily with more accessibility to larger groups of people. They are not bogged down by long run deadlines or overwhelmed by overhead so they can deliver their stories to their readers more readily. Facts and opinions have kind of become blurred in our traditional news media and I think that bloggers have given a voice to many people who have traditionally felt disenfranchised by traditional media and they can respond to the questions or deliver information to the general population or special interest communities making them an integral part of what we have done with The Makeup Show brand and have become the people in the industry that really help to launch new products and trends.

What are you most looking forward to from this year's show?

I am excited to see so many of our long time artists like Joanna Schlip working next to new additions like Charlie Green and Tegan Taylor. I love that a visionary like Dany Sanz, the creator of Make Up For Ever, will be teaching a hands-on workshop allowing a small group of artists to experience what makes her such an amazing makeup artist. Our seminars and show floor this year are full of first time vendors like Inglot and first time presenters who are bringing new ideas and innovations to the industry. The education is what separates this show from all the rest in my mind.

Each year The Makeup Show brings so many brands together under one roof - what are your favorite emerging brands from this year's exhibitors list?

I am always excited to see Armour Beauty and Knock Out Beauty. Their uptown glamour, downtown edge sensibility is exciting to me. Temptu, OCC, Kett and Graftobian are all introducing new airbrush systems that I think are very important to the advancement of the airbrush artist. Inglot is a must see for anyone who loves color. Their lip and eye palettes are perfect and their freedom system makes everything more manageable. Lastly, Paperself has some of the most interesting lashes for editorial and fashion work I have seen. Really remarkable.

If you could hope for The Makeup Show attendees to gain one thing from their attendance, what would it be?

Inspiration. Inspiration in their artistry, their careers, their community and their desire to become more credible artists that are achieving their own goals and their own ideas of success.

James Vincent is the Director of Artistry for The Makeup Show, The Powder Group and On Makeup Magazine. His resume includes clients as diverse as Lady Gaga, Liv Tyler, Joan Jett, Jillian Michaels, Regina Spektor and Jane Fonda. He has worked with photographers including Alexander Thompson, Mike Ruiz and David Lachapelle. You can come see him this weekend at The Makeup Show NY.  

The Artist Series with Tegan Taylor

How did you know that the makeup industry was where you wanted to be?

I started working in the theater at a very early age.  That's where I first  learned theatrical makeup.  It just came naturally to me.  It doesn't feel like work.  

What do you love about working in makeup?

I love working in an industry where i can express my creativity.  Also, I work with the most amazing people, brilliant directors and actors.  Each job is a whole new experience.  I love the challenge.

What are the challenges you have to face working as a freelance artist?

You must be self-motivated.  This is a very competitive industry, and no job is ever guaranteed.  Also, shows get canceled, and start dates get pushed.  You have to be very focused, and very driven.  You also need to be thick-skinned and not easily discouraged.

What should someone who is looking to develop a career in makeup know before getting into the business?

It's very competitive, and overly-saturated with brilliant artists.  One must really love it.  Live it and breathe it!

What inspires you?

A challenging project.  Working with brilliant directors and actors is also very inspiring.

What are the most important qualities that a makeup artist can have?

Dedication, flexibility, discipline, punctuality. 

What makes you a good artist?

I'm always open to learning new techniques.  I'm flexible, I'll do whatever it takes to keep my clients happy.

As Department Head for such films as Avatar, A Christmas Carol and the soon to be released Yellow Submarine and The Adventures of Tin Tin, Tegan Taylor has had to know more than just how to create a character. In the age of digital film and incredible character effects, Tegan has had to be a technical wizard of sorts, understanding not only makeup application, but the technology and skills needed to create digital makeup. 
Tegan Taylor will be presenting the keynote Tegan Taylor – Avatar and the Age of Digital Makeup Sunday May 16, 10:00am - 11:30am  at The Makeup Show.  For tickets please visit www.themakeupshow.com

Artist Series with Valerie Hernandez

Our Online Editor Christina Farrell recently sat down with The Makeup Show Presenter Valerie Hernandez to discuss her recent photo shoot with Lindsey Lohan. Here is their interview, and the details of the shoot.

  

"The internet has been buzzing lately about the latest controversial photo shoot with Lindsey Lohan by famed photographer Tyler Shields.  Whether or not you like the shots, you cannot disagree that Tyler Shields photographs are outstanding, and make people talk.  These dark shoots of Ms. Lohan were taken for Tyler's new book "The Dirty Side of Glamor", and that is just what this is. 

One of my dearest friends, Valerie Hernandez created Lindsey's look for the infamous shoot, and passed along the products she used to create the sultry vibe.  I am crazy for the smokey eyes and sexy lips that Miss. Valerie did (although I am always impressed with her work, cause she is a brilliant artist!).    Here are the details directly from Val:

FACE:

• I used the Youngblood illuminator in Golden Sun on her cheekbones.
• Topped it with Mary-Lou Manizer from The Balm  "This duo product that can be used as a highlighter, shimmer, eyeshadow..etc. Its a perfect pearl shade that gives the skin just enough glow. Super rich in pigment so a little goes a long way. "
• Then I used a MAC cream blush in Virgin Isle on the apple of her cheeks and topped that with YB Loose Blush in Sherbert.
• I used the Warmth Hi-Def Powder by Youngblood to finish her off. "This powder is the best High Definition powder on the market!"

EYES:

• Shiseido Cream Black Khol pot all over her lid and underneath, smudged it out with a bronze cream pot by MAC.
• Set that with a dark velvet shimmer by Inglot.
• Lots of Mascara  called Blackout by Youngblood. "Im obsessed with the brush!"
• Groomed her brows with Lorac brow wax in Brunette

LIPS:

• Finally, I used OCC Lip Tars in Barely Beige and grand finale was Liptar NYFW.  "Lindsey loved the lip tars so much that I let her take mine!"

 Valerie Hernandez will be presenting this weekend at The Makeup Show New York.  She will be presenting on Monday May 17th at 1:15.  Come visit her this weekend, and learn her master techniques.  For more information please visit www.themakeupshow.com

Artist Series with James Vincent

* Our online editor for On Makeup Magazine Felicia Walker Benson interviewed The Powder Group Artist Director James Vincent to find out the details of his amazing work with Joan Jett.

My dear friend, Celeb Makeup Artist and MAKE UP FOR EVER ALLIANCE member James Vincent recently recreated Joan Jett’s sultry make up look for the New York premiere of “The Runaways” Keeping with her rock n’ roll roots, Joan wore a classic yet modern smoky eye. James used MAKE UP FOR EVER products to create Joan’s smoking hot red carpet look. 

Of the look, James says this: “the perfect Joan Jett eye takes subtlety, persistence and an understanding of what’s sexy.” Below, my dearest James shares with ThisThatBeauty a breakdown of how to get your Joan Jett on. I suggest you hustle your tail into your local Sephora, gather a few MAKE UP FOR EVER products, and recreate the look for your next night out. Its a classic look that exudes subtle sex appeal!

Completion:

• James kept the skin glowing and gorgeous with Make Up For Ever HD Elixir to add moisture to and perfect the skin. 
• He then applied a small amount of Make Up For Ever HD Invisible Cover Foundation #117, which provided a great canvas, as well as the new HD Invisible Cover Concealer for light, luminous, natural coverage, and a touch of HD Microfinish Powder to keep Joan looking polished all night.

Eyes: “The eyes are Joan’s most famous feature and she knows exactly what she wants to do to draw attention but still keep the look modern and fashionable,” says Vincent.

• Start with Make Up For Ever Eye Shadow #35 from brow to lash to create the perfect base. 
• Next, sweep Make Up For Ever Diamond Powder #11 gets across the brow bone for a beautiful highlight, and Make Up For Ever Eye Shadow #13 to bring depth to the crease. 
• Use the same shadow to line the top and bottom lashes for soft diffusion of the liner, which gives depth and drama and keeps the hard-edged liner look smoky and sexy. 
• MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Eyes #0L is the perfect black pencil to apply inside the eye and along the top and bottom lash lines. 
• Then, apply a bit of Aqua Eyes #2L to add a rich, brown warmth to the look and keep it from looking hard and typical. 
• Smudge the pencil and set with MAKE UP FOR EVER Eye Shadow #139 for even more smokiness that works for every occasion.
• Lashes get extra attention with a liberal coating of MAKE UP FOR EVER Smoky Lash. And James says, “put the lash curler down and let the lashes stay straight and spiky for rock chick realness.”

Cheeks:

• Joan’s classic cheekbones are the type you wish you were born with, but can easily fake by contouring right below the bone from temple to apple with MAKE UP FOR EVER Eye Shadow #13. 
• Keep blush natural by avoiding strong color. 
• Just use a touch of Powder Blush #69 on the apple and Matte Bronze #2 at the highest point of the cheek bone give life and light to the makeup and balance off the strong eye. 

Lips:

• MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Lip pencil #3C gives every girl the ability to keep their lips looking luscious without worrying about where it’s going to end up. 
• A touch of MAKE UP FOR EVER Fascinating Lip Gloss #9 in the center of the mouth completes the look and lets everyone know you love rock n’ roll as much as Joan.

*James Vincent will be teaching  Tools of the Trade and Lashes, Lips and Brow Beauty at The Makeup Show NY on May 16th and 17th.  For more information please visit www.themakeupshow.com

Artist Series with Michael DeVellis

The Powder Group founder Michael DeVellis took time out to answer a few questions about the Makeup Industry, On Makeup Magazine and The Makeup Show with Examiner Beauty Expert Candice Jackson.  Here is a portion of their interview; the interview in its entirety can be viewed here.

CJ: How long have you been in the makeup industry?

MD: 18 years

CJ:  That's great! What made you choose this industry as a profession?

MD: I was working with MAC Cosmetics in Retail Management and was asked to take on the project of developing the MAC PRO line which led to the development of the Artist Relations Dept at MAC. After nearly ten years, I wanted to expand the reach of the type of work I was doing to include the entire industry. That is when I started The Powder Group.

CJ: What made you start the Powder Group?

MD: The lack of a broader focus on the community of professional makeup artistry. There were so many options for those in the field of hair styling..and so little for makeup artists.

CJ: And how about On Makeup Magazine?

MD: The lack of a solid, artistry driven publication that focused on the art and career of makeup artistry. Other publications were either all Special FX, or hair and salon based. These didn’t appeal to me as a reader and I wanted to put out a publication that celebrated the beauty and art aspects of the industry.

CJ: That's awesome! Have you thought about starting your own product line?

MD: I’ve started a few for other companies, and yes have thought about starting one through The Powder Group. But with the selection of amazing brands that we have as our clients for The Makeup Show and On Makeup Magazine – I’m not sure the industry needs yet another line when there are so many great ones out there.

CJ: Who are some of your favorite makeup artists?

MD: There are so many amazing artists that we work with at The Powder Group and The Makeup Show and On Makeup Magazine, there is no way to choose one. Every artists that we work with has special things about them that stand out and inspire us.

CJ: What are some things that inspired you to be a part of the Makeup Artist Industry?

MD: The passion of the artist. The commitment of the professional makeup artist that it takes to decide to pursue a career where success is so relative and the struggle to make it so constant.
It is so gratifying to be able to play a small part in the growth and development of so many pros who are so driven by their craft.

CJ: What products are a must have for Professional Makeup Artists? 

MD: There are many important products that every makeup artist should have in their kit. But more important that having the right product, is having the right reasons for being in the career, having the right attitude, having the support of a community and knowing where you want to end up so you can develop a strong path to get there.

CJ: Good advice. Do you have any recommendations or other advice for aspiring makeup artists?

MD: Yes absolutely. Don’t take any days off. Understand your entire industry with passion and commitment. Create a path for yourself that is always clear and in the back of your head as you make important decisions about the work you do and the direction your work takes. Attend every pro artist focused event that you can in order to stay on top of your industry and to create strong bonds to the global community. Don’t make excuses for not being able to be your best.

CJ: So, with no days off do you have any hobbies or interests other than your work in the makeup industry?

MD: Of course. There are the somewhat predictable ones of course like travel and art. Theater is a big interest as well, and photography has always been a passion. One of the best things about publishing On Makeup Magazine is that I can find ways of incorporating my other interests into the magazine and keeping me entertained along the way.

*Michael DeVellis and The Powder Group will be at The Makeup Show NY from May 16th-17th at the Metropolitan Pavilion.  

The Makeup Show brings together top industry exhibitors, speakers from all areas of the makeup artistry, new product introductions and special pro-only offers - all in an intimate setting where insider-only tips and techniques are traded between the best in the business.

Visit:  www.themakeupshow.com

Be Inspired.

"The secret of success in life is for a man to be ready for his opportunity when it comes." -Earl of Beaconsfield
BE INSPIRED. 
10 Workshops designed to reignite your creativity.
The Makeup Show NY

1) WORKING IN NYC

Working In New York
Monday, May 17, 1:00pm - 2:00pm
In this audience question and answer format panel discussion led by Director of Artistry, James Vincent, representatives and artists from a variety of areas in the industry talk about what you will need to do to become a successful agency, union or editorial artist. Discussion clarifies the role of the artist in all aspects and also includes facts and opinions on building your book, branding your name, assisting top artists and what you need to do to become a superstar makeup artist today.


2. AVATAR DEPARTMENT HEAD TEGAN TAYLOR
Avatar and the Age of Digital Makeup
Sunday May 16, 10:00am - 11:30am
As Department Head for such films as Avatar, A Christmas Carol and Beowulf, Tegan Taylor has had to know more than just how to create a character. In the age of digital film and incredible character effects, Tegan has had to be a technical wizard of sorts, understanding not only makeup application, but the technology and skills needed to create digital makeup. Tegan will discuss the process of creating digital makeup, how this has effected her work and the work of the artists on her team, and demonstrate the techniques that have made her the most called upon makeup artist in digital work.


3. MAKING UP WITH CHARLIE GREEN
Making Up With Charlie Green
Sunday, May 16, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Every successful artist develops a signature style that helps them gain notoriety. In this Keynote Charlie Green gives you a first hand glimpse into the fun, fresh and flirty artistry, creative energy and charming personality that have helped her make her mark on the fashion and celebrity scene. In this Keynote Charlie shares the secrets that have kept her working with the top photographers, models, and magazines in the business including celebrities for the covers of many national magazines, including Vogue, Elle and GQ. Listen as she discusses her career, offer tips on how to take yourself to the next level, and demonstrate the techniques that have made a renowned makeup artist and mentor with such celebrities as Naomi Campbell, Jewel, Tyra Banks, Kelly Clarkson and Elizabeth Hurley, to name just a few.

4. SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE'S LOUIE ZAKARIAN
A Career in Makeup- Working on Saturday Night Live
Monday, May 17, 10:30am - 12:00pm
For more than 16 years and 15 seasons Louie Zakarian has helped to create some of the most memorable characters on what has arguably become the most famous late night program of all time - Saturday Night Live. As Department Head for this iconic production, Louie gets the opportunity to work with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, and work on some of pop cultures coolest artistic creations. In this first-time event Louie will discuss the inner workings of SNL and demonstrate some of the key techniques and characters that have given his career with SNL the longevity it has deserved.

 5. MICHAEL DEVELLIS: TEN WORDS
Your Next Ten Words for a Stronger Career
Sunday, May 16, 12:15pm - 1:15pm
Join The Powder Group, The Makeup Show and On Makeup Magazine founder, Michael DeVellis, as he helps you uncover the key techniques and business skills essential in taking your business to the next level; no matter what part of the industry you work in or how long you've been working in the business. In this popular series, Michael will focus on ten key words that should be the center of your career path and business strategy. The industry today entails a understanding of business, interpersonal, marketing and branding skills that take you and your work in a new direction. This event is the starting point for your strongest career ever. This is a brand new ten words event! Don't miss it!


6. RED CARPET BEAUTIFUL WITH JOANNA SCHLIP
Red Carpet Beautiful with Joanna Schlip
Monday, May 17, 3:00pm - 4:30pm
Joanna Schlip's take on red carpet beauty goes beyond the basics to ensure that every one of her clients is beautiful and memorable in a moment which we are sure to see for years to come. In this Keynote Joanna shares the details of her own career and talks about the tips, tricks and techniques that have made her the go to for Hollywood's hottest stars. Watch as Joanna Schlip reveals the secrets to long lasting makeup that will be flawless in photographs, video and in person and have made her the favorite of celebrities like Eva Longoria, Scarlett Johansson, Jessica Simpson and Kim Cattrall to name a few and will help you understand how to have your clients looking their best.


7. STATE OF THE UNION
Valerie Gladstone - President of the Local 798
Sunday, May 16 - Seminar Space B 4:15pm - 5:00pm
Working on today's hottest films, television shows and theatrical productions most often means working as a union makeup artist and understanding what you need to know about this area can get you working much faster on these projects. This important seminar will review the need-to-know information about getting into and working in the Local 798 with Union President Valerie Gladstone along with panelists and Local 798 Union members Donyale McCrea, Marjorie Durand, Michele Paris, Cindy Gardener, Leslie Shreve, Thelma Pollard, Nicki Ledermann, Michael DeVellis, Mary Ann Skiba and John Perkins.

 8. MAKE UP FOR EVER CREATOR DANY SANZ HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS
Makeup Beyond Beauty: Dany Sanz
Master Workshop
Sunday May 16 - 10:45am - 1:45pm - Studio 3
This workshop with Dany Sanz, Creator and Artistic Director of Make Up For Ever, will force you to release your pre-conceived notions of makeup and delve into the "art' of artistry. Dany will demonstrate how to use basic makeup products in unexpected ways, creating new colors, textures and techniques in a master class that truly celebrates the magic of makeup.


Exploring the Avant-garde: Dany Sanz
Master Workshop
Monday May 17 - 10:45am - 1:45pm - Studio 3 SOLD OUT
This workshop with Dany Sanz, Creator and Artistic Director of Make Up For Ever,
introduces you to the unconventional, offbeat and sometimes whimsical side of fashion makeup for editorial or runway. Dany will discuss her creative process and help you to develop an editing eye...which is critical in creating these extraordinary looks. The instructor will demonstrate essential techniques and help you develop your individual artistic point of view.


*Hands-on Workshops are at an additional cost to attendees. Please contact Amanda@metropolitanevents.com to register.

9. UNDERSTANDING PHOTOGRAPHY
Jon Hennessey and Brandon Showers Photography
Saturday, May 15th 2010 - 9am - 5pm - Studio 2
This event is crucial for anyone working in or wanting to work in any print medium including bridal, editorial, headshot or other print work. In this hands-on workshop makeup artist Orlando Santiago and photographer Brandon Showers will bring you through the creative and critical process of designing, applying and photographing a flawless beauty look on a variety of faces. You will come to understand how attention to detail is essential for makeup artists as you participate in the photo process and then see your models on a monitor for critical evaluation. You will learn how to correct and perfect your application for a perfect photo every time positioning you as an artist that understands everything a photographer needs. Attendees will receive a disc of these un-retouched images for personal study or use. Images may be photo re-touched for an additional fee. Check our Brandon's work at http://www.brandonshowers.com/ *There is an additional fee to attend this event. TPG Pro members receive a discount on event fee. Contact amanda@metropolitanevents.com for more information and to register.

10. CRYSTAL WRIGHT: 30 DAYS AT 100%
30 Days at 100 Percent
Sunday, May 16, 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Industry business expert Crystal Wright joins us with a very special presentation of her newest program - 30 Days at 100%. The innovative program begs the question: How would your life be different if you were striving to live at 100 percent, and then challenges you to complete the sentence, "I am 100 percent when..." in eight different areas of your life. In this groundbreaking program Crystal helps you to identify and manage yourself to your own 100 percent and insists that by eliminating bad habits, choosing to do something new, and refusing to take no for an answer from anyone, including yourself you can begin to achieve again, or for the first time in your life. Learn more about Crystal Wright at http://www.crystalwrightlive.com/
 
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FOR UPDATES LEADING UP TO, AND THROUGHOUT, THE SHOW!