A makeup artist is a skilled beauty professional who enhances a person’s appearance through expert application of makeup. Whether working in fashion, film, bridal, special effects, or retail, makeup artists use creativity and technical expertise to bring out the best in their clients. With a deep understanding of skin tones, facial structures, and cosmetic products, they create stunning looks tailored to each occasion and individual.
EMMA HACK
internationally acclaimed artist whose career began as a Makeup Artist, Entrepreneur
INDUSTRY ICON
Emma Hack is an internationally acclaimed Australian artist known for her captivating fusion of body painting, photography, and design.
Emma is an Adelaide-based artist working in the unique medium of body paint installation and photography. Exhibiting extensively throughout Australia since 1999, Emma’s astounding artworks have since captured the attention of collectors and art lovers worldwide.
Emma has received great acclaim for her refined body paint camouflage technique; through a combination of painting on canvas, body painting and studio-based photography, her work evokes a rich array of visual narrative and magical realism.
Best known for her Wallpaper series (2005-2010)- in which she painstakingly camouflaged the human form by hand painting her models into the remarkable designs of the late Florence Broadhurst. Emma Hack’s diverse artwork collections draw inspiration from the unique Australian flora and fauna, as well as Oriental influences.
Emma Hack’s collaboration with Grammy award winning musician Gotye resulted in the iconic, award winning music video for Somebody That I Used to Know, which has been viewed by over 800 million people worldwide, raising her profile in the US, UK and Europe. Emma has since worked on major artistic commissions for Motor Accident Commission, South Australia, where she built a sculpture of 17 bodies, painted as a crashed car, again drawing worldwide attention to her craft. Emma’s commission for WA Ballet utilised the form of 21 Ballet dancers to create their upcoming program imagery. Her 'Madame Hanoi’ portrait is currently the largest body art mural in the world, standing at 8m in height, gracing the walls of Celebrity Chef, Nic Watt’s restaurant of the same name in Adelaide.
Recently, Emma Hack has signed with NYC management, travelled to Miami and London for commissions and is currently working on her first collection after a 4 year sabbatical, watch this space! Her work is held in numerous private and corporate collections globally.
Details
What Does a Makeup Artist Do?
Makeup artists transform faces through the art of makeup, using advanced techniques to highlight, contour, and enhance natural beauty. They work in a variety of industries, from everyday beauty to high-fashion editorials and cinematic special effects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Consult with clients to determine their makeup preferences and needs.
- Apply makeup for various occasions, including weddings, red carpets, photoshoots, and performances.
- Use advanced techniques such as contouring, highlighting, and airbrushing for flawless finishes.
- Create character transformations for film, TV, theatre, and special effects makeup.
- Stay updated on beauty trends, skincare products, and makeup techniques.
- Recommend products and provide beauty education for clients or retail customers
- Work with photographers, models, and stylists to achieve cohesive looks for fashion and editorial projects.
- Maintain hygiene and sanitation standards for brushes, tools, and products.
Work Environments:
Makeup artists can work in diverse settings, including:
Bridal & Special Events:
Enhancing beauty for weddings, proms, and glamorous occasions.
Fashion & Editorial Shoots:
Collabourating with designers, photographers, and stylists.
Film, TV & Theater:
Creating character looks, special effects, and prosthetic makeup.
Retail & Beauty Counters:
Assisting customers in selecting and applying makeup products.
Freelance & Mobile Services:
Traveling to clients for on-location makeup services.
Makeup Education & Training:
Teaching aspiring makeup artists through academies and workshops.
Skills & Qualifications
Skills and qualifications required:
Completion of a Certificate III in Makeup or Diploma of Screen and Media
(Specialist Makeup Services).
Strong knowledge of colour theory, face shapes, and skin types.
Proficiency in various makeup techniques, including airbrushing and special effects.
Creativity and an eye for detail to craft unique and flattering looks.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Ability to work under pressure, especially in fast-paced environments like film sets or backstage at fashion shows.
Business and marketing knowledge for freelance or self-employed makeup artists.
Career Growth & Opportunities
Makeup artists can expand their careers by specialising in areas such as:
Bridal & Event Makeup:
Focusing on long-lasting, flawless makeup for weddings and special occasions.
Film & Special Effects Makeup:
Creating prosthetics, aging effects, and fantasy transformations for the entertainment industry.
Editorial & Runway Makeup:
Working with top fashion houses, designers, and photographers.
Beauty Retail & Product Development:
Becoming a brand ambassador, makeup consultant, or working in cosmetic formulation.
Education & Mentorship:
Teaching and training future makeup artists in academies or online platforms.