For the release of Creative Makeup – debut book from Rachel Duffy, we sat down to talk all things creative and make-up related! Check out what Rachel had to say…
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m a 34-year-old artist, educator, and mother hailing from Liverpool. As a mythology and art obsessive, I have always studied and appreciated these wherever I can, especially through discovering museums and galleries worldwide. I lecture in Art & Design in higher education and a true passion of mine is to share my knowledge and skills, which goes hand in hand with this publication.
Tell us a bit about your new book?
Creative Makeup is a publication that aims to inspire makeup artists of all abilities to enjoy playing with makeup and create their own designs by exploring the ones I have included. With tons of tips and tricks sprinkled throughout, 12 key looks with detailed pictorial instructions, and basic essential skills, this publication can guide and inspire anyone wanting to explore their passion of creative makeup!
What is your favourite project/technique featured?
It had to be the flapper starlet – this was a design that propelled my freelance career as a creative makeup artist and enabled me to connect with artists and brands worldwide. The retro glamour element is a theme throughout my work and I feel this oozes it.
How do you think you reached this point in your craft?
Coming from many routes in art and design I feel my education and experience over the 15 years has lead me down a path of artistic discovery. It allowed me to push my boundaries and learning along the way not to allow mistakes to have a negative effect, but to equip you with confidence and passion to persist, learn and keep trying.
Where do you look for inspiration: travel, other designers, Pinterest?
Art, mythology, and literature have always ignited my brain and I’ve always drawn themes for my work from these. I find them incredibly inspiring, especially for creative makeup designs, and as I keep learning it is the gift that keeps on giving!
What is the most challenging thing about being a designer/artist?
Artistic block can be very difficult to navigate through, especially when deadlines are at hand. But I’ve found that going back to my original inspirations will always help me to generate ideas and excitement. I’m an advocate for freeing up the mind by simply allowing yourself to ply with the materials and tools you have, with no expectation of perfection, but to get the rust of the creative wheels and have fun.
What makes up for the challenges?
The outcome! When you create a piece of work that outdoes your expectations and makes yourself proud.
What do you think the “Next Big Thing” in your craft will be?
I could honestly mention so many avenues here but in terms of creative makeup, I feel the next big thing will be artist merging more disciplines. Physical and digital pieces that challenge the viewer into the perception of reality in art and design.
Who (dead or alive) would you invite to the perfect MUA retreat?
Jack Pierce – the world’s original horror creative makeup artist! I would love the chance to pick his brains (pardon the horror pun) about his creative process when he made the signature Universal Monsters. I’ll always be in awe of him.
What advice would you give to your beginner self?
Don’t be wary to try new avenues when pursuing a career in makeup and art/design. Be bold and follow your gut instinct!
