From Palette to Canvas: A Journey Through Art.

Makeup can transcend its usual purposes in the world of art, becoming a vibrant narrative tool. Let's delve into a few iconic paintings where the subject's makeup adds unique layers of meaning:

· Makeup: Kahlo is depicted with bold, unibrow, a signature element, and vibrant red lipstick.

· Meaning: The unibrow challenges traditional beauty standards and celebrates individuality. The red lipstick, a symbol of Mexican culture, further emphasizes her cultural identity and bold spirit.

· Makeup: The woman sitting at the counter wears bright red lipstick, and dress, arguably the only pop of colour in the otherwise muted scene.

· Meaning: The contrasting red lips become a symbol of loneliness and isolation, drawing attention to the woman amidst the diner's quiet atmosphere.

· Makeup: Each Marilyn Monroe portrait features bright red lips and exaggerated black eyeliner, a signature look instantly recognizable.

· Meaning: The repetition and vibrant makeup highlight Warhol's critique of consumerism and mass media's obsession with beauty. The iconic red lips become a symbol of mass production and the homogenization of individuality.

· Makeup: The woman's face features dramatic, thick black eyeliner and exaggerated red lips, mirroring the fashion of the time and reiterating a portrayal of consumerism.

· Meaning: The depiction of makeup here serves a dual purpose: it not only mirrors the prevalent fashion trends of the time but also underscores the pervasive influence of consumerism within society. What's particularly intriguing to me is the irony inherent in the artwork's intended critique of mass media and consumerist culture, juxtaposed with Lichtenstein's open admission that his paintings were 'based on' comic strips. This admission raises questions about the fine line between homage and appropriation in art. As comic strip artist Hy Eisman bluntly put it: “It’s called stealing”.

These are just a few examples of how artists utilize makeup in their work. By examining these details, we gain a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted nature of makeup. It transcends its cosmetic function, becoming a powerful tool for storytelling, social commentary, and revealing the complexities of the human experience.

As an artist myself, drawing, painting and makeup artistry are intrinsically linked and I pull from my experiences in each and apply the techniques across mediums.