Nadira V Persaud - Make up & Hair

Practical lessons for creative students are integral. Theory does work but only up to a point. Sensory sessions are essential like today with UAL: University of the Arts London students; discovering and exploring products that tend to particular skin challenges.
I reminded them that they are our future experts.

Thus far in teaching in creative areas...the fear from students getting it wrong is huge...whilst the entire Btech syllabus is vague. Controversial but vocational courses offer structure of some sought but failing is essential. It's important to remind students that they can start off with an idea that can change and evolve, who knows with careful planning can go sideways.
I love that I documented a Polaroid from way back when and added my dismay, that it didn't work. To solve a problem holds weight in so many professions and in everyday.

It has taken about 3 years to confidently revisit my archives and hard to explain why, though likely because I've diversified within my career for about the 100th time to find balance, passion and financial stability, not something creative industries like to admit.
Looking back at all the test shoots I worked on and produced myself was an investment, never guaranteed but collaborating for free back then was the spirit of the times, there was so much to prove. I had hair skills as well as make up, so often did both, as shown here, with images from my Polaroid book. I think these are from the early 00's on a beautiful model, who had such delicate, pale skin I named the shoot "Snow White."

I might have what seems to still be deemed as a frivolous job, but as well as working with celebs and high profile people, I have personally been to No.10 Downing Street, the Althorp estate and the Royals.
If you consider this job as one without responsibilities, respect or importance, then think again.
Being a Make up Artist is at least 60% not about applying makeup.

Saturday was the first Look Good Feel Better UK Feel Better Fest in Dorking - a stunning venue in beautiful setting, offering much needed support to the cancer community.
Lots on offer, counselling, perfume to hair styling brands, great food, tombola, yoga and relaxation classes, plus nailcare sessions. I volunteered for the Skincare and Make up Workshop where I demonstrated how to do eye make up whilst meeting some wonderful women. It was a glorious day of sharing tips and tricks. I'm looking forward to the next one.

Wonderful addition to Cosmetics à la Carte range Bare Sculpt - soft and smooth formula to create an enhanced look.

As a freelancer, sometimes you forget the jobs or the names because you're work spans over live shows, TV and music video.

I can't quite believe this was almost 20 years ago!

Bloc Party - Hunting For Witches Brand new Bloc Party video. Third single from the album A Weekend In The City.

I had fun creating a look that had been in my head a few weeks - good to get it out at college while students cracked on with their assignment.
I used various items, mainly Kryolan Professional Make-up Aqua Colour palettes.
These loose, painterly techniques are free and energetic, rather than intricate. It felt good to be playful.
Thanks to student Jayda for modelling.

When I say bespoke, I mean bespoke! Today I was working on a shoot with a woman who had severe allergies to skincare, makeup and foods so I did some research and realised I just need one brand I trust and to make contact with, prior to the shoot day. I chose Cosmetics à la Carte and contacted Co-Founder and Cosmetics Scientist, Lynne Sanders - not only is having access precious, it aligns with their philosophy towards beauty - being bespoke with carefully considered ingredients.
As a Make up Artist, I could then reassure my client and sitter knowing I've arrived fully prepared. This profession isn't so much about the application as you might think but all the other moving parts that lead to a continuous and fulfilling career.