Taylor Chousky graduated from CMU College in 2013 from our Advanced Fashion Makeup Artist Program. Since graduating from CMU, Taylor has worked at MAC while collaborating with photographers in the industry to help build her portfolio. One of Taylor’s career highlights has been working on Toronto Fashion Week and she dreams of one day creating her own product line. We caught up with Taylor to hear why she loves being a makeup artist and what her dream makeup job is!
What inspired you to pursue a career in Makeup Artistry?
Watching America’s Next Top Model growing up inspired me to pursue a career in hair and makeup. I always loved watching the transformations and seeing what happens on set and everything involved in a photoshoot. Growing up, dancing had a huge influence from the beginning; I always loved the process of getting ready and the thrill of being backstage.
How did you decide on CMU College? What was your experience like attending CMU?
I enrolled to CMU simply because it’s the best makeup school in all of North America. The campus itself is unlike anything I’ve seen in real life. My class was super intimate and very hands on. I felt supported the whole way through and looked up to my teachers as mentors.
After graduating, how did you get started working in the industry?
Right after graduating, I worked at a MAC counter for a few years to gain exposure and help build my kit. Working alongside other feature makeup artists was a great way to learn techniques and tricks of the trade. I would reach out to photographers in hopes of collaborating to build my portfolio. The hardest part for me in the beginning was learning how to put yourself out there. Over time you will realize networking will be your best tool in this type of industry.
What’s your favourite part about being a Makeup Artist?
My favourite thing about being a Makeup Artist is having the freedom to express who you are showcased through your work. I really enjoy working with different personalities everyday and playing around with colours, features, and textures. For me, the best part about being on set is telling a story through an editorial from a hair and makeup standpoint. It’s fun to see how wardrobe, lighting and all the other components all seamlessly come together.
What have you been working on since graduating?
Since graduating from CMU I’ve been able to refine my portfolio and freelance full time. I had worked in a few hair salons over the years exploring the world of hair and found that the two compliment each other well. Having both in your repertoire will serve you well in our Toronto market and gives you a leg up in the industry.
Where do you find inspiration for the looks you create?
I find inspiration from everything; walking around the city, art shows, fashion/beauty trends, photographers all over the world. If you allow yourself to be creative and think outside the box you’ll be amazed with what you can do.
Best day on the job so far?
The best day on the job so far was being involved backstage for Toronto Fashion Week.
Dream makeup job?
My dream makeup job is to key a fashion show or work closely with a design team and create set looks for their models. I would love to have my own product line one day but that’s down the road.
What are your goals for the future?
Some of my goals for the future would be to find representation with an agency and solidity a long-term career in film and television.
Do you have any advice for aspiring Makeup Artists?
If I had one piece of advice to give, I would say, to know your worth and believe in yourself. Don’t compare yourself to others around you but be open to learning everywhere you go. You’ll be surprised what you might pick up. Anything is possible if you work hard and have a good attitude.
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