Brittany Sinclair graduated from CMU in 2012. A P1M represented hair and makeup artist, Brittany’s talent for makeup artistry has graced the covers of international Vogue, Paper Magazine and FASHION. She has worked with people like Keiynan Lonsdale, Laysla De Oliveira and Gabriel Macht just to name a few. A professional in the industry with an impressive list of work and features, Brittany took the time to discuss with us what got her into pursuing a career in makeup, her advice to aspiring makeup artists and her hopes and ambitions for the future.
What inspired you to pursue a career in makeup artistry?
I always loved art. My friends would ask me to do their makeup and I found it so interesting playing with colour and mixing things to create unique textures and colours. We didn’t have Youtube or Instagram growing up to depend on for inspiration. Magazines and television were the places we looked to find new ideas, products, and trends. It was such an adventure going to the store and looking through magazines. It was and still is one of my favourite things to do. I didn’t know makeup artistry was a career until I saw an ad for CMU, enrolled, and had one of the best teachers in the business who opened my eyes to the possibilities. She took me to a fashion show and from then on I was hooked!
What is your favourite thing about being a Makeup Artist?
There are so many wonderful things about being a makeup artist. I love that we get to go into work everyday, work with a team, and create something beautiful.
Why did you choose CMU?
CMU has the best teachers. You won’t find the calibre they have at the school anywhere else. It was an obvious choice. I enrolled in the 6 week “Fashion Photographic Makeup Artist Certificate” program because I knew that Fashion and Editorial makeup was what I wanted to focus on.
What did you enjoy most about attending CMU?
Learning about the technical ways of why and where we apply makeup to flatter different face structures was so interesting to me. We can all put on a colourful eyeshadow and call it a day, but knowing what colour and how to place the shadow to flatter your client is what is going to set you apart from other artists.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of enrolling at CMU? As well any words of advice for aspiring makeup artists in general?
You are learning from the best. Really pay attention to all of their advice and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Practice on as many faces and skin tones as you can.
After graduating, how did you get started working in the industry?
I started my career by working on-counter with MAC Cosmetics and assisting.
What have you learned being on set on all the projects you’ve done?
Be nice to everyone. You never know who will remember you and possibly request you for future projects.
From Vogue to Elle, to fashion shows and Music videos, what has been your favourite on the job experience thus far?
Oh wow, that’s hard to say. I have been fortunate to be on some really great projects and to have met a lot of amazing people. I really enjoyed my time on the counter and being on the special events team for MAC. I met my closest friends during this journey and have enjoyed every minute of it.
Where do you find the inspiration behind your looks?
Everywhere. The world is filled with so many beautiful things. Sometimes I will be walking down the street and see an interesting flower or the way the sun hits the side of a brick wall and think “Wow this is a really interesting colour combination” or “I love the way the light is diffused.” Art galleries are also an amazing tool for referencing.
What else do you hope to accomplish in the future? Any dream projects?
I would love to become a brand ambassador and work closely with a team to come up with seasonal campaigns, trend reports, and master classes. I love to teach and talk about new products and looks.
To see more of Brittany’s work, make sure to follow her on Instagram @brittany.sinclair.
