We are thrilled to partner with the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) to promote all the talented artists who are finalists for the 2015 NAHAs (North American Hairstyling Awards), the most prestigious hair and beauty award in the country. We had the honor of interviewing dynamic hairstylist and, one of this year’s finalists in the “Hair Color“ category, Marlo Steenman. Check out our exclusive interview with Marlo and get the scoop on what fuels her passion for color.
Tell us a bit about your nominated collection this year. What was the inspiration behind the looks? How did the creative process unfold?
This collection I've named Eclipse and inspiration didn't come right away. It was 8 months of working on mannequins and a lot commitment. I always look at what's going on with fashion and clothing. While looking at a shoot from a well known artist, I loved the way the hair looked and flowed. So I went from one image and just started to slowly get the collection and colour combination. I loved how one colour ended where one colour started. Then it happened, I couldn't stop! I went through many, many mannequin heads to perfect the lines because they were done free hand. I really wanted the colour to be all the way through so you see strong colour. It needed to be perfect!
Were there collections in other categories that you found inspiring or particularly appealing?
There are always collections at every NAHA that are inspiring. Looking at other artists work is like going through a museum of beautiful paintings and artwork.
What was one defining moment in your career?
We all have a few defining moments in a career, but mine was about 4 years ago when I met a man by the name of Phillip Capobianco. He really guided and pushed me to start doing photo shoots. Through him I was able to meet a number of amazing artists who always support me.
Which non-hair related areas do you constantly find yourself being inspired by?
My last non hair related inspired moment was in Barcelona, Spain. Everywhere you looked there was beautiful Mosaic Art and, beautiful colour and shapes. It was perfectly imperfect!
How will you celebrate a win in your category?
The first thing I would do is to phone my team to congratulate them on the win, then phone my family and my amazing husband to thank them for the support. Then of course “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!”
Who influenced you the most in your career?
There are many people that influence you throughout your career. The strongest influence in the last 5 years has been Angelo Seminara. I look at his photos and I am always falling in love!
If you hadn't found Hairdressing, what do you imagine you'd be doing instead?
It's so hard to imagine not being a hairdresser! If I wasn't doing hair, I would be a stand up comedian or I would be forced to be a Victoria Secret model!
Do you have a ritual or lucky item you'll be bringing to the awards?
My lucky charm will be a bracelet my 4 year old Lola made for me.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
My guilty pleasures are bracelets and perfume! I can't stop buying either one!!!
Be sure to STALK Marlo Steenman to see the rest of her stunning hair art, and wish her luck at the upcoming awards!
