Globally renown hair artist Damien Carney is truly an inspiration for the industry. In 2006, Damien created Damien Carney London which is an international, mobile hair academy offering education with offices in London, New York, and Los Angeles. With over 25 years in the industry, Damien Carney has become one of the most recognizable names and top artists in the industry. His work is eye catching, provocative, and always beautiful. Check out our interview with Damien to learn more about his career and see what advice he gives to aspiring stylists!

BANGSTYLE:  Can you give us a bit of background on your career?

Damien Carney: I have over 25 years of experience. I started at beauty school for 2 years, and then moved onto salons to continue my education. I moved to London, which was the Mecca of Hair at that time. I worked for Jingles International in the 70s as a teacher at the Academy, and later moved to Trevor Sorbie Academy, as Principal of Education. My time with Trevor Sorbie International allowed me to experience the challenges and fun of traveling worldwide. Eventually, I left Trevor Sorbie and opened my own salon. I owned the salon for 7 years, but ultimately decided that education and travel was what I loved to do. So, being a huge believer in always doing what you love, I sold the salon and currently travel the world conducting shows, seminars, photo shoots, and editorial and runway hair. And I wouldn’t want it any other way!

BANGSTYLE: How did you get your start in the hair industry and how did you know you wanted to make a career out of it?

Damien Carney: At an early age, while having my haircut at the barbers, I found it fascinating how people reacted to having their hair done. A confidence booster, creating an image from hair. Hairdressing fascinated me as it was always changing, and it can touch people in so many ways. I had no doubts that hairdressing was for me. Especially with all the things you can do with hair, the choices and opportunities are endless!

BANGSTYLE: What have been some of your career highlights?

Damien Carney: Moving to London was the best thing for me! Learning and being around the best in the industry, all the while taking in the fashion, culture, art, music, etc. is so unique. It’s so different, fearless…the British don’t mind standing out from the crowd. Trying new things and experimentation is the norm. And of course, the chance to work for and with Trevor Sorbie, an incredible man, artist and visionary. I learned so much and am truly grateful for the incredible opportunity that changed my life.

BANGSTYLE: Who or what inspires the looks you create?

Damien Carney: I always try and make things look aesthetically beautiful- whether it’s classic, trendy or avant-garde- it must look beautiful. Fashion today is very different than trends and fashion of the past. The trends are so elastic – there are trends within a trend, there’s so much going on and, moving on quicker than ever before. We live in a quick, disposable world and hair is no different, so you have to stay current and on top, otherwise you get left behind. I find myself inspired by fashion, films, art, music, architecture, etc. like most people. But the most important thing is not where you look, but how you look. I can see one idea that appears great one day and then look at the same thing and see nothing the next day. I don’t like to over analyze or over think. I go with my instincts and never try to force some thing to work. I love art, photography, fashion…I really draw my ideas from everywhere and everything, there are no boundaries.

BANGSTYLE: How would you describe your aesthetic?

Damien Carney: Stylish, memorable, beautiful, unique, individual. I like to work technically, I like to work free-hand and free spirited. I think that shows on my work. I work on a concept, execute and complete and then move onto something else. I get bored easily. It’s important to simulate myself constantly.

BANGSTYLE: Any advice for aspiring stylists?

Damien Carney: Work and work hard! Never let anyone tell you ‘you cant do this, ‘you can’t do that’, and ‘you’ll never achieve this’. At the end of the day, it’s your journey and your destination – never forget you’re the one in the driver’s seat! Education is the key to staying fresh, and that doesn’t necessarily mean a typical classroom situation. Education is keeping your eyes open in the world around you and being inspired by what you find. Look, listen, absorb, digest, and create. Don’t let fear stop you achieving your dreams and goals. It’s an incredible profession, you deserve to get and make the most of what it has to offer. Being happy and positive always generates new friendships, opportunities and career path. But most importantly: have fun!

 BANGSTYLE: Can you tell us a bit about Damien Carney London and what inspired you to start it?

Damien Carney: I work with clients of all sizes – corporate companies, large salons, schools, small salons, individual coaching, shows, seminars, shoots, etc. I started DC London, as the world of education is different today than the past. With the Internet all the media outlets have different offerings. I found that clients wanted to hire me and have me go to them in their environment. No travel or hotel costs for the client. Plus they can work education into their busy work lives. I hear so often ‘next year’, ‘next time’….. So I wanted my educational offering to be very practical and inspirational. I can travel anywhere and bring any form of education to any size or client situation. It works for both parties. What my clients like most is the personal aspect. I’m not a huge corporation; there aren’t layers of people to get to me directly. They’re booking me, straight from the horse’s mouth!

BANGSTYLE: Any future goals or plans for your career?

Damien Carney: To continue what I’m doing, wouldn’t change a thing! I absolutely love what I do, and continuing on that path sounds perfect to me!

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