We are thrilled to partner once again with the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) to promote all of the talented artists who are finalists for the 2018 NAHAs (North American Hairstyling Awards), the most prestigious hair and beauty award in the country. In this feature, get to know more about this year's Makeup Artist Of The Year Finalist – Isidro Valencia.
Isidro always creates such interest and unwavering beauty within his images. Using his skills to create more than just a pretty palette, he is literally changing the face of makeup. Taking an alternate view of the makeup world as it is, Isidro hopes to inspire others through his work. Keep reading to know more about this amazing artist and the beauty he is creating...
What is your favorite thing about being a makeup artist?
It’s a way of being able to express myself and having the satisfaction of knowing I made my clients happy. Sometimes it isn't about the money because my favorite part is being able to create art by using my makeup skills and inspiring others through my work. I believe I’ve been successful because I really love and enjoy what I do. All of my artistry comes from my heart!
What was the inspiration behind this collection?
Besides being funny and entertaining, the culture of clowns has been betrayed as evil, creepy, and bad characters. I was inspired by the uniqueness and beauty behind their makeup mask. “Makeup helps to cover up an appearance but it will never cover up what we feel inside." What our hearts feel, our faces will reflect. With my perspective, I wanted to bring out the softness, elegance and romanticism through my colorful makeup techniques in this concept.
What was your biggest challenge in creating this collection?
Every concept is different and challenging especially when you want to bring your vision to reality. I always try to give my best but sometimes it is hard to achieve what we want. Time and communication were the biggest challenges because I have been super busy with my work. But when you have the passion for what you love and your team puts forth the effort on what we are doing the results can be amazing.
What does your collection say about trends or movements within the industry?
This makeup collection has a lot of color, techniques, and ideas. The impact of my images are very innovative. Makeup is all about imagination and creativity. People can recreate the looks in a sublime way and make a new movement in the beauty industry. Never be afraid of who you are and always try new things. Everything can be possible!
If you were to describe this collection in one word, what would it be?
Just one? Enthralling.
Did you have any hero products?
I know this is not a makeup product, but my makeup brushes were very important in this concept. They helped me to execute with the expression of the looks I wanted to create. But besides that my hero products are: concealer, gel eyeliner, mascara, and lipstick. These four products, with the proper application, can simply enhance someone’s beauty.
What were you hoping to convey to your audience with this collection?
Everyone can be creative and talented but may have fear letting us develop those talents. "Fear is for the losers”. I want people to believe in themselves, leaving behind their fears and prejudices. When I was a kid I was afraid of clowns and this is my interpretation of something beautiful behind that dark side on my childhood. We can create something amazing from bad experiences. My bad experiences don't take me down, they make me a stronger person every day and I convert negative things into amazing positive creations.
Tell us a little more about you, as an artist.
As an artist, I’m very humble, creative, fun, and a perfectionist. I can be a little crazy with my personality and attitude, but that's who I am. Besides, that I’m a human being that loves family and appreciates what the world gives us. Life is just precious and inspiring and as an artist, I want to leave an impact on others through my makeup artistry.
How do you Vegas?
Vegas, the never quiet sin city! Besides partying, eating, gambling and having fun, I believe that every trip here inspires me so much and makes me grow as an artist. Vegas is very multicultural and diverse where I can learn so much from the history of the city, the people and the environment surrounding the fun city. Let's explore the art of Vegas!
If you won the lotto (or slot machine) tomorrow, what would you do?
As a kid, I wished for a lot of things, but, as the saying goes, money can’t buy happiness. I would probably end up with nothing because I would be sharing my winnings with my family, friends, and the many others that really need the tremendous help.
Looking for inspiration? Be sure check out all the NAHA finalists here.
