MEET OUR SPEAKERS
Aga Rhodes
Aga Rhodes, Mastering the Art of Makeup
Aga is a Chicago based celebrity makeup artist with clientele in NY, LA & Europe. Her artistic background allows her to treat every face like a clean canvas ready to be awakened with her gentle touch. Aga studied the art of makeup in LA & NY; her education never stops, however, as she is continuously inspired & learning new techniques through her travels, workshops, and connections to best in the industry during NY Fashion Week and editorial photo shoots. Aga prides herself on being a well-rounded artist, transitioning her versatile style from bridal, commercial, editorial, and doesn’t mind sharing her makeup tips to the masses on Refinery 29. Aga’s signature look of classic, timeless beauty has also acquired her a large bridal following. Her work has graced the pages of publications such as Modern Luxury Bride, Chicago Style Weddings, Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, as well as countless online features in Carats & Cake and Vera Wang Wedding Style, just to name a few. Aga’s commercial work can be spotted on billboards all over Chicago, as well as the following magazines: Michigan Ave, Lucky, and Allure. Whether her clients are flawless models, celebrity faces like Merdith Viera, Ally Larter (Heroes), Joan Jett, celebrity chefs Andrew Zimmern of Bizarre Food and Sara Moulton—chef, cookbook author, TV personality—(as well as a few we can’t mention), or everyday brides, clients love working with her outgoing, friendly, yet professional personality. Of course, creating a beautiful canvas on every face she can get her hands on is the ultimate goal for this perfectionist!
Instagram: @makeupbyagarhodes
Alexx Mayo
Alexx has worked with some of the world’s most influential faces including Lizzo, Adut Akech, Mariah Carey, Ming Lee Simmons, JoJo, and Tinashe and has been featured on red carpets, major fashion campaigns, and editorial platforms. Characterized by a uniquely modern and luminous quality, his looks intentionally enhance individuality rather than mask it. Alexx is also known for his role as a beauty expert and educator, sharing his approach with both professionals and beauty enthusiasts around the globe, and now reaching even further with his brand Dream Labs.
Instagram: @iwantalexx
Alphonse Wiebelt
Alphonse Wiebelt, Expert Insights into Makeup Products
From editorial to the runway, Co-Founder of MUSE BEAUTY & Creative Director for ESUM Cosmetics – Alphonse Wiebelt has a rooted history in the “art of makeup.” Working with legends Pat McGrath & Kevyn Aucoin, his career grew to product & education development for leading cosmetic companies. His 25+ years of industry experience & knowledge offer a vast background ideal for makeup artists & beauty entrepreneurs. As the creator of ESUM Cosmetics, his hands-on approach to makeup education is driven by the fine art of professional tools & mediums. As Creative Director, he is currently working on the next phase for ESUM & KETT Cosmetics. His mission in the beauty industry is to build credibility & opportunities for makeup artists in all genres as they build a career doing what they love to do.
Instagram: @alphonse_wiebelt
Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks
Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks, Celebrity Makeup Artist, Founder of Ashunta Sheriff Beauty
Ashunta has spent the last 16 years molding and creating her own signature flawless clean beauty technique, which was groomed by working under master teachers such as Vincent Longo, Laura Mercier and Pat McGrath. The tools she’s learned have been invaluable making her one of today’s top makeup artist constantly sought out to report the hottest trends in beauty as well as give expert beauty tips. Ashunta’s less is more theory when it comes to makeup keeps her clients looking fresh, vibrant, youthful and beautiful. Ashunta is known as the go to artist when you want her siganture “Glow.” However, Ashunta loves drama too and feels makeup is a fun way to express your mood. This fresh take on makeup has brought companies like Dior, Mary Kay, Cover Girl, Nair, Simple Beauty, Milani, Elizabeth Arden, Loreal, Smashbox and Jane Iredale to work closely with Ashunta over the years. These wonderful partnerships and Ashunta’s great media savvy have brought amazingly innovative quality products to her clients, new markets and women worldwide. Ashunta’s client list are among today’s hottest and biggest stars such as Meagan Good, Taraji P. Henson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Elle Varner, Alicia Keys, Jordin Sparks, Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Sanaa Lathan, Tika Sumpter, La LA Anthony, Sharon Stone, Marisa Tomei, Rihanna, Ciara, Hillary Duff, Ashley Simpson, Keri Hilson, Jazmine Sullivan, India Arie and many many more. Ashunta began her career as a male groomer. Grooming some of today’s hottest men from P.Diddy, Usher, Jay Z, Swizz Beatz and she also worked on numerous campaigns for the prestigous Nike Jordan/Jumpman series. Ashunta has mentored several new talents who have grown to have top celebrity clients of their own and this is something she is most proud of. Ashunta is not only passionate about her work, but equally passionate to give back to young artist and espeically women of all walks of life teaching them that it is possible to live out your dreams in whatever you choose to do through hard work, commitment and positive thought. Ashunta has worked in all mediums of makeup from Broadway,Fashion, Editorial, Red Carpet and even special request weddings. Ashunta is amongst the leaders in the “New School” of makeup talents creating timeless beauty and fun new trends with every brush stroke. Ashunta has had editorial press from all of the top fashion and beauty magazines inlcuding Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Elle and Essence to name a few and has appearred on numerous Television shows such as WeTV’s My Fair Wedding, TLC’s Say Yes To The Dress for Mary Kay, Rachel Ray, Lifetime’s Drop Dead Diva, E! Glamour’s 50 Do’s and Don’ts, Fashion TV, Good Day LA, Good Morning America, WPIX and many others.
Awards & Honors
**Ashunta was awarded Elle Beauty Genius of the Year Award
**Sephora Celebrated her Rock Star Chic makeup style
**Glamour celebrated her in their Beauty Stars Anniversary Issue
** AOL BlackVoices Beauties Top Movers and Shakers
Instagram: @ashuntasheriffbeauty
Bethany Townes
Bethany’s fascination with the art of makeup began in 2006 with a small part-time job at a cosmetic counter. Never could she have imagined experiencing such an immediate connection to something as simple as applying mascara or rouging a cheek, or that it could evolve into her life’s passion and current full-time career.
Quickly her part time job became her full-time obsession, and after only a short time working at the counter and freelancing part time throughout city she realized there was nothing else, she would rather be doing. Taking a huge leap of faith in 2010, she made the big move from her established government management career in Baltimore to pursue her newfound purpose in New York City.
Maintaining the same curiosity and excitement that brought her to NYC, she is constantly motivated by the ever-changing trends and needs of the industry. By taking pointers from her time served as an Army medic, Bethany uses her professionalism, selfless service, and calming bedside manner to provide an amazing experience for every client. With a signature style of timeless beauty with touches of elegance and glamour, Bethany has become a highly sought after talent in the industry.
With the constant growth of the industry and the opportunity to share her talent at every corner, she now has her hand in several aspects of the industry including; television, music, commercial advertisement, brand representation, runway fashion, teaching large groups or even one on one lessons, no matter how big or small the job Bethany still says “living your dream truly doesn’t feel like work at all!”
Bethany’s attention to detail and hard work ethic also allow her to consistently work in production with companies like The Makeup Show and The Powder Group since 2007. Her latest clients consist of Viacom, Verizon Wireless, Sony Music Entertainment, Nautica Women, and Cazal Eyewear. Working with Networks like MTV, MTV2, MTVU, BET, VH1, Spike, CBS, and FOX NEWS. Her current work can also be seen on MTV2’s Guy Code, and MTV’s Girl Code.
Instagram: @bethanytownes
Instagram: Danessa Myricks
Danessa Myricks, Pioneering Beauty Artist
As a makeup artist, photographer, and entrepreneur, Danessa Myricks is one of the most influential leaders in the beauty industry and is widely credited for leading groundbreaking product development for some of the most popular brands before launching her own brand, Danessa Myricks Beauty in 2015.
Starting out as a self-taught makeup artist, Myricks learned how to use products in unconventional ways to create extraordinary looks. Pushing beyond industry norms, she began to teach her techniques to artists, quickly defining herself as a leading educator in the beauty space. Myricks was soon appointed to lead product development for some of the most successful launches in history at top brands in the industry. Her corporate journey further revealed what she personally knew – that the world of makeup still felt exclusive to many. So, she decided to reimagine the beauty landscape and launched her own inclusive, eponymous brand. Referred to as the “Willy Wonka of Beauty” by New Beauty magazine, Myricks invents award-winning multi-use products that work in multiple places and on all faces. She continues to push the industry forward with revolutionary approaches to makeup and viral must-have that are beloved worldwide. Creatively combining artistry with product manipulation, she designs and launches some of the most high-performance, innovative products on the market.
With community-building at the forefront, Myricks is rooted in her artistry as her brand expands around the world. As CEO, she runs the business based on a mission to build confidence through beauty and she powers a global community on the foundation of love, creativity, and diversity. But the most rewarding part of her work is receiving inspiring words from people that previously felt underrepresented, unseen or ignored by beauty brands now finally land at a brand made for all, Danessa Myricks Beauty.
Instagram: @danessa_myricks
Dotti
Celebrity makeup artist Dotti is a renowned natural beauty advocate, celebrated for her belief that flawless skin preparation is the true foundation of a radiant complexion. The artist behind some of Hollywood’s most famously luminous, natural looks, Dotti’s clientele includes Alicia Keys, Cate Blanchett, Emma Watson, and Kristen Stewart. Over a decades-long career, Dotti has built her reputation on a simple yet powerful philosophy: great makeup begins with exceptional skincare. As a strong proponent of holistic practices, Dotti incorporates esthetic techniques with intentional choices of high quality, organic products for essential pre-makeup steps.
Instagram: @therealistdotti
Eddie Duyos
Eddie Duyos is a NYC based make-up artist and educator with a degree in Fashion Design skilled in Make-up Artistry for special effects, theater, runway, film, & editorial. With over 25 years of experience working with top beauty brands and vast work in editorial he has developed a keen eye for color composition, and artistic trends. Because of his fluency in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, Eddie has been an Instructional Designer for the U.S., Mexico, Canada & Brazil and is currently the leading Pro Education & Artistry at MAKE UP FOR EVER for North America. Eddie’s vast experience on set for global campaigns has also led given him the opportunity to work on Global Artistry teams for New York Fashion Week, as a Global Artist, lead talent on videos, and key facilitator for recognized Global Artistry brands.
Instagram: @eddieartistry
EJ Jamele
EJ Jamele, Expert Tips for Makeup Enthusiasts
EJ Jamele is the CEO and founder of crowdMGMT, a brand & talent management and full-service productions firm representing an exclusive roster of multi-faceted artists in the beauty and lifestyle industries. As a dynamic production house, crowdMGMT creates compelling content across all media – from targeted social campaigns to major advertising spots, television shows, streaming content, and film projects of every scope and budget. The company’s prestigious client list includes leading publications, global brands, TV networks, fashion houses and celebrities such as VOGUE, Vanity Fair, Essence, L’Officiel, #LEGEND, ABC, VH1, FX, The Kardashians, Ciara, Diddy, Balmain, Versace, L’Oreal, PUMA, Jennifer Hudson, V Magazine and countless others.
EJ’s dedication to the industry extends beyond production and management – he served as a board member and annual state scholarship pageant producer for the Miss America Connecticut chapter, and co-produced the EFFIE Award-winning “Know Your Status” LIFE BEAT org stage concert series, where all attendees submitted their HIV test results as entry to the venue. He serves as an executive contributor to The Makeup Show and regularly speaks and advises for a network of over sixty thousand pro and aspiring beauty industry artists globally.
His commercial and entertainment work has garnered billions of impressions, featured on Good Morning America, VH1, MTV, BET, Billboard Magazine, V Magazine, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Complex Media and many more. As a talent manager to some of the industry’s most sought-after artists, EJ brings his keen eye for talent development and media projects to every endeavor. He fosters a culture of high-level collaboration among crowdMGMT clients and colleagues, facilitating inclusive projects within the crowdMGMT artist roster and network.
EJ states, “I believe that by elevating one another, my clients will maintain both longevity and creative advantage in their respective industries and it’s my job to curate a roster of like-minded elite talent to maintain and elevate that advantage for us all.”
Television audiences may recognize him from appearances on VH1’s “Lala Anthony’s Full Court Life” and “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” highlighting his expertise and clients. He continues to forge forward in all aspects of his career, as he would say, “AVANTI!”
Instagram: @ej_jamele
Emily Clayton
Emily Clayton is a UK born, global freelance makeup artist and content creator, known for her bold work and punk approach to beauty. With over 10 years of international experience, her work spans high-fashion editorials, beauty, celebrity, film, and creative makeup.
Emily has worked with global brands including Valentino, Balenciaga, Bottega, Huda Beauty, and Kayali. Her work can be found in leading publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, and Sorbet magazine.
Renowned for her strong visual identity and technical precision, Emily brings runway inspired artistry and modern editorial techniques to every demonstration.
Instagram: @vanityvenom
Grishan Roof
Grishan Roof is the founder behind the Depot Chopra Method, the industry’s benchmark for professional depotting and kit curation. From her Los Angeles studio, she optimizes the most protected asset in a pro’s career: the kit. Her clients include the industry’s leading artists: Hung Vanngo, Ash K. Holm, Sarah Tanno, Priscilla Ono, Sir John, Fiona Stiles, and more.
As a makeup artist and organization savant, Grishan has become the go-to authority on kit ergonomics and packaging that actually performs on set. Today she partners with brands on kit-optimized formats and PR builds, while teaching her method with clear, rigorous standards that elevate speed, cleanliness, and creative flow.
In 2024, Grishan translated that expertise into products that are reshaping pro kits worldwide. She’s created functional, durable tools designed for real working conditions. Her growing product line is built to help artists shed bulk, work faster, and present with first-class professionalism.
Depot Chopra’s mission is simple: empower artists to operate at a higher level through cutting-edge kit solutions—and set a new standard for the industry. Her goal of transforming the beauty industry from the inside out has made Grishan both a category leader and the quiet force behind how top artists build and use their kits.
Instagram: @depotchopra
Jake Aebly
Jake Aebly, Inspiring Creativity in Makeup
Jake Aebly is a New York based makeup, hair, and sfx artist. Jake currently works as Retail Operations Manager for the New York staple Alcone Company, in addition to freelancing in print, commercial, TV/film, event & fashion. He has worked with major national brands and networks including Verizon, Pepsi, Dove, Disney, CBS and Nickelodeon, and his work has been featured in multiple publications including the Wall Street Journal, Collective Magazine, Lucy Magazine, Vice and Vogue Italia. Due to his years with Alcone and his abundant curiosity about new products and innovations, he is a self proclaimed product junkie and organization freak!
Instagram: @makeupbyjake
James Molloy
James Molloy, Transformative Beauty Techniques
Born in the North of England James, spent his early years sketching and painting. A lover of fashion and beauty, he found himself drawn towards the cultural city of Manchester where he pursued a career in visual merchandising before finding a creative outlet within the M.A.C cosmetics family.
A self-taught makeup artist, James quickly worked his way to the title of Senior Artist for M.A.C U.K., which opened up the world of backstage makeup. Having the opportunity to work alongside the world’s leading designers, stylists and makeup artists helped James to hone his craft and perfect his signature style of beauty.
From the U.K., James was promoted to the Director of Makeup Artistry for M.A.C cosmetics Asia Pacific, a region with diverse and cutting-edge makeup direction. James was a key spokesperson for the brand and also gave insight into product and artistry development.
James has worked with some of the industry’s biggest designers from Stella McCartney and Moschino to Proenzer Schouler and Ellery, as well as featuring in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Numero magazines.
Returning to the UK as Global Makeup Ambassador for Rimmel, James and his partner Alex thought there was a gap in the market for great quality yet affordable makeup brushes and accessories and combined their years of experience to create MYKITCO. This exciting independent brand has already gained a great following from both industry leaders and makeup lovers and is certainly one to watch!
James also continues to fuel his passion for education at his exclusive makeup school & studio in Manchester, allowing him to share his makeup knowledge with artists and step behind the lens to capture their work.
Instagram: @jamesmolloymakeupartist
James Vincent
James Vincent, Insights from a Makeup Industry Icon
Director of Artist Relations and Education
As Director of Education and Artistry for The Makeup Show, The Powder Group and On Makeup Magazine, James is fortunate enough to work with makeup lines and makeup artists at all levels of the industry. Over the years James Vincent’s passion for the art of makeup has included nearly every genre of makeup artistry. Film and theatre, television and celebrity work, editorial and runway work and includes training and product development positions for such companies as MAC, Stila, Armani, YSL and Make Up For Ever. James now focuses his career on working internationally in fashion, film, theater and editorial. His resume includes clients as diverse as designers Ashton Michael, Charlotte Ronson, and Samantha Pleet. James’s work in the music industry spans genres and includes legendary musicians like Lady Gaga, Florence & The Machine, Courtney Love, Joan Jett, and the Foo Fighters. In fashion and film and television James’s resume includes leading ladies like Liv Tyler, Reese Witherspoon and Jane Fonda. He has also been privileged enough to work with Barack Obama. Having collaborated with photographers including Alexander Thompson, Mike Ruiz and David LaChapelle, James’s work has been seen on the cover of Paper and Atomic and in magazines including ID, V, Index, Wonderland, and Surface. He has been featured as a beauty expert on numerous television shows, including NBC’s The Today Show. James has also worked in television as key artist for shows including American Idol and on stage for productions including Roundabout Theatre’s “The Philanthropist.” Nylon magazine, The New York Times, and WWD have named James as a “Makeup Artist to Watch”. James is the owner of Rebels and Outlaws, the current Beauty Editor for On Makeup Magazine and Galore Magazine and contributes to countless blogs and publications.
Instagram: @jvincentmakeup
Julia Dalton-Brush
Julia Dalton-Brush is a New York-based makeup artist and licensed esthetician with over 15 years of experience working across fashion, television, film, and celebrity. A longtime member of IATSE Local 798, her work spans top fashion and athletic brands, athletes, celebrities and on-camera talent. She was the founder of B3 Balm Skincare, a cult-favorite artist-created skincare line trusted by makeup professionals for skin prep and performance. After years behind the chair, Julia returned to school to formally study skin, deepening her expertise in barrier health, ingredients, and corrective care. Today, she bridges makeup artistry and esthetics – teaching artists how to truly understand skin so makeup performs better, lasts longer, and supports long-term skin health.
Instagram: @juliadaltonbrush
Kasey Spickard
Kasey Spickard, aka @thefacebykase, is a New York based makeup artist. Kasey has a 10+ year history in the beauty industry working with global beauty powerhouses L’Oreal, Shiseido, Estee Lauder, and COTY. His clients include designer Jenna Lyons, comedian Heather McMahan, and MTV’s Kamie Crawford to name a few. You can see his work across your TV screens on The Tonight Show, Bravo, NBC’s The Today Show, Good Morning America, and Watch What Happens Live.
He is a regular contributor to media publications Vogue, Glamour, InStyle, Elle, and Allure. You can also see some of his campaign work for brands like Laneige, Maybelline, Aritzia, Google Shopping, and DITA Eyewear.
Kasey has a deep knowledge in the brand and tech space and consults with platforms like Pinterest, Reddit, and PleaseAI as well as works with brands on product development, brand positioning, and strategy.
Instagram: @thefacebykase
Kisha Augustine
Kisha Augustine is a New York City based Makeup Artist and Educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. Her career began on the retail floor and evolved into global leadership as Global Director of Education & Artistry at PAT McGRATH LABS, where she is currently working alongside Pat McGrath backstage for leading fashion houses including Gucci, Versace, Louis Vuitton, Schiaparelli, Saint Laurent, and Loewe.
Kisha has led global education programs, shaped brand narratives, and developed artistry experiences across fashion, editorial, and private clientele. Her work is guided by intention, storytelling, and a belief that beauty is both deeply personal and constantly evolving.
Instagram: @kishaaugustine
Lijha Stewart
Lijha Stewart, Exploring the Art of Makeup
Lijha Stewart is a Makeup Artist and Creative Director with 20 Years of beauty industry experience. She is known globally for her detailed eye and creative approach to makeup artistry, as well as her on camera presence and magnetic personality. Working in Beauty, Fashion and Advertising Lijha creates iconic imagery and video that embody the essence of a brand.
She loves inspiring and educating all levels of artists. She has worked as an artist and trainer at M.A.C. Cosmetics, internationally as Director of Artistry and Education at MAKE UP FOR EVER and currently is Creative Director at Danessa Myricks Beauty. In addition to creating, writing, and facilitating education programs for internal and external makeup artists, she worked as brand ambassador and media expert for on-camera content.
Lijha works with beauty brands like Sephora Collection, Givenchy, It Cosmetics and Loreal Paris, specializing in supreme on set artistry for beauty brands, global education, digital content creation, and branding through makeup artistry and storytelling.
Instagram: @lijhajade
Linh Nguyen
Linh Nguyen brings positive energy, creative skills, solid work ethics, and a contagious sense of humor to any project. Trained in the English way of cutting and French hair dressing, Linh’s expertise and speed make him ideal for television, editorial, and catalog work. From Harper’s Bazaar to VOGUE, Linh has produced outstanding results for Condé Nast, Hearst and other magazine publishers. In television, he’s worked for Disney, Lifetime (Project Runway, Project Runway All Stars and Project Runway Junior), America’s Next Top Model & The Fashion Show, and TLC (Love Lust or Run). To round our his repertoire, Linh has a decade of profitably managing people for PR & Partners Salons as a Creative Director. His unique perspective and love for the art can be seen in all his work helping to enhance the quality of any project, represent any product or brand, and inspire any team.
Instagram: @linhhair
Olga Solovey
Olga Solovey – Makeup Artist & Educator
Olga Solovey is a NYC-based makeup artist with over 13 years of experience working across beauty, fashion, and TV/film. Her work includes collaborations with leading beauty brands such as Revlon, L’Oréal, Danessa Myricks Beauty, KISS, Color Street, Conair, TULA, and Tiffany & Co. She has worked multiple VMAs, providing makeup for performers including the dancers for Katy Perry and BLACKPINK, and has created looks for designers like Marissa Wilson, Bach Mai, Marco Marco, Cucculelli Shaheen, Rosario Dawson, Selkie, and Boohoo x Kourtney Kardashian.
For over five years, Olga has been the trusted makeup assistant to Danessa Myricks, managing and curating her makeup kit for editorial, red carpet, and campaign work—including Vogue with Kat Graham, Rolling Stone Magazine, and Mindy Kaling’s appearances on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Good Morning America, and The View.
Olga is especially known for her exceptional skills in makeup kit building and organization. With a sharp eye for efficiency and detail, she customizes and packs kits based on the specific needs of each job—whether it’s for TV/film work, a fashion campaign, or a private client. Her strategic, space-saving approach ensures that every product serves a purpose, helping artists stay prepared, efficient, and creative in any setting.
Instagram: @iamolga
Rokael Lizama
Rokael is a top celebrity makeup artist working with clients such as Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, Demi Lovato, Ariana Grande, Nicole Scherzinger and Cassie.
He has worked on campaigns for beauty brands such as Anastasia, KKW, Urban Decay, Dose of Colors, and Kylie Cosmetics. Through his experience working with these brands, he’s developed the skills necessary to build and curate his own beauty brand. Rokael is proud to say that he is truly involved in every part of his business including product development, marketing campaigns, branding, and creative direction.
Since 2017, Rokael has been developing and testing his new line of lashes on his A-list clients and now he is extremely excited to finally share his vision with the world. Originally developed for his clients, he is extremely excited to finally share his unique patent-pending lash designs with the world.
Instagram: @rokaelbeauty
Roshar
Roshar, Innovative Perspectives on Makeup Artistry
Roshar is an international makeup artist based in Los Angeles, with work featured in VOGUE, Harpers BAZAAR, ELLE, GLAMOUR, Marie Claire among many other publications.
Originally from a small Texas town, Roshar left home at 15, and did makeup in trade for rent. He soon developed the skill and unconventional style, that has lead him to where he is today.
Since early childhood Roshar had a fascination with painting and fashion. Immersed in the underground club scene of the late 80s and early 90s, Roshar explored the world of role play and costumes, that further complimented his way of looking at things.
As a platform artist, Roshar has given makeup presentations not only in the US but also in Switzerland, Indonesia, Cairo, Rome, Japan, India, Canada, Singapore, Taiwan, and Australia just to name a few.
Known for his work with color and transformation, Roshar’s work has become easily recognizable. Some of his clients include CoverGirl, MAKE UP FOR EVER, NYX Cosmetics, L’Oréal, Wella, and Paul Mitchell.
Instagram: @rosharofficial
SandyNicha
SandyNicha, originally from Thailand, discovered her love for makeup after moving to New York City. Specializing in beauty and fashion editorial work, she draws inspiration from the city’s fashion and arts scene. Her work has been featured in Vogue US, Vogue Italia, Vogue China, Vogue Hong Kong, Glamour Brazil, Bazaar Thailand, Numero Netherlands, and Elle Portugal, among others. Her journey inspires aspiring makeup artists as she continues to redefine beauty standards with her creativity.
Instagram: @sandynichamakeup
Shelly Taggar
Shelly Tagger, Fashion Photography
Shelly began her career as a fashion photographer back in Israel. After moving to the United States to complete her BA in Fine Arts, she resumed work in the fashion industry as a studio manager then later an event producer. By 2016, this career change eventually led her to the role of Director of Creative Services at Metropolitan Events & Production, a company that owns and operates its own venue in Cheslea, New York and produces over 250 events annually. 16 years ago, Shelly was asked to produce and host The Makeup Show, which, by its first year, was sold out in Miami, LA and NYC. In 2010, Shelly & The Metropolitan Pavilion bought 100% shares in the show, and now own it completely. As the show owner and the VP of Creative Services & Sales for Metropolitan Events and Production, Shelly produces Makeup Show events all over the country, bringing it to cities including Chicago, Orlando, Dallas, Nashville, and Atlanta. In her time with the company, she has more than doubled its regular attendance, expanded it internationally, and has created a community which has permeated the beauty industry and provided education and support to thousands of makeup artists, brand owners, and creatives. In 2015, Shelly designed a book celebrating 10 years of The Makeup Show and its influence. In 2023 & 2024 she brought the show to two new markets and expanded The Makeup Show iArtist forum to serve the beauty communities in Nashville and Atlanta. Shelly has produced over 60 makeup shows around the globe and is preparing to celebrate the 20-year anniversary of the show in 2025.
Suki Tsujimoto
Suki (Etsuko) Tsujimoto is a New York-based make-up artist with a background in fashion styling. Drawing significant influence from her dual upbringing in New York and Japan, Suki was seldom found without a paintbrush in hand. By age 15, she was already taking courses at FIT and soon discovered fashion as the perfect outlet for her love of fine arts, eventually earning a degree in fashion styling.
After graduating from FIT, Suki launched her career as a stylist. This led to additional work during Fashion Week managing models and dressing for numerous big names, including Carolina Herrera, Betsey Johnson, John Bartlett, DKNY, and many others. Although Suki had a natural talent for styling, she frequently found herself also doing models’ make-up during photo shoots and soon developed a passion for make-up artistry. During a brief career hiatus to start a family with her husband (well-known tattoo artist Keith “BangBang” McCurdy) Suki found time to attend the Make-Up Designory in SoHo and afterwards transitioned to a full-fledged career in make-up, with a focus on beauty and character make-up, hair styling, and special effects.
Suki currently works as a freelance make-up artist in NYC, with work featured in film, television, print and press events. She is able to apply full face and body prosthetics, as well as designing and building them. She has also developed a talent of body painting and creating temporary tattoos. When she isn’t working and honing her craft, you can find Suki spending time with her beautiful family, or sculpting in her home studio.
Instagram: @sukitsuji
Uzo
Uzo, Insights from a Leading Makeup Professional
Uzo, Co-Founder and Creative Director of UZO, is a renowned Global Artistry Director, Makeup Artist, and Celebrity Makeup Artist with 30 years of experience in the beauty industry. She graduated with a dual degree in Medicine and Surgery before starting her career with prestigious cosmetic brands like NARS, Bobbi Brown, and YSL Beauty.
From developing and training younger makeup artists, consulting on product development projects, to leading fashion shows and becoming an in-demand beauty authority featured in numerous US and international beauty, fashion and digital publications including Vogue, Elle, InStyle, Vanity Fair, W Magazine and The Zoe Report,
Uzo’s work features in editorials and campaigns (Vogue, V Magazine, Marie Claire) and has also graced the red carpet (Academy Awards, Golden Globes Awards, Emmy Awards, Grammys Awards) and Fashion Week (Rodarte, Philip Lim, Julien Macdonald, etc). Her high-profile clientele includes Naomi Campbell, Milla Jovovich, Beverly Johnson, Grace Jones, Kirsten Dunst, Tessa Thompson, Aurora James, Yara Shahidi, Francesca Eastwood, Pom Klementieff, etc. She has also worked with celebrated photographers Patrick Demarchelier, Nan Goldin and Annie Liebovitz.
She currently resides in Los Angeles. Instagram: @u.z.o
Zoë Elizabeth
Zoë Elizabeth is an iArtist alum and British born makeup artist who built one of Mexico’s top destination bridal teams after training in New York. With over a thousand weddings completed and a 20+ person team serving brides throughout the Riviera Maya, Zoë is known for her refined, natural soft glam and deep expertise in complexion work. She has worked at London and New York Fashion Week, and her artistry has been featured in Vogue, Condé Nast Traveler, and Brides Magazine. Zoë brings a modern, client and energy first philosophy to education, helping artists create polished, current beauty for diverse clients in any setting.
Instagram: @zoeelizabethmakeup