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LIVE INTERVIEW: LIVE PAINTING WITH VERA IN TORONTO!

Check out Vera Malitskaya, one of the lastest live painters to join the Art World Expo Toronto event on October 2! Vera will be live painting on site and has invited guests to participte in the process of creating a piece! Her piece will be auctioned off at the end of the evening with 50% of the funds going directly to the artist and the other 50% to Make and Break Arts Foundation. MABAF supports Art World Expo’s production costs as well as varied initiatives including Kids Summer Art Programs in North Vancouver, Monstars and Beasts Haunted House and arts programming through operational costs.

For more information about Vera’w work, please visit: http://www.veramalitskaya.com/

The Ashley Twist: An Interview with M.U.A. Ashley Vieira

by Alyssa Laube

For Ashley Vieira, working as a make up artist is all about instilling confidence in others. As a teenager, she eagerly anticipated any opportunity she had to get dolled up, whether it was for a bridal party or prom. Every time she saw herself in the artist’s chair, her “confidence levels skyrocketed.” That feeling is what inspired her to practice make up professionally. “If I was able to feel that strongly about myself, I knew I wanted to make others feel the same way. I’m happy to say that I have accomplished that with some of my clients,” she explained.

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However, those clients aren’t all looking to be beautified. Vieira, who runs Smash Beauty & SPFX, also works extensively with special effects. Some of her most fascinating creations are gruesome and otherworldly, which she admits spawn from her obsession with prosthetic wounds.

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“I love doing various things with prosthetics. However, I think my favourite thing to create currently is making small prosthetic wounds and putting them on little kids. Now hear me out, that sounds disturbing, but I actually get hired to do this at large events,” she laughed. “Both the kids and parents love how twisted it is, because who the heck expects to see a booth at a family event doing this? And yes, I layer on that blood. I swear, it’s all in good fun,” she promised. “Nothing Dexter inspired.”

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Sure, there’s nothing menacing about Ashley’s morbid interests, but that doesn’t mean that it stops at prosthetic wounds. She also has a soft spot for skeletons, or more specifically, Dia de los Muertos Sugarskulls (Day of the Dead). Although she’s reluctant to admit it, Dia de los Muertos always ends up sneaking into her style in one way or another. Vieira says that it’s the “crazy amount of details” that she found so exciting, saying, “I love colours, patterns, dots, and skeletons. It just made sense to incorporate that into my art. I keep thinking that I will eventually get bored with it but it keeps popping up in my work and my details only get more intricate!”

The combination of her skill as a make up and special effects artist is what allows Ashley to leave her mark in the beauty world. Seeing things from a “contrasting perspective” is what makes her special. “My knowledge from one helps me understand what I’m lacking in another. That’s what helps me turn my first concept into something much larger, ending with a big bang,” she explained.

At this year’s Art World Expo in Toronto, she’ll be showcasing these talents in the body painting competition. Her plan is to create a hybrid version of The Little Mermaid, crossing Disney’s and Hans Christian Andersen’s versions of the iconic figure. And of course, there has to be “an Ashley twist somewhere in there.”

It seems that the “Ashley twist” is putting a creepy spin on cute figures, which certainly makes make up artistry more interesting. Of course, Vieira feels the same way. “One day I can be making someone extremely beautiful, the next day I can be ‘killing’ that very same person/character and drenching them in blood,” she said. “At the end of the week, it all evens out. Never a dull moment!”

See Ashley exhibit at this year’s Art World Expo or visit her website to learn more about her services!

Your Favorite Artist-Robert Mulolo interviewed by Monika Blichar

I AM YOUR FAVORITE AUTHOR Robert Mulolo talks with Monika Blichar about his work, his inspiration and even Fresh Prince of Belair!

The Art of Hooping: An Interview with Colleen Costello of Hoop You

An Art World Expo Artist Spotlight

By Alyssa Laube

The art form known as “hooping” has a diverse and long-standing history. Although it originated in Egypt as early as the tenth century, it swept many nations throughout the world. In England, Switzerland, and America, it was used for various purposes; the Native Americans began hoop dancing as a medium for storytelling, using the hoop as a symbol for the eternal cycle of life. In the twentieth century, the hoop was commercialized. They were sold in stores as toys for children, first in Australia, and then more widely in America, but it wasn’t until the nineties that modern hooping was born. At live shows, bands started throwing them into the audience for fans to dance with, and the trend caught on. It wasn’t long until they were being used at huge festivals such as Burning Man, and the subculture of hoopers began to grow. Today, it’s thought of as an official dance medium; it’s a new way to have fun and burn calories, similar to zumba and jazzercise (which is still painful to say out loud). There was even a hoop dancer on Ellen the other day. How much bigger can the movement get?

Of course, the Art World Expo isn’t one to miss an opportunity, so dancers from Hoop You will be performing at this year’s event. The company’s founder, Colleen Costello, started hooping over five years ago, and was shocked at how much she loved it.

“It completely changed the way I saw myself,” said Colleen. “It created a space for me to jump around and flail like a kid again; to dance just because I felt like it to music that I love. The hoop provides immediate feedback that you’re doing it right (i.e.: it stays up) and it’s easy to forget about how you look while doing it, which as an adult woman, doesn’t happen too often.” Her past experience also encouraged her to pursue hooping. “Having worked as a musician for many years, the stage doesn’t scare me. Music is very integral to dance, so it seemed like a natural leap to make,” she explained.

Dispatch Talent – Fireguy & his Crew

That leap was made with the creation of Hoop You, which covers everything from fire dancing (described by Colleen as having “a literal flare”) to choreographed group hoops. They also do solo shows, and “Fun Zones” or workshops, which encourage public participation in the dances. At the Art World Expo, they will be featuring a hoop troupe hoop (say that five times fast!) with a glow performance, and possibly outdoor fire dancing.

“I met Monika (the founder) in Vancouver about the same time I picked up a hula hoop. I was new to the city and found her enthusiasm for the arts – especially women in the arts – very inspiring at a time when I needed it. Her dedication to art as her business and the vigour with which she pursues it has continued to encourage everyone around her to work for themselves in the careers they are passionate about. The Art Expo in Vancouver is a great event, so when I heard she was bringing to Toronto, I jumped at the opportunity to work with her again!”

The Art World Expo and everyone at MAB Ventures Inc. is equally as excited to work with Hoop You. They stick out in the industry for their genuine intent; hooping is more than just a money making ploy for Colleen and her employees.

“We love what we do and it shows,” she confirmed. “I want to be spreading joy in living through dancing. I am a big believer in communication and try to treat the people I hire with the same respect the client gets. Because I work to fit myself into a competitive market while still retaining a community feel, I aspire to act from trust rather than competition. It sometimes backfires, but at the end of the day, it means I feel good about my goals and intentions. We at Hoop You value longevity over the quick sell.”

To see Hoop You’s group hoops, glow performances, and fire dancing, attend Toronto’s Art World Expo or visit one of their hoop dance websites to set up your own event!

Bringing Back Bubblegum Pop: An Interview with Solo Artist Indigo

By Alyssa Laube

“The genre of pop has always been natural to me,” said musician Indigo, who will be performing at the Art World Expo in Toronto’s Hard Rock Cafe this year. “This isn’t a surprise considering I grew up in the 90’s and 2000’s when pop, R&B and hip-hop were dominating the music world.” Certainly, the powerhouse songstresses of that time can be heard in her songs, ranging from the lively hooks of Madonna and the Spice Girls to the soulful crooning of Christina Aguilera and Alicia Keys. As a matter of fact, Indigo seems to emulate the charm of bubblegum pop’s poster child, Britney Spears. It’s the upbeat sound combined with the darling image that evokes images of America’s (ex) sweetheart, but although the parallel can be made, Indigo brings something fresh to the table. Like Britney, she’s a solo act who describes herself as “flexible” when it comes to who she works with, but all-in-all, she’s more involved, unprocessed, and authentic. Basically, every Indigo original starts and ends with her. Along the way, fellow musicians and producers may lend a helping hand, but at the end of the day, it all comes back to Indigo.

Although she’s a true indie artist, her live shows (such as the one that will be taking place at the Hard Rock) are played with a three-piece backing band. James Karfilis, “a good friend and an incredible artist with many creative projects on-the-go,” plays guitar, sings backup, and helps co-write. Ben Müller, the bassist, and Bradley Connor, the drummer, joined Indigo on stage together with their talent, musicianship, and admirable stage presence at hand. For Indigo, who “looks for heart, commitment, and drive in people,” this was exactly what she needed. The trio gives her shows a full sound and a high, positive energy. It’s the group’s expertise and friendly dynamic that promises a good night out of any Indigo performance, which usually consists of both originals and cover songs.

“Throw back tunes are a great way to connect with the audience because it’s speeds up the process of getting them comfortable with the band,” said Indigo, about her choice of covers. “It hits a nerve that makes them want to dance or sing along. For a performer, that’s the dream!”

Rather, that’s one of the dreams. Another one of Indigo’s is to publish an EP, but it will soon become a reality. The five-song record, entitled Child, is being released track-by-track (and two are available on iTunes already), but will be “re-released as a collection eventually”.

“All five tracks follow a chronological story, but due to money and time, I’ve had to spread them out over the years. I’m learning as I go and it’s taking me longer than expected, but in the end, I’m more interested in quality over quantity. I have another four to five song EP in mind for the future, once Child is completed.”

When it comes to inspiration for the albums, Indigo takes from the little things in life. “Honing on on every single detail” and taking notes on the interesting parts of overheard conversations has inspired many songs for the artist, but she was also heavily influenced by her childhood.

“My parents listened to a lot of world music when I was a wee one,” she recollected. “My dad played the Arabic tabla and the didgeridoo, and my mom was a professional belly-dancer. She took a couple of qanun lessons and they always had tambourines hanging on the walls. Growing up, I didn’t know how unique my childhood really was, but now, I see how lucky I was to be introduced to such exotic sounds and visuals so early on. I used a didgeridoo in the first four bars of ‘Mercury Retrograde’, not only because I think it sounds cool and works with the song, but also as a shout out to my dad. As an artist, I naturally gravitate towards those familiar sounds and I intend on incorporating them into my work in the future. It keeps me grounded and feels like home.”

Hopefully, these sounds will be heard on the upcoming releases. The trademark of most pop songs is that they’re somewhat formulaic, so the addition of an uncommon rhythm or instrument would undoubtedly give Indigo the upper hand. For now, she can use her tender (but powerful) vocals and admirable songwriting chops to gather crowds, including the show at the Hard Rock.

“The venue is a huge draw for people – it’s a household name that’s reliable. About two years ago, I was watching other artists play on that very stage and thought to myself, ‘It must feel great to be up there,’” she reminisced. “Now, it’s my turn.”

See Indigo play at the Hard Rock at this year’s Art World Expo in Toronto, and

Visit her website to listen and learn more about Indigo!

Photo credit: Madelayne Hajek

Interview: Author Robert Mulolo Why Me? and Theatre

by Alyssa Laube

For most writers, getting a book published is the end-all, be-all. It’s a milestone to work towards for years; not only does the author have to write and revise the story, but they also have to find a publisher and discuss all of the details that come with distributing a book. However, for Robert Mulolo, the aspirations didn’t stop there. His first novel to be released in 2012, Why Me?, told the tale of a young woman’s struggle to thrive in the face of adversity.

“The basis of the story, when I first decided to write it, was that I wanted to display a character who had an uphill battle from the get go,” said Robert, about the inspiration behind his novel. “I wrote about Renee and created that character. She never knew her father. Her mother, running from taking responsibility for her actions, would blame her for the bad misfortune she’s experienced in her life, and her half-sister would be absent from her life unless there was a need to have her around. The story covers the span of 10 years and shows Renee trying to better her life, and she encounters three men during that time. The story touches on family, betrayal, abuse and the idea of love.”

After the publication of Why Me?, Robert felt that he had to make “a big announcement” with the book, and do more than simply release it to his audience. It was then that he felt inclined to host book readings and signings, but because the narrator was a woman, he decided that they would not do the character justice. It was this complication that eventually led to his next monumental success.

“I wrote the book in the voice of a woman…so I decided to hire a performer to [read it] out. After seeing one part of my book being acted out, I had the idea for the play. It’s not yet ready as more funds are required, but by the end of the year, it will either be on stage or we will have a date for it.”

With luck, the play will add more depth and excitement to an already well-written novel. The dramatics and emotivity of theatre has enhanced story lines countless times before; Les Misérables, Crime and Punishment, and The Grapes of Wrath are just a few on the list, and act as great inspirations for the developing adaptation of Why Me?. The play may not have a set date yet, but stay tuned to Robert’s Facebook for updates (such as his next novel, Just Chance It) and purchase your own copy of Why Me? at these three locations to prepare for Robert’s big release.

“Storytelling is all about showing a new reality to others, and that’s what you must do as a writer. Give your reader an opportunity to get out of the crappy reality they know and allow them to be the witness to an amazing story,” said Robert, and Why Me? should be a great escape.

Great Quote-Bob Marley

Be inspired with this wall quote that will remind you every day to pursue your dreams and passion. At Art World Expo, we love to promote businesses and artists who are doing just that with their lives. Check out Wall Sticker Shop for some great wall stickers, thousands to choose from, that will keep you motivated and inspired! Have a look at their site http://www.wallstickersshop.co.uk/ for some fab finds that will bring some life to your home!

Call for Submissions!

We are looking for amazing artists, designers, and body painters to join our 2015/2016 roster of talent!

Are you an artist who works outside the box?

Do you design insane fashion or accessories?

Is your canvas a human body? WE WANT YOU!

Applications are now being accepted for the 2015/2016 Toronto and Vancouver Art World Expo! Visit: https://theartworldexpo.com/exhibitor-information/ for more inforamtion!

The “Mom-Entrepreneurs” – An Interview with Sabrina Widner, Coastal Storm Gallery

The “Mom-Entrepreneurs”

An Interview with Sabrina Widner, Co-owner of Coastal Storm Gallery

By Alyssa Laube

About: Self-proclaimed “mom-entrepreneurs” Sabrina Widner lives in Sooke with her children and husband, where she spends most of her time taking care of loved ones and running Coastal Storm Gallery with her twin sister, Sam! Sabrina and Sam focus on exhibiting local artisans and feature a wide selection of beautiful aboriginal artwork. This year, they designed “Coastal Imagination Masks” which were sold at several of Make and Break Arts Foundation’s fundraisers all over the Lower Mainland and supported arts based projects like Art World Expo and summer art camps for children and youth.

How and when did you decide that you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

After spending almost eight years working in downtown Victoria, picking kids up from daycare, and feeling tired and under-appreciated at work, it was time for a change! I invested in a few properties (that currently pay my bills) so that I could spend my days walking my dog, volunteering in my local community, and actively participating in raising my own children. However, after a while of being a stay-at-home mom, it becomes a little tedious. So, my journey as a business owner began.

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Can you tell the story of how you came up with the idea for Coastal Storm Gallery?

I have a beautiful aboriginal art collection, and friends and family started to ask me why I wasn’t buying and selling pieces online yet, so I did in 2009! However, not everything went perfectly the first time. My original business partner did not share the same vision as me. We came up with an online aboriginal gallery, and did a few trade shows and mall kiosks, but things fizzled out. Now, my sister and I are running Coastal Storm Gallery together, and things have been awesome ever since!

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Sam, what lead you to becoming Sabrina’s business partner with the gallery?

Since graduating from college in 2001, I have been in various customer service roles which I absolutely love. I’ve managed retail stores, implemented customer service within a private company, and since 2008, I have been working for the local Health Authority. Initially, I was with Mental Health & Substance Use, which is an eye-opening program that allowed me to serve a population that deserves great customer service and complete respect. Currently, I am working within Public Health and now serve an even broader range of people.

Considering how young I am, you will be surprised to know that my husband and I have been married for five years now and have been together officially for eighteen years! We were pregnant within days after our wedding; having my Son in 2009 was the greatest experience of my life and every day I love him more and more.

With a busy career, a husband, and a son, finding time to spend with my sister was becoming a challenge. When she asked if I’d like to become involved with her business, initially I was hesitant and wondered where I would find the time, but I have to say it has been a great experience! We chat all the time, our children get to spend tons of time together “while their mommies work”, and I love it!

Why are you drawn to aboriginal artwork?

I think it’s because of the heritage! Even young aboriginal artists begin with a wealth of information and usually have family members that have mentored them since youth. Aboriginals of the first people of Canada. Their history dates back hundreds of years, many tribes have continued to pass information on through the generations, and I find amazing value in that. For every piece, there’s a story. Each animal has a different meaning, they have their own mythical creatures, the artist themselves have stories to share, and every family has a history. For example, I carry Nancy Dawson’s jewellery. She was taught how to carve and weave by her elders and she has passed that skill down by mentoring all of her sister’s children. They all currently hand carve silver jewelry. Her family crest is the wolf, and when her family holds a potluck, they give handmade items all engraved with wolf symbols to signify the family’s wealth.

You helped to create and sell “Coastal Imagination Masks” with Make & Break Arts Foundation this year. Can you tell us more about the masks and how you got involved with MAB?

One day, while sitting by the poolside at Monika’s house, we started taking about galleries and how much we both love art. I mentioned that I was lucky if the kids would let me have five minutes in a gallery without bribing them with a treat, and how I wished that there was something on-site that would work for the whole family. It would have to be desirable to a child, high-quality, and of course, fitting to be sold in a gallery setting. That’s what inspired me to create a line of children’s masks! I’m not great behind a sewing machine, but my best-friend and twin, Sam, sure is!

Together, Sam and I designed a West Coast animal-themed line of felt masks. We both have boys and know for a fact that dress-up items are extremely limited for them; it’s either a profession or a super hero, and none of it is made locally. We set out to fix that! All of our masks are machine-stitched, machine-washable, and extremely durable. We tested our product at a local craft fair and school fundraiser and got some amazing feedback!

I know that Monika works hard for her charity and I thought that we could both benefit by working together, so I sent her some product information and she ran with it! We did a custom order for her Halloween fundraiser of skulls and pumpkins, and created Ruldoph masks which she used to fundraise over the Christmas holidays. She has also included our masks in some online promotions as a part of her fairytale theme. Our hope is to continue to compliment her fundraising with seasonal masks.

There’s a list of “symbols” on your website. Why have you listed these, and what culture are they from? Where can they been seen in the gallery?

I decided to update my website and gear it towards local artisans. The website is still in transition, which is one of the reasons why the symbol page is still there. When the website was only aboriginal, the symbols page was there as reference.

What inspired you to start supporting local artisans?

Sabrina: During the last few years, I have become very active in my community and met so many amazing, talented people. I believe that businesses work because all members benefit; you’re only as successful as those around you! So, my sister and I have approached artisans we know in hopes of promoting their work.

Sam: Sabrina’s new focus on supporting local artists is a great move for her. I currently work with a lovely woman who creates beautiful one-of-a-kind jewelry with her sister under Gin-Nel Jewels. Gina is a mother of eight and needed a creative outlet. Making jewellery was it for her, and working with her sister is the bonus! There’s just something about sisters working together.

I went to a craft show to introduce Sabrina to Gina & they hit if off! A few days after that, I asked Gina if she could make earrings out of pennies (which I have always wanted and can finally do now that the penny is no longer used). She agreed and we started to talk about other opportunities. Gina’s products will start to be available on our website soon and we will be showcasing her creations at Art World Expo in Vancouver and Toronto!

What is it like to run a business with your twin?

The best part of it all is being able to work with my sister and best friend. When I have an idea in the middle of the night, a problem during the day, or too busy of a schedule to get everything done alone, I just call her! We can count on each other to support whatever the other person needs. For us, equal work means equal partnership. I love her, she loves me, and now we can spend time together doing what we both love!

Sabrina, you’re a self-proclaimed “mom-entrepeneur”. Why have you given yourself this title?

Part of why I describe myself as a “mom-entrepreneur” is that I’m doing something I truly enjoy while being able to sustain all of my family obligations first!

Visit http://www.coastalstormgallery.com/

Hopefully, you stopped by the Coastal Storm Gallery booth at Art World Expo this year! Sabrina and Sam will also be at Art World Expo Toronto in October!

Finding Passion Through Peril – An Interview with Makeup Artist Neetu Sahota

About: Vancouver is home to the makeup industry’s modern-day Renaissance woman, Neetu Sahota. Not only does Neetu work as a makeup artist, teacher, and journalist (along with her position as an image specialist) but she also has an inspirational story to share about how she got there. After recovering from a stroke and graduating Blanche Macdonald, Neetu set out to pursue her passion in makeup artistry and never looked back. She’ll be taking part in the body painting competition this year, and will be working with the Expo’s “fairytale” theme.

How would you describe your style as a makeup artist?

My style is really about enhancing beauty; everyone is beautiful and it’s my job to show them just how beautiful they can be. I know that I have done my job right when I have a client who is in awe of how amazing they look. I can truly see how such a small act transforms them, not just from the outside, but the inside too!

What made you want to pursue a career in makeup artistry?

I originally intended to be a lawyer and was studying criminology at SFU up until 2006, which is when my life changed. At the age of nineteen, I suffered a full stroke to my left side. It was caused by an arteriovenous malformation in my brain, a rare condition which occurs in only 1% of the population. Due to its rarity, the only treatment option is brain surgery. If left untreated, symptoms can worsen and lead to paralysis and/or death. After the surgery, I was told that I would never go back to work or school, but I wanted to be normal again more than anything. With age and determination on my side, I was able to fully recover from the physical defects of the stroke after one year. I slowly returned to work and tried to return to school but my cognitive abilities were no longer as strong as they had been. I emerged myself into work, taking on a position of store manager and assistant manager, but despite these successes I found myself lost and unsure of what I was trying to achieve. I eventually started to see a therapist who always admired my makeup, and one day, she asked me why I never considered being a makeup artist. I had never thought of it, and with that glimmer of hope, I went to apply at Blanche MacDonald for the makeup program. Two days later, one of the admission directors called me to tell me that I had been approved and could start class next week, and I agreed! I was always meant to have a career in makeup, I just had to take the long and hard road to get there.

What do you focus on most in your makeup?

Skin! I will spend 80% of my time with any client on their skin. I’ve always believed that beautiful skin creates beautiful makeup, and that when skin is immaculate, everything else will look beautiful and radiant. It’s one of the hardest things to master, and understanding how to make very dry skin look as smooth as a baby’s bum isn’t something that can be taught in a book. It has to be learned from experience. Because it is difficult to make skin look flawless, many people will turn to Photoshop, but my job as a makeup artist is to create a flawless canvas on its own. Essentially, a makeup artist’s job will become insignificant if photographers need to retouch entire images to correct skin.

What are your favourite techniques, colours, products, and trends?

Some of my must-have kit products at the moment are: Clarins Beauty Flash Balm, Face Atelier Pro Foundation, NARS Orgasm Blush (the most amazing blush colour for all lighter skin tones and NARS Super Orgasm for darker skin tones), and MAC Blacktrax Gel liner.

What’s your motto as a makeup artist?

Nothing is a mistake, everything is always intentional.

What’s your number one beauty tip?

Use SPF every day, regardless of if the sun is out or not. This is the best way to prevent dark spots, aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer. The number one request I have from clients is to give them advice for their dark spots and wrinkles once they have occurred, but prevention is always easier than protection.

You’re more than just an artist; you’re also a teacher! How has teaching make-up at Surrey College changed you as an artist?

While working at NARS, I would conduct monthly seminars and masterclasses, sharing backstage makeup techniques and tips with clients. I realized then that I had a passion for sharing my makeup knowledge with others. Teaching is such a fulfilling experience, and I didn’t want to hold back any information from my students, because they became a representation of me. I always tried to give my students a wide variety of knowledge which I had uncovered throughout my experiences in the industry, instead of limiting their learning solely to the curriculum.

How has your job with NARS impacted you, and what are your favourite NARS products?

Oh, there are so many NARS products I love! My makeup kit is full of lots of NARS but my absolute favourites have to be Nico, Sex Appeal, and Zen blush. I always make sure I have one of each on-hand at all times.

Francois Nars once said, “Why so serious? It is only makeup,” which I think is a perfect quote to explain makeup. It isn’t like cutting hair or performing a surgery; you can always correct it by wiping it off and starting again. I tell this to all of my students and myself: you cannot make mistakes in makeup. Think of it as a learning process, an opportunity to make a correction. If you realize that you aren’t pleased with something, you can wipe it away and make the necessary changes. Working at NARS gave me this perspective and developed my passion for skin and layering products.

As if you didn’t already have enough jobs, you write beauty articles for Jugni Style. What can readers expect from your articles, and what has that job done for you artistically?

I just got married a month ago, so I did have to take a break from my beauty articles, but readers can typically expect product reviews, makeup & hair trends, and how-to’s for celebrity makeup looks. We are hoping to have some how-to videos eventually which would aid readers in creating specific looks.

Finally, how has your work as an image specialist (with Studio Cloud 30) changed your artistry?

Working with Studio Cloud 30 has enabled me to take my artistry to the next level by working with some talented artists in the music industry. Warren Dean Flandez, owner and previous competitor in Cover Me Canada, saw the talent in me and brought me onto his team, which has allowed me to make further connections in the music and fashion industry.

Some of your inspirations include Alexander McQueen, Guy Bourdin, Francois Nars and Alex Box. What about these people inspires you? Are there any particular looks of theirs that you adore?

What I love about these artists is that all of them are creative savants or rule-breakers in their industry. They did not care what others may have thought of them or their work. They just did what inspired them. Each of them changed the industry in their own way regardless of being recognized for their talents. For example, Alexander McQueen introduced the world to theatrical fashion shows, and Guy Bourdin started provocative fashion photography. I have the books for each of these artists but my favourite by far is Francois Nars’ 15X15. It fills me with inspiration every time I go through it.

How does your preference in hair styles differ from your taste in makeup looks?

While taking my Global Artistry Diploma at Blanche MacDonald, I was able to learn hair styling, which is a great asset for my clients since they often prefer to book a makeup and hair artist in one. My hair style preferences are quite in line with my makeup style: polished and classic.

How did graduating from Blanche MacDonald improve you as an artist?

Attending Blanche MacDonald was amazing! I was able to let out tons of creative energy and really refine my artistry skills in a variety of areas. Prior to attending Blanche MacDonald, airbrushing, fashion, and special effect makeups were unknown to me. I was lucky to have some amazing teachers (Jon Hennessey, Ashley Forshaw, and Corey Roberts) who would pass on their knowledge and provide me with honest feedback on how to improve my skills.

What will you be showing the Art World Expo audience this year? How are you planning on testing/demonstrating your skills at this year’s event?

I’ll be creating a classic fairy in the style of the Grimm’s Brothers. I want to demonstrate a more realistic character rather than creating an abstract interpretation of a fairy tale, and will demonstrate my skill set by applying make-up that looks intricate and detailed both up close and from a distance.