A make-up artist applies cosmetics, powder, paint or grease paint to the faces of actors before they appear on stage or in front of the cameras. This work also requires the artist to carry out research on design, creation of character, period make-up and hairstyles for studio dramas, live theatre and film shoots.
Make-up artists consider the shape of the face, the bone structure, the form of the eyes and the complexion before applying the make-up. Special effects are created by tinting and bleaching the hair, making up and applying beards, moustaches and wigs, etc. They also use colouring materials, padding and prosthetic pieces to simulate wounds, cuts, scars and bruises or to create monstrous faces and hands.
The make-up artist is required to remain on duty during productions to touch up actors' make-up. A specialist in special effects and prosthetics may become a make-up designer. Other areas of specialization include: model make-up; ageing effects; fancy make-up; and wig making.
Satisfying Aspects
- the creative and artistic nature of the work
- opportunities for specialization
- working in cooperation with colleagues
Demanding aspects
- working long and irregular hours
- being on one's feet for long periods
- working under stress
Requirements
A make-up artist should:
- be socially inclined and enjoy working with people;
- have patience and tact;
- be healthy, cheerful, adaptable and dedicated;
- have an artistic flair;
- be eager to learn and to experiment with creative ideas;
- have great skill;
- have hand and finger dexterity;
- be able to use the specialized make-up tools
- courteous, pleasant and friendly
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate.
Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Visual Arts, Drama
Training
Drama studies are available at RU, US, UP, UCT, UFS, UKZN, Wits.
Diploma: Drama - TUT, Drama Studies - DUT, Entertainment Technology - DUT, TUT.
Cosmetology can be taken at the KZN Coastal, Port Elizabeth, SW Gauteng, Tshwane South and Northlink FET Colleges.
A number of private make-up schools offer training lasting from 3 to 6 months. However, it is only through practice and experience that deftness, artistic qualities and skill can be improved sufficiently to ensure final success.
Employer
- film production company
- theatre company
- television companies
- model agencies
- self-employment, doing freelance work
Contact
Registrar
CityVarsity Film & Television and Multimedia School
Tel: (0021) 423-3366
The Head
Department Entertainment Technology
Arts Faculty
Tshwane University of Technology
Private Bag X680
Pretoria, 0001