Art Perspective – Makeup Artist Donaldo Taylor

I had the opportunity to talk with a wonderful makeup artist back in May 2012 – I’m reposting his interview. He was nice enough to update us on his thoughts and reflections for 2014 as well, detailed below the interview.

– Chandra

C Dyann: Hi, it’s so nice to get a chance to speak with you. Where do you live and where are you from originally?

Donaldo: I currently live in the metropolitan Atlanta area but I’m originally from Republic of Panama.

C Dyann: How did you get your start as a makeup artist?

Donaldo:  I stumbled upon this talent as an adult however,  I remember my mother teaching me as a child the beauty of colors through flowers, the ocean and vegetation growing all around us in Panama. She taught me the blending of colors with my coloring book and later I just incorporated all of my knowledge onto the human canvas. I also attribute my passion to my friend Pauline. She sat me down one day in my bedroom and gave me the strength and courage to pursue my dream.

C Dyann: Who is your inspiration?

Donaldo: My inspiration is my Mother’s spirit that lives in my heart and looking at what God has created in his beautiful Universe.

C Dyann: You have built an outstanding portfolio as a makeup artist at Armani and MAC. Where can we find you now?

Donaldo: I made the leap to become self-employed and I am loving every single minute of it. I can be found on Facebook and Twitter.

C Dyann: Donaldo thank you so much for spending time with us. You’re a phenomenal makeup artist!

Donaldo: Thank you!

Experience Donaldo | Celebrity Makeup Artist | Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, Miami

Update:

I have been asked on numerous occasions, How do I become a Celebrity Make Up Artist? My answer is always the same. Lots of prayers, God’s favor and networking, networking, networking.

When my journey led me to the Art of Make Up Artistry. I studied the works of the different Artist in the Industry. As well as the different genres of Make Up Artistry that I could venture in to (Theater, SFX, Fashion, Urban etc). Once I decided which route peaked my interest. I then researched numerous photographers in my area, whose work mimicked “my style”. I sent emails, made phone calls to the various photographers and offered my services free of charge to build my book. One subject matter that we as Artist seem to stumble on is the business aspect of Make Up Artistry. I recommend studying the different structures of major corporations and incorporating some of their beliefs into your business!!!!

Once your book is built you can at that moment start marketing your talents to the various Modeling Agencies, Events etc in your area. Before you know it your name will start circulating around and your journey has now begun!

In this industry it is truly who you know vs. what you know. Running parallel to that is trying to balance “your reality” vs “your dream”. The industry is not consistent whatsoever, compared to the “everyday world” of working the typical 9 to 5. As each day passes a new set of issues arises weather its bills stacking up, hopes diminishing or battling with Father time.

However, with all of these opposing forces your quest should always be to keep striving to attain your goal(s). Study your craft and try not to compare yourself to how far your fellow Make Up Artist have gone in their career. Enjoy the journey and know that the journey your on was created just for you, no one else. So take pride in every step that you take and know that the happiness you achieve from the beautiful craft of Make Up Artistry is all that matters, Happiness is key!