Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
What is a Makeup Artist, Theatrical and Performance?
A Makeup Artist, Theatrical and Performance is a creative professional who specializes in applying makeup and prosthetics to actors and performers in various entertainment settings, including theater, film, television, and live performances. Their primary goal is to enhance or alter the appearance of individuals to convey specific characters, moods, or themes, contributing significantly to the storytelling process. This role often requires a deep understanding of makeup techniques, color theory, and the physical demands of different performance environments. They work closely with directors, costume designers, and other creatives to achieve a cohesive visual representation of characters, often also responsible for maintaining the makeup throughout performances and correcting it as needed. Makeup Artists in this field may also engage in special effects makeup, using materials like latex and silicone to create realistic wounds, aging effects, or fantastical appearances. Their work is fundamental in shaping the audience's perception and emotional engagement with the performance, making it a vital aspect of the theatrical and cinematic experience.
Tasks
- Apply makeup to enhance or alter the appearance of people appearing in productions such as movies.
- Select desired makeup shades from stock, or mix oil, grease, and coloring to achieve specific color effects.
- Duplicate work precisely to replicate characters' appearances on a daily basis.
- Cleanse and tone the skin to prepare it for makeup application.
- Assess performers' skin type to ensure that makeup will not cause break-outs or skin irritations.
Technology Skills
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Graphics or photo imaging software
- Adobe Photoshop
- Autodesk Maya
- Autodesk Mudbox
- SavingFace
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Web page creation and editing software
- Blogging software
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
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Accounting software
- Clear Books
- Intuit QuickBooks
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Data base user interface and query software
- Bookitlive
- Client databases
Tools Used
- Makeup kits
- Costumes or accessories
- Palette knives
- Notebook computers
- Hand sprayers
Knowledge
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
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Fine Arts
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Skills
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Arm-Hand Steadiness
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
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Manual Dexterity
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Less than high school diploma
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Some college, no degree
Work Activities
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Thinking Creatively
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Detailed Work Activities
- Apply makeup to alter or enhance appearance.
- Apply cleansing or conditioning agents to client hair, scalp, or skin.
- Review production information to determine costume or makeup requirements.
- Assess skin or hair conditions.
- Collaborate with others to determine production details.
Work Interests
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Artistic
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$21540.0 - $141060.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.