Candidate  Name  : Megan Anne Hoff

Candidate  Number : 297992

Pathway  : Specialist Makeup

Project Title  : Unit 8 – Fantasy ( Final Major Project)

Section 1: Review (Approx 150-300 words)

I believe my skills, both practical and coursework based have massively improved since completing unit one, at the start of the year. As the time has passed I have learned to be aware of how each task will improve my skills in specific areas, and know exactly what the exam board is expecting from me. Personally, I think learning about audience perspectives, and how all aspects of an environment must be considered when planning a makeup look, is one of the most important skills I have come to understand since the start of this course. Knowing not only what, but how to consider these factors is hugely important before entering the professional industry. I also believe completing work experience throughout this course has hugely impacted my confidence, and helped to build my client communication skills to an exceptional standard. My new found knowledge has helped me to fall in love with not only creating a makeup look, but the process of designing one from scratch, by considering all potential factors. This has helped grow my passion for makeup, and helped me realise that this is definitely an industry I would like to pursue a career in. Furthermore, experimenting with many different themes and mediums of makeup has allowed me to find an interest for all aspects of the industry, rather than just one specialised area.

Section 2: Project Concept (approx 200-500 words)

For my unit eight assignment, I have been given the theme fantasy. This is a topic that really interests me, especially for makeup work, as there are little to no boundaries for the looks you can create. Fantasy is a broad area, allowing us plenty of freedom when designing our own looks. One of the first things that came to my mind when I read my brief was a stone creature. Many mythical films and television shows often depict characters in forms that are not usually known as living, such as metals, and stones. I love the idea of creating some form of living statue, and believe I could incorporate many techniques into this design, making it a great opportunity for me to showcase all my skills.  My initial idea is to create this creature using mainly grease paints. I plan to use the white shade from my Kryolan supra colour palette, to create a base layer, then use grey and black eye shadows and water based paints to add texture and detailing to the look. I intend to use eyelashes to help emphasise the human effect of this character. Furthermore, I plan to use faux ivy leaves and flowers as props, to enhance the overall finish. Therefore, I will need to purchase products in order to create a costume at home. However, I must ensure the model can still freely move while in this, as this look will also be used for our end of year showcase, where the model will have to walk a catwalk. I intend to conduct my research by accessing a range of resources, including books, films and websites, as well as collecting my own primary research through creating surveys. After collecting my research, I will compare my ideas, with those of others, in an attempt to rationalise my design. Furthermore, I will use this research to explain how different audiences perceive certain concepts. These results will be recorded in a written evaluation on my blog. My work will be presented on my blog, which will be regularly updated with new work. Every time I practice my work, change an idea or experiment with a new technique, I will document the results on my page. Furthermore, this will help show the continuous development of my work, throughout the whole design process. Ensuring I stick to a schedule will be extremely important for this assignment, in order to give myself enough time for each section of work. I will achieve this by creating a time table, with weekly sections, helping me remember to regularly upload my work. This will also ensure all my work is done to the highest standard, and in as much detail as possible, as it will prevent me from rushing to finish.

Section 3: Evaluation (approx 100 – 500 words)

Throughout this project, I intend to keep a reflective journal. I have a notepad designated for this, and plan to have this with me at all times, when working at college and practising at home. In this I will document any feedback on the work I have created, whether that be self evaluation, peer evaluation, or feedback from my lecturer. At the start of each lesson I plan to set myself at least two targets for the work I will be creating, which I will record in the journal. By the end of each lesson I will have recorded whether or not I achieved these targets, set new targets for the future, and recorded any feedback. This will help to ensure that my work is constantly progressing, and that I am always pushing boundaries to help me meet professional industry standards. Being self critical is a huge part of the hair and beauty industry, as working in a creative field always allows you room to improve, no matter how good you are.  I will continuously update my blog posts, in order to document any changes to my ideas during the process of this project. This will help prove that I know how to expand and evolve my ideas, using creative problem solving. Furthermore, this shows I know how to build upon an initial idea. Conducting research in order to develop an initial design is an extremely important part of this industry, making it an important task to regularly practice. Regularly updating my blog posts with the information I record in my progress journal will support that I am continuously evaluating my work. Additionally, I will upload any images of work I may complete at home or in college that shows me working towards my final design. Each piece of work will be accompanied by a small evaluation, highlighting my strengths and weaknesses. I will then create a final overall evaluation at the end of my project, including a detailed analysis of my final practical outcome, as well as an evaluation of the project as a whole. This will help me to minimise disruption to my work, as I will be continuously setting myself new goals to reach. Furthermore, gaining feedback from a wider range of people helps ensure opinions are not biased, and could potentially make me aware of certain areas of improvement that me and others may not pick up. Everyone has their own individual views, so this also helps to ensure that my work appeals to the biggest possible audience.

Proposed Research Sources and Bibliography (Harvard Format)

Here is a list of sources I believe I am likely lo access during my project, in a Harvard referenced format.  Works Cited“Amazon.co.uk Sign up for Prime Video.” Www.amazon.co.uk, http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/video/offers/ref=dvm_uk_sl_ambr_mkw_sk8wVAJ9S-dc_pcrid_511016846360?ie=UTF8&gclid=Cj0KCQjwl7qSBhD-ARIsACvV1X1MwY89hbxPw6ch8jzbb_IM2CHdaFJAvZxcD0SJ83Ffk1P92cScftgaAmLDEALw_wcB&mrntrk=slid__pgrid_108201538948_pgeo_9045740_x__ptid_kwd-420975860121. Cambridge Dictionary. “FANTASY | Meaning in the Cambridge English Dictionary.” Cambridge.org, 2019, dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/fantasy.Eldridge, Lisa. Face Paint : The Story of Makeup. New York, Abrams, 2015. Google. “Google Forms: Free Online Surveys for Personal Use.” Google.co.uk, 2019, http://www.google.co.uk/forms/about/. IMDb. “IMDb – Movies, TV and Celebrities.” IMDb, 2008, http://www.imdb.com/. Instagram. “Instagram.” Instagram, 2022, http://www.instagram.com/. Morawetz, Thomas. Making Faces, Playing God : Identity and the Art of Transformational Makeup. Austin, University Of Texas Press, 2001. Netflix. “Netflix United Kingdom – Watch TV Programmes Online, Watch Films Online.” Netflix.com, 2009, http://www.netflix.com/gb/. Nguyen-Grealis, Lan, et al. Art & Makeup. London, Laurence King Publishing, 2015.—. ProMakeup Design Book. London, Laurence King Publishing Ltd, 2019. Pinterest. “Pinterest (United Kingdom).” Pinterest, 2019, http://www.pinterest.co.uk/. “Script Slug.” Script Slug, http://www.scriptslug.com/. “Sign up | Disney+.” Www.disneyplus.com, http://www.disneyplus.com/en-gb/sign-up/?type=standard&gclsrc=aw.ds&&cid=DSS-Search-Google-71700000070665426-&s_kwcid=AL. Accessed 7 Apr. 2022.Youtube. “YouTube.” YouTube, 2022, http://www.youtube.com/.

Project Action Plan and Timetable

Week	Date Week Beginning	Activity / What you are intending to do – including independent study	Resources / What you will need to do it – including access to workshops
One	Friday 1st April	Brief research into the theme fantasy to help influence my initial ideas. This is needed for part of my project proposal.	I will need to look at a range of online resources to help me with this. I will not look at books or productions as this is just a brief research task.
One	Saturday 2nd April	Research into different evaluation techniques, and look into how to keep a reflective journal. This will help me to decide how I am going to evaluate my work for this unit.	I will read through resources we have been given by our lecturer, as well as carrying out independent online research. I will also need to purchase a notepad to use as my journal.
Two	Monday 4th April	Write up my findings, and complete my project proposal using the template given.	For this I will need access to a computer, and must ensure I have all my notes to hand.
Two	Tuesday 5th April	Begin more extensive research into the project theme, and begin exploring my initial ideas.	Access to a computer, and my proposed research sources.
Three	Monday 11th April	Research into the historical context of the fantasy theme. Collect information to create a timeline of events relevant to my initial ideas.	Access to a computer and my proposed research sources, as well as any other sources I may choose to use. I would like to gather primary research by creating a survey on this topic, asking my family and friends to give their input. This will help me to understand how different people view the same concept. I may use the results of this to help influence my research.
Three	Friday 15th April	Research into productions that may help support or influence my ideas. Choose one film or television show to create a script breakdown. This will help me to justify certain aspects of my design.	Access to streaming platforms that may allow me to view multiple productions, in order to analyse which will be most supporting for my ideas. A computer, and access to the internet allowing me to view a script platform, such as script slug.
Four	Monday 18th April	Create a document explaining all health and safety issues that must be considered when creating a makeup look, or working in a salon environment. I must reference my previous work as well as conducting new research, to help expand my knowledge.	I must have access to all my previous work, as well as the internet, to help me expand my knowledge.
Four	Tuesday 19th April	Create mood boards, one for my overall theme (fantasy) and then one for each of my initial ideas. This will help visually represent my thought process.	A computer device will allow me to access multiple sources to collect information about this subject, helping me build a mood board. Referencing back to my chosen productions, used for the script breakdowns, will be an important part of this task.
Five	Monday 25th April	Create a character profile for my design, analysing previous depictions of similar characters, as well as detailing my intended representation.	Access to previous sources such as my chosen productions, will be a key park of this task. Additionally I must ensure that I reference back to my initial ideas and research on this topic. This will help me to explain how I have developed my ideas.
Five	Tuesday 26th April	Analyse previous depictions of characters similar to those I intend to create. Look into hair and makeup designs, as well as costumes and props.	Access to multiple proposed sources, including books, television shows, movies and websites. Looking at similar work that has been previously created by other makeup artists will also be beneficial. Instagram and pintrest may be used for this.
Six	Monday 2nd May	Create my initial makeup and hair designs. Ensure to make notes of props and costumes that may be used. Create multiple designs for each idea, detailing the reasons why I have chosen each look.	Reference back to my previous research and mood boards to help support my designs.
Six	Friday 6th May	Create a list of any products, including costume and props, that I may have to purchase for this look.	Consider my designs and any information I collected when researching and creating my mood boards. Also consider any materials I already own that could potentially be used. Before this I must have found my model, to ensure all products meet their specific needs, and are in the correct sizes.
Seven	Monday 9th May	Further research into ideas to gather information that will help me to create my initial designs.	Reference back to initial research to ensure I explain how I have developed my initial ideas, without being too repetitive.
Seven	Tuesday 10th May	Upload all practice images, and ensure to include an evaluation underneath each. I must include all work, even if I don’t particularly like it, to help show my continuous development.	I must ensure I attend all practical workshops, as well as practising outside of college. This will help to show I am eager to develop my look, and experiment with different potential options.
Eight	Monday 16th May	Work on creating my final developed design, create a detailed makeup and hair design, with front, back and side views. Ensure to consider consumers and props when creating this.	I must ensure I have printed out face, body and hair charts. I must have any reference images to hand, and must ensure I have all products I may need to create the design.
Eight	Tuesday 17th May	Ensure all designs are finalised, with detailed annotations. Annotations must explain the purpose of each factor, and include a product list.	I must ensure I have printed out face, body and hair charts. I must have any reference images to hand, and must ensure I have all products I may need to create the design.
Eight	Friday 20th May	Proof read all work and ensure I am completely happy with everything I have created. Re-read through my brief to ensure I have met all expectations, and my work is to the highest possible standard.	Must have access to all of my previous work. Reference all of my written notes to ensure I have included everything I intended to, and haven’t missed any crucial information.
Nine	Wednesday 25th May	Ensure all my designs are finalised, and ready for today’s practical assessment and photo shoot.	Access to my blog, allowing me to upload any practice work I have created since May 10th. I must make sure I don’t forget my designs or mood boards, as I will need these for my assessment.
Nine	Thursday 26th May	Add the finishing touches to my work by uploading my practical assessment photos onto my bog, and write my final evaluation. Ensure all work is completed ready for final hand in.	Access to my blog to upload the last section of this assignment. Reference any notes written in my reflective journal when writing my evaluation, to show proof of continuous personal development.

Task 3

For this task I am expected to produce a design documentation that is appropriate for a proposal to a production company. I was required to choose my won theme, so I decided to work on recreating the makeup of Morticia Adams, from the Adams Family.

Below are photos of the slides from my presentation document. Each slide has bullet point sentences to influence the points I spoke about. Below each photo is a more in depth description of the infotmation I actually spoke about.

On the first page of my presentation, I introduced the task, and purpose of the document.

Here, I crated a college showcasing previous depictions of the Adams family. I collected images from the original movie and television show, animated remake, and multiple on stage musical versions. Showing multiple different examples of a concept helps show I have researched in to multiple different backgrounds of the character, helping expand my knowledge of the character and where they come from. From these images you can clearly see that the Adams family are an unusual collective. Furthermore its obvious that they look very similar in each depiction, implying there is a specific reaction wanted from the audience.

Here, I further explained the story line of the movie, helping build the origin and background story of my chosen character. Using the previous images to support, I built the idea that the family are unusual and seen as frightening by others around them. Combining elements of traditional horror movie characters helps ensure the audience has the desired reaction, upon a characters first appearance. Additionally, I researched in to the origins of my characters name, and looked in to multiple different subjects that may be implied by this. This helps to build my characters background, and amplify the initial ideas the audience will have, triggered by the appearance of each character.

Here I have created another collage, this time focusing only on my chosen character. Again, I have collected images from multiple sources to compare the way her character is portrayed in different settings. I used these images to support my description of Morticia’s typical appearance.

Here I have created another collage, this time of photos showing how witches are usually portrayed in tv and film. I used this collection of images to support my view, that Morticia’s character appearance is nothing like that of a traditional witch. Instead, her actions are used to build her character, rather than focusing on the makeup for an initial understanding, creating a clear idea of her background..

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This slide contains an annotated photo of my first makeup design. I created this design to show how witches are commonly represented in the film industry, and explained that I created a more glam version to imply that this character isn’t all as bad as she seems. However, I further explain this look would not be suitable for this production, as the Adams Family are unaware of why others view them as frightening. I think it goes without saying that Morticia may have a strong idea of why shes an out cast, if her appearance was so different to that of everyone around her.

For my second design, I recreated the original look Morticia is seen wearing in the movies, tv show and even on stage. In every appearance her character tends to have a very specific appearance, in terms of hair and makeup. I think in a performance this look is effective, as her character is mainly built through her actions. However, upon first look I personally think this looks more like a vampire than a witch. I think the minimal use of colour, and focus on black and greys with a pop of red, makes me think of the slender, pale look that vampires typically show. I understand why this look is used, as it is just a grunge version of a basic glam that may be worn by others around her. This helps to imply that the family just want to fit in with regular society, but would rather be themselves than change to fit societies standards.

This design shows my interpretation of Morticia’s character. I have recreated the makeup by combining the colours green and purple, that are commonly connected with witches. Furthermore, I have kept the harsh contour as I think the appearance of sunken cheeks is really effective for this character, however I have chosen to use warmer colours to eliminate the impression of a vampire. I have also added a mole above the lip, as moles and warts on the face are also usually linked with witches. I chose a mole rather than a wart as this look is far more glamorous of those of a typical witch. This is to help build the idea that the family want to fit in with the normal society, but will not change themselves to fit the standards.

Above is a list of products that I would use if I created this look.

Here is an initial hair design I put together, to showcase how Morticia’s hair is usually worn.

I further developed this idea by explaining that I believe adding grey or white highlights throughout the hair would be effective in building this character. Personally, I think having the hair long, straight and down works really well for this character. A beehive could be added but personally, I connect up do’s to Dracula’s bride, when thinking of traditional horror movie characters. Therefore I decided to stick with a simple hairstyle, keeping the focus on the makeup, to prevent any confusion around this character.

Finally, I added in two slides at the end of my document, noting some of the important health and safety factors that would need to be considered when creating a makeup look. This helps support that I have the knowledge needed to work in a professional environment, such as a movie set. When presenting this document I not only stated each factor, but explained why they were important.

Task 1

For this task I must complete a skills audit from 3 points in the year to highlight areas of strength, and others that could still be developed. This helps to ensure I am constantly reflecting on my progress.

Then, I must create a case study of a working industry professional, highlighting their career and how they have reached the stage they are currently at. I will achieve this by researching in to an industry professional.

Lastly, I must identify multiple potential paths of progression, explaining the purpose of each, and how they could help me on my journey.

Reflection

For this section, I must complete a skills audit. I have chosen my 3 points of the year to be : October 2021 ( Units 1 and 2 ), December 2021 (Units 3 and 4), and February 2022 (Units 5 and 6). I am going to complete an evaluation of my work at each stage, comparing the strengths and weaknesses within my work, and highlighting what I can develop, and how I can achieve this.

Units 1 and 2

Even when comparing my practice work, to my final assessment look, I believe you can clearly see an improvement in my work, after taking on the feedback from my peers, as well as my own evaluations. For example, In my first attempt at stage makeup, the foundation was not blended down the neck, on to the ears, or into the hairline – creating a very unnatural look. However during my practical assessments I ensured this target was met, blending the foundation all over to ensure my performer had a flawless base appearance when on stage. 

Another target I set myself during this unit was to work on my symmetry. When creating stage makeup, facial features such as the eyes and lips must be over lined to stand out. During my first few attempts of this style of makeup, the lines I had created under the eyes were unsymmetrical. This was not obvious from a distance, but I still wanted to ensure my makeup was to the best possible standard for my final assessment. I think this definitely improved before my assessment, however it is still a skill that needs some practice.

These units were the first time I had to independently complete extensive research, and reference during coursework. I am pleased with the overall outcome of my work, especially considering it was my first time doing anything like this. At the start of this assignment I did struggle to understand what the brief meant, and how to achieve the research and referencing targets, however after some lessons on how to Harvard reference I quickly got the hang of it. However, I believe I could have carried out more detailed research for the tasks, so I set myself the target to dive deeper when researching, once I had become more confident about the research and referencing.

Units 3 and 4 

This unit really helped me to develop my research skills, by requiring me to complete a script breakdown, comparison and a formal interview. Similar to the first units, when I first read this brief I was confused about what was expected of me. I had never completed a script breakdown before, therefore, had no idea what one was or how to do so. However after some research, and guidance from our lecturer I was soon in the process of completing this task. My script breakdown was not the most detailed, but I am pleased with how well I did, considering at the start I wasn’t even sure what a script breakdown was. I think completing the comparisons task really helped influence my ideas when creating my designs. Completing this task after learning about audience perspectives in units 1 and 2, was vital in the hair and makeup design process. The knowledge I had from units 1 and 2 combined with what I was learning in the duration of this assignment, helped me further understand how important the role of hair and makeup is, when building a character in the audience’s minds. Furthermore, I believe completing the formal interview helped massively improve my confidence, and communication skills, when working with clients. I also think this was a great example of ways to gain primary research.

I am really pleased with the final practical outcome of this assignment. Once again, I believe it is clear to see that I listened to the feedback I was given by my peers, as well as working towards the targets I had set, and finding creative ways to solve problems. For example, when I first created this look, I used black eye shadow on and around the lips. Immediately, I noticed that this technique would not withstand the duration of the performance, as it was wearing off the lips almost straight away. Next, I tried using a black water based face paint, this was also unsuccessful as It was uncomfortable for the model once it had dried. Also, as this product is water based it would smudge when the performer had a drink, and could also potentially start to run due to sweat. I did not own a black lipstick, or gloss, nor did I have enough time to purchase one. Therefore, I used creative problem solving to create a product myself. I mixed vaseline with some black eye shadow, to create a comfortable yet effective lip gloss. This product worked perfectly for the look we were creating, and I was so pleased to have solved the problem.

Furthermore, I am very happy with the planning of this look. I believe I created creative, detailed face charts, each with a clear explanation of their purpose. I worked alongside my client to create a look that clearly resembles her character. This character in particular has 2 faces, each of which look very similar to other characters. Therefore, we created a split face look, with a shadow to help indicate that one of the faces is a mask. I had never created shadows before and therefore am so happy with how it made the look come together. After this task, I decided I wanted to work on creating more realistic face charts, a target I set myself ready for the next units. I also used this task to help improve my symmetry skills (when creating the mouth and teeth), and meet the target I set from the last assignment.

Units 5 and 6

I definitely believe this is the best work I have produced so far. I ensured that in this assignment I worked on meeting or exceeding all the targets I had set for myself, and took on all feedback I was given by my peers. In this assignment, I believe that I met my target of more detailed research. Using independent research, alongside the information I had been taught at college, I documented my findings, with lots of images to support. Ensuring I provided detailed research into makeup trends, product ingredients, multiple examples of influences, as well as other important hair, fashion and beauty factors, I believe I exceeded my expectations from the target I had previously set for research and presentation.

For the practical section of this assignment, I ensured to experiment with multiple different techniques to create a certain look.  This helped me to build my product knowledge, and ensured I would always be confident to use an alternative method, if I ever needed too. When recreating makeup looks from the past, I tried to stick to the traditions as much as possible. I used a modern alternative to the products used at the time in order to create the most historically accurate look possible. Although some of these practices may be seen as strange in the modern makeup world, I think this worked really effectively in the finished looks.

When working on creating a male look, I challenged myself to include certain special effects into my design. This helped ensure I am continuously pushing myself to the best of my ability, helping improve my skills. As I was creating a male look, I didn’t want to just have a plain face, and therefore decided to add cuts and bruises into my look. When planning my face charts, I ensured to research bruising and how they aged, in order to create the most realistic finish possible. I pushed myself even further in my assessment when creating the bruise, as I had only created a bruising effect three times before the assessment! I definitely exceeded my expectations when looking at the finished result, and I’m so pleased I set myself this challenge. Furthermore, I believe this also helped me to meet the target I set myself, by ensuring I created even more detailed, realistic face plans than before.

Now I am more comfortable with researching independently, and how to reference, I have set myself the target to continue detailed research and referencing when working towards planning a makeup look. I will achieve this by ensuring I have a clear plan of when I would like to complete each task. Planning out my actions helps ensure I reach my goals on time, and gives me enough time to complete detailed work, rather that rushing,

I also want to ensure that I continue to challenge myself to experiment with new techniques and products, helping build my technical and problem solving skills, as well as building product knowledge. This can be achieved by ensuring that I try using different products and techniques for the same end result each time I practice. Therefore, when I create the final look I can combine the techniques I enjoyed, and leave out the ones that didn’t work so well.

Symmetry is a technique I would still like to work on. However, I have rapidly improved this since the start of my course, and now am much more confident when it comes to ensuring my makeup is symmetrical. Continuous practice will ensure I exceed this target.

Research

For this section, I must research someone that works in the hair and beauty industry, creating a case study to identify their pathways, leading to the position they are currency working in. This will help to show a real life example of the options I have when leaving college.

For My case study, I chose to interview my cousin, Candice Dean, who has been working in the hair and beauty industry for almost 8 years. Candice very kindly slotted me into a very busy schedule, as she was on a flight to a job in Venice when answering my questions !!

Candice first studied at Kohl Makeup Academy, in Cape Town, South Africa. Her course lasted only 6 months, covering a range of themes, including Bridal, Avant Garde, and even some Special Effects techniques.

Upon leaving college, Candice was lucky to assist Makeup artist, Jessica Le Clos, on various commercials in South Africa including, Rosetta Stone Language School, and Ackermans Clothing. Candice longed to work in film/tv and fashion, so Jessica advised her to study hairdressing too. Jessica explained people may be more likely to hire a hair or makeup artist if they are double skilled. This has always stuck with Candice, and inspired her next moves.

Next, Candice decided to move to London, UK. Before starting her hair career, she worked as a waitress for roughly two and a half years, to help build funds and to keep earning a living while deciding which path to take. One day, Candice did the makeup of a colleague and friend at the restaurant. Coincidentally, someone came into the restaurant and loved Candice’s work, so invited her on to a test shoot for makeup and hair. On this shoot, Candice met a hairstylist who asked Candice to interview for a new salon on Kings Road, in Chelsea.

Candice then started working as an assistant in a brilliant blow dry bar, called the Duck&Dry, and stayed there for roughly six months. Then, she and some colleagues moved over to another blow dry bar, called SHOW dry – owned by Tamara Ecclestone – in Notting Hill, on West Bourne Grove. In her six months at the salon, Candice loved the experience of working with A-list clientele. Candice explained to me that many of her clients would come to get ready for charity dinners, awards, weddings etc.

Blow Dry bars consist mainly of hair ups, event hairstyles, and of course blowdries but, Candice was eager to learn how to cut and colour. Therefore, she chose to branch out to a fully functioning salon (TaylorTaylor London, based in Liberty’s, Oxford Circus), including all hair services, while studying her VRQ level 2 qualification in hairdressing, at Kensington and Chelsea college. This course lasted one year, with Candice working four days of the week, alongside two days of attending college. 

Candice says she ‘absolutely loved working at TaylorTaylor and the hairdressers inspired me so much with their skills and their passion’. In particular Candice remembers two colleagues that stood out to her, Natalia, and Michael Kelly. Natalia, who would always answer any questions with such detail, helped Candice understand that this is an ever growing industry, and there is always room for improvement no matter how good you are. Candice recalled a time she complimented Natalia’s work, and she responded “I could’ve done better”, she explained at the time she thought this was crazy as the work was brilliant, however, now in Natalia’s position she can totally relate to wanting her work to be absolutely perfect.

Michael Kelly, a hair colourist, inspired Candice immensely, and became her mentor. Candice was Michael’s main assistant, and says he would challenge her by constantly asking her questions to help boost her knowledge, such as asking her what colour she saw when toner was being  processed. While working alongside Michael, Candice says her experience was crazy, but absolutely amazing. Long work days would see her working from 9am-8pm, with a lunch break around 4pm. However, Candice would be called back shortly after her breaks as Michael would need her and only her, as he had all his trust in her, and didn’t like to give anyone else Candice’s responsibilities. Eventually, Michael moved back to Australia, which made Candice upset as she had learned so much from him, and would forever be grateful.

Candice graduated from Kensington and Chelsea college with her level 2 VRQ, as well as a student of the year award, and after placing second place in the end of year hair competition. After her graduation, she decided to study further at the prestigious Sassoon Academy, in Bond street, to complete her level 3 NVQ, and Sassoon Diploma. This saw Candice attend training five days a week, making it hard to fit work into her schedule. However, luckily Candice still had savings from her waitressing job to get her through this period. While training here, Candice won first place for hair styling at her end of year soiree at Wella Academy, she also once again was named student of the year, and graduated top of her class, with an A in cutting, and in colouring.

After graduation Candice worked as a stylist at Rush in St Paul’s, London, before deciding to move away. Next, she decided to move to Sydney, Australia to work with her mentor Michael, as she needed some time away from London. Candice claimed working in Sydney was one of the most amazing experiences of her life, and she learned so much valuable knowledge. Working in Australia is tricky, due to visas, so Candice decided to move on to South Africa, however says she would have loved to work in Australia for longer. Candice still wasn’t ready to return to the Uk, so her next stop was Cape Town, where she had grown up. Here, she worked at an amazing salon called MOP, where everyone considered each other as family, and she claims their teamwork was so incredible. Shanti, the manager of MOP, had a huge influence on Candice, and who she is today, as a stylist. Candice says she ‘will always be eternally grateful to her.’ Candice described MOP as her dream salon, however she found it hard living in South Africa, so far away from her family, as she found it quite lonely at times, especially when Covid-19 hit.

Eventually, Candice returned to the UK, and is currently working in a beautiful salon in Wimbledon Village, POSE, which she absolutely loves. Candice loves her small, intimate team, as they are all super close and work extremely well together. Clientele is lovely, and she is in love with the salon aesthetic. Candice is currently working as a colourist and stylist. She decided to never specialise in just one as she loves both.

Working in fashion, on tv and commercials is an absolute dream for Candice, as she loves the magic of it all. Candice would love to get her colour degree, and potentially study tricology. This would enable her to help impact the lives of others even more than she does already, as she describes it would be more meaningful, than materialistic. Potentially, Candice may consider opening her own salon, to create a ‘beautiful, yet safe space for everyone. Including those who need guidance when going through something medical or traumatic, such as cancer patients, alopecia, post pregnancy, and wigs.’ Candice also explained she would love to work and study with Ayurvedic medicine, for a more internal approach to healing the body, for your hair.

Over the years, Candice has worked with many top brands, including Davines, Oribe, Wella, Kerastase, Shu Mera, Redken, and Joico. She has also completed various color courses with Wella hair, and Kevin Murphy. She has worked on various photo shoots, commercials, and fashion shows including, AFI Fashion Week, Van Cleef & Arpels Couture show, RAW sydney, Dr Natasha Cook – a Dermatology brand, and Ackermans. 

Identify

For this section I must research, identify, and explain a shortlist of my 3 preferred training opportunities for when I leave college.

After researching multiple different progression routes, my first pick would be to attend university. My first choice of University is Solent, Southampton. Much like my cousin Candice, I would love to work in many different areas of the industry, rather than specialising in just one. Therefore, I am interested in the BA (Hons) in Make-up and hair design course, run at this university. This course runs for three years, and requires a minimum of 96 UCAS points for application. Covering commercial, fashion and media work, this course would help to further prepare me for a range of work in the hair and beauty industry. Then, once I had graduated, I could spend a further year here, completing the MA Makeup and Hair design features course, to help me gain specialist knowledge on prosthetics.

Another university I have looked into is Bucks-New university, in Buckinghamshire. The BA (Hons) in Hair and Make-up for film and Performance, is a two year course at Bucks new, with an entry requirement of 88-112 UCAS points. This university has a training makeup studio on campus, as well as inside the famous Pinewood studio. This allows students to build contacts, and have an almost immediate transfer into industry. As much as this is an amazing opportunity, as said before I think I would like to work in all areas of industry, rather than specialising just in TV and film, which is what this course is more focused on. Furthermore, staying close to home is important to me, and Bucks New University is much further than Solent (which is only a 30 minute drive away from my current home) however, I would not completely rule out an opportunity for this reason.

Many film production companies, such as Warner Brothers, and Disney, offer apprenticeships, allowing students to step straight into industry. I haven’t done much research into this topic but know it is definitely something that does interest me. However, it is hard to find much information on this subject at the moment, as Covid-19 has put many of these opportunities on hold.

When we went on a trip to Pinewood studios, One of the lecturers from Bucks New University was talking to us about her work in the industry, and the steps that got her to where she is today. She explained how she attended college, and after graduation worked her way up to industry by working in commercial salons, and expanding her connections. Eventually, she was working on huge film projects such as Gladiator, and travelled all around the world while working. However, when she decided to have children, she took a step back out of the industry, and into teaching. This is something that I am really keen to look into. I would love to graduate university and work in industry for a few years, and then when the time is right work towards getting the qualifications needed to teach hair and makeup. This appeals to me as I am a very family oriented person, and think I would rather drop some working responsibilities and spend more time with my family, while they were younger. Then, as they grow older I could potentially start to work on some more industry based projects again, like the lady from Pinewood, who now teaches part time, and works in industry when she can.

Another additional route of progression in this industry is going straight into work. After leaving college I could either go to work in a salon, or start up my own business as a freelance makeup artist. I would love to start up my own business after leaving college, to help support me financially while at university. I have already started to build a regular clientele, through private work I have completed, to help build my portfolio, and gain extra experience.

Many people also like to take a gap year, to travel, while deciding what they would like to do after college. Personally, I think I am comfortable with my choices and have a clear plan of how I would like to progress. However, If I ever did decide to take a year or two off, I would ensure to attend short courses to help ensure I am keeping on top of the latest trends, in an industry that is constantly evolving. Short courses are a crucial part of a hair and makeup artist’s career, as they ensure you are always reaching new limits.

Task 2

For this task I must choose to focus on one of my favourite makeup techniques, aiming to improve a core skill for my discipline. I must create a video of me demonstrating the technique, and explaining why this skill is beneficial for a training makeup-artist. Furthermore, I must ensure I attend all technique classes and workshops provided, to ensure I am constantly working on progressing my skills.

Below is a link to the video tutorial I created. I chose to focus this video on creating a flawless makeup base. I believe this is one of the most important skills you can learn as a makeup-artist, as without a flawless base the overall look will not be effective.

I created this video with the aim to educate people on the key steps of creating the best base possible, allowing a flawless overall finish.

Firstly, I explained how it is important to maintain a good skin care routine, in order to create an airbrushed look. Good skin care helps ensure the skin is always in a healthy condition, and also helps to minimise imperfections, making this process easier. Cleanser, toner and moisturiser should be applied to the face every morning and night, and before and after any makeup application. This helps to ensure there is no product left on the face, tighten pores, and prevent dryness.

Secondly, I briefly explained why it is also important to apply primer. This product helps to minimise pores and fine lines, creating a blank canvas for your makeup. Furthermore, primer also helps prevent makeup from clogging up pores.

Next, I demonstrated how one foundation shade alone will never perfectly match the skin tone. Practically demonstrating what I was speaking about made my point extremely clear. Not only did I explain how and why you should mix multiple shades of foundation, but ensured I detailed how this could be done with multiple different mediums. Cream and liquid foundations are very different to work with, so I felt it was important I explained how this could be done when using either of these mediums, to ensure I met the potential needs of my target audience.

I also explained why it is important to match the foundation shade to the skin on the neck, rather than using your wrist. This technique is much more effective as it helps you clearly see how accurate the shade is compared to the skin you are trying to match.

Additionally, I briefly touched on what colour corrector is, and how to use it. Before college I had no idea how to apply colour corrector, or what it was even made for. This resulted in a very uneven base, as I suffer quite badly with redness. However since starting college and learning the importance of this product I can see a huge difference in the overall effect of my work.

Finally, I also briefly touched on a range of setting powders, explaining which I personally found worked best and why. This also lead me to explain why it is so important to conduct research in to a product and its intended use, before trying it out. Additionally, I explained why it is vital to practice looks as often as you can, on a range of different skin tones and types. All of this will help ensure you have the best product knowledge possible, which is extremely important before working on clients as a professional.

Throughout the video I ensured to mention some top tips and tricks I have learned along the way. These may not work for everybody, but I shared them as I feel they have helped me massively improve. For example, using a brush to blend foundation, and then patting over the top with a damp beauty blender, or dampening a sponge with setting spray rather than water.

Here is a collection of all the sources I viewed during my research, that helped inspire my work.

All Things Hair United Kingdom. (2019). 1950s Hairstyles | 17 vintage and retro ’50s hairstyles. [online] Available at: https://www.allthingshair.com/en-uk/hairstyles-haircuts/vintage-hairstyles/50s-hairstyles-bouffant-curls/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

Artist, S.B.L.G.C.M. (n.d.). History of Makeup in Egypt. [online] LoveToKnow. Available at: https://makeup.lovetoknow.com/History_of_Makeup_in_Egypt#:~:text=Makeup%20Ingredients&text=Some%20of%20the%20common%20cosmetics [Accessed 20 Feb. 2022].

Blue17 vintage clothing. (n.d.). 1950s Fashion – Clothes styles and History – 50s women’s fashion – Blue17. [online] Available at: https://www.blue17.co.uk/vintage-blog/1950s-fashion/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

Gio (2010). Beauty History: The Elizabethan Era. [online] Beautiful With Brains. Available at: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/beauty-history-the-elizabethan-era/ [Accessed 20 Feb. 2022].

Glamour Daze. (2013). The History of 1950s Makeup. [online] Available at: https://glamourdaze.com/history-of-makeup/1950s#:~:text=However%20when%20conjuring%20up%20the [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

Glamour Daze. (2015). The 1970s Makeup Look – 5 key Points | Glamour Daze. [online] Available at: https://glamourdaze.com/2015/09/the-1970s-makeup-look-5-key-points.html [Accessed 20 Feb. 2022].

H&MUA Team (2014). Women’s 1950s Makeup: An Overview. [online] Hair and Makeup Artist Handbook. Available at: https://hair-and-makeup-artist.com/womens-1950s-makeup/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

H&MUA Team (2015). Women’s 1920s Makeup: An Overview – Hair and Makeup Artist Handbook. [online] Hair and Makeup Artist Handbook. Available at: https://hair-and-makeup-artist.com/womens-1920s-makeup/ [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

Hair and Makeup Artist Handbook. (2013). Women’s 1970s Makeup: An Overview. [online] Available at: https://hair-and-makeup-artist.com/womens-1970s-makeup/ [Accessed 20 Feb. 2022].

Historical Honey. (2017). An Elizabethan Beauty Guide. [online] Available at: https://historicalhoney.com/an-elizabethan-beauty-guide/ [Accessed 20 Feb. 2022].

Kenny, G. (n.d.). Legend movie review & film summary (2015) | Roger Ebert. [online] https://www.rogerebert.com/. Available at: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/legend-2015 [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

Lukaitis, N. (2016). 1920s make-up beauty tutorial: How to get the Great Gatsby look. [online] Marie Claire. Available at: https://www.marieclaire.co.uk/beauty/make-up/1920s-make-up-beauty-tutorial-2273 [Accessed 20 Feb. 2022].

O’Sullivan, K. (2022). The Kray twins’ final days – wife “murder” confession, prison release and deaths. [online] mirror. Available at: https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/kray-twins-final-days-wife-26044202 [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

Script Slug. (n.d.). Legend (2015) Film Script. [online] Available at: https://www.scriptslug.com/script/legend-2015 [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

The Kray Twins Wiki. (n.d.). Frances Shea. [online] Available at: https://thekraytwins.fandom.com/wiki/Frances_Shea [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

thekraytwins.fandom.com. (n.d.). The Kray Twins Wiki. [online] Available at: https://thekraytwins.fandom.com/wiki/The_Kray_Twins_Wiki [Accessed 26 2022].

Wolkoff, J. (2019). Beauty secrets of the ancient Egyptians. [online] CNN Style. Available at: https://edition.cnn.com/style/article/ancient-egypt-beauty-ritual-artsy/index.html [Accessed 20 Feb. 2022].

Zaidi, H. (2021). Who were twins Ronnie and Reggie Kray – featured in ITV’s “Secrets of the Krays”? [online] http://www.nationalworld.com. Available at: https://www.nationalworld.com/culture/television/ronnie-and-reggie-kray-who-were-the-kray-twins-and-what-is-itv-series-secrets-of-the-krays-about-3541322 [Accessed 26 Feb. 2022].

Here are the photos of my final assessment looks, of a male and female from 1950’s Britain.

Assessment 1 – The East End Gangster

Here is the look I created for my male assessment. This look was inspired by the Kray twins, and their organised crime groups.

I chose to create a gangster, as this enabled me to add special effects in to my makeup design.

I used an olive toned foundation, to help represent the long days spent roaming the streets, in the sun. Then, I used a cream contour to add extra definition to the cheekbones and jawline, in order to make my models face appear more masculine.

I think this worked really effectively, but I must remember to blend the foundation right down to the shirt line, as my camera picks up on how much lighter Piper’s neck and chest is, compared to her face.

I didn’t apply mascara, as I didn’t want the look to become too feminine. However, I did comb some brown powder through the brows to make then slightly darker, but made sure I didn’t shape them.

I used spirit gum to apply postiche hair to the sides of the face, creating sideburns.

I had never done this before so was nervous of the outcome, but I am so impressed with the finished look.

Once I had applied all of the hair, I used an eyebrow pencil ,blended with a spoolie, to merge the side burns in to the hair line.

I slicked the hair back using a comb and hair gel, to complete the makeup look.

Overall I am happy with the finish of the hair, however I think I could have done more.

If I did this again, I would use a large barrel curling iron to create a slight wave in the top of the hair.

I used IPA and a Kryolan Supra Colour Palette to create the bruising along the side of the face. I also used eye shadows to help brighten the pigments.

I decided to challenge myself to create a slightly aged bruise, as it includes many more colours. I am so impressed with how this turned out, and how much it added to the overall look.

I also used darker brown eye shadows to create dark eye bags, emphasising the tiring, and stressful lifestyle these men lived.

I created aged scars, along the cheekbone and lip, using a darker foundation shade. This helps to emphasise how horrific the lives of these men could be.

I also added a more recent scar to the bridge of the nose, using ciene wax.

In the overall design this looked great, however I think it would have been much better if I had applied the wax above the lip or on the cheek. As the nose is such a small area to work on, I struggled to blend the edges out flawlessly, as you can see when up close.

Consultation

Below are photos of the completed consultation form for this look.

Assessment 2 – Day Makeup

Here is the look I created for my second period assessment, recreating traditional day makeup, for a woman in 1950’s Britain.

I took inspiration from Francis Shea, the wife of London’s Infamous gangster, Reggie Kray. Actress, Elizabeth Taylor also largely inspired this look.

In the 1950’s it was popular for women to match their eye shadows to their eye colour, or their outfit, as shade ranges expanded.

I chose to match the eye shadow colour to the shirt my model wore, to stick with the tradition. Eye shadows were not available in many different colours or finishes, like they are today, so I found a colour similar to the shirt and blended it all over the eye.

Then, I added black eye liner, creating a thick line along the lash line to help add definition to the eyelashes, and a small cat flick to draw attention to the eyes.

I also added mascara to the top and bottom lashes, to add definition.

Lastly, I filled the brows with a pencil, creating a natural arched shape, and then blended the product using a spoolie.

For the base, I matched Chloe’s skin tone to create a flawless, light coverage finish.

In the 50’s bronzer wasn’t used to shape the face. Instead, women used a darker toned blush along their cheekbones and temples to add warmth and depth in to the base.

Therefore, I used a cream blush to help define the cheekbones, and then set the whole face with translucent powder.

Matte finish was highly popular in this era, as pressed powders came in to circulation.

It was also popular to use matte colours on the lip. As this is a day makeup I added a pale pink matte colour to the lips. I then added vaseline over the top to add shine.

I also chose to add a beauty mark above the lip, using an eyebrow pencil, and I am really pleased with the result.

For the hair, I chose to create a flicked style.

I used a hair straightener to create the flicked ends along the ends of the hair.

While I was straightening the hair, I placed the front sections in heated rollers.

When I had finished the straightening process, I took the rollers out, and created barrel curls in the front sections of the hair.

I have never created this style before, and I am extremely impressed with the end result.

If I did this look again, I would definatley ensure I added more hairspray to tame all the fly away’s at the top and back of the head. I would also need to ensure I hid the hair grips better.

Consultation

Below are photos of the completed consultation form for this look.