In this post I have completed an evaluation of my first look, based on depression.
Make-up
I am so extremely happy with the outcome of this project. I believe I have exceeded my expectations within my work, and have represented my theme extremely well. The look I created was a perfect re creation of my face plan, which further helps emphasise how well this make-up went. I was successful in creating a natural, no make-up make-up base, and using minimal contouring shades helped to really emphasise the lifelessness that I wanted to poetry within this look.
The eye shadow blended really well, and was rounded in to a symmetrical shape, which I am extremely proud of. My lack of use of mascara further helped to amplify the feeling of a heavy, and exhausting sensation, meaning I created the exact look I was aiming for. The bleached brow effect also helped to create further contrast between the light and dark colours, creating a stronger and more dramatic overall finish. I am also really pleased with the way the dark lip bled, crating a rough texture – further emphasizing the symptoms and feelings that arise from this disorder.
I feel the overall effect created by the makeup on the neck and chest was great, however if I was to create this look again I would use a wider range of products, allowing me to create more depth within the prosthetics, as they have got lost underneath the water splatter. I think I would also carry this technique down the arms to give an even more dramatic finish.
Hair
Especially considering this is the second time I have applied a hair cage on a living model, and the fact this case was custom built for someone elses head, I am extremely happy with the results of this hairstyle, I massively overtook my expectations from this design, by completing the hair style so effectively. I used a mixture of gels and spray to slick all of the hair away from the face, and up in to the style, preventing any fly aways. The barbed wire, and trailing material effect just elevated the look to a whole new level. Although the netting can be seen in occasional spaces thought the hair, I am really pleased with how well I managed to blend this in, by covering the cage with netting that was similar to the models hair colour.
Costume
I love the effect that was created by the torn materials used to create this costume., I do however, with I had either dark trousers, or a dark, loose skirt, to also dress the bottom half of my model.
Photography
I am extremely happy with all of the photos we have taken of this look. I think shooting in a range of locations helped to ensure I got the prefect image, and also helped me learn some techniques. We found a range of locations that worked effectively, but I think my favorite images are those of my model leaning again the posts, or posing in front of the brick wall. We did take some in front of a green screen for me to edit, but the lighting was not great causing a green reflection to cast across the models face, meaning the images did not turn out well after editing, so I have decided to leave these out of the process.
Feedback
I received great feedback from my peers, model, photographer, and lecturers, with my main point of improvement noting if I had added a skirt on the bottom half of my model, I could have created a more complete look.
Overall I am extremely happy with the result of this shoot, and feel I have represented my theme, and carried out my designs, very effectively.
In this post I have presented, and explored the ideas behind my final designs.
Although I feel the previous, initial designs, were all capable of effectively representing these disorders, I want to push myself further, to visualise a less literal meaning for each of these subjects, allowing me to be more creative with my looks. I am intending to create an image that will make the audience stop and think about the meaning behind it, therefore leaving a more memorable imprint on their minds.
As previously mentioned, I am planning on creating a series of editorial images, so have created four final designs.
Depression
I am intending to use a look based on depression as the main image of the series, and as my assessment and showcase piece. As depression is one of the most common mental health disorders, and is known by many, I feel this will be one of the most powerful images i can create.
I intend to create a flawless no-makeup-makeup base, as my main inspiration for this unit has come from editorial beuaty. Then, I shall create a dark, graphic eye shadow around the inner corner of the eye, smoking it out to build the idea around the feeling of fading away. Then, as this particular look is based on creative editorial, I will represent this by also creating a dramatic lip. As this is the main focal point of the collection, and my assessment piece, I also intend to use the neck and chest area within my makeup. I will use home made prosthetics to create gashes on the chest, using black water based face paint to give the illusion of blood, while also representing tears, as I intend to apply this so it appears like a water colour spill.
Incorporating some of my newly learned, avante garde hair techniques, I have built a cage to create a tall up do with this look. I am hoping this will build the impression of a heavy, and trapped sensation. I am then also planing to rap barbed wire around the cage to build the idea that physical pain can be felt, even when suffering a mental illness.
For this outcome, I intend to make a home made costume, allowing to to showcase further skill, while also creating the exact effect I am visualising. I intend to combine a mixture of shredded materials, to identify the idea many things can build up, leading to these outcomes.
Body Dysmorphia
The second look I intend on creating is based on the feelings caused by body dysmorphia. many people with this condition have an extremely distorted view of themselves, often ignoring all of the amazing qualities they have, and focusing of their distorted perceptions of negative parts. I intend to present this through my makeup by creating an abstract art inspired look on the face. Using graphic liner, I will outline, and misshape the eyes and mouth, presenting the idea of distortion.
For this look I am intending to keep the hair slicked back, out of the face, allowing to further present the idea these people only focus one one thing, ignoring all of their other qualities. To further build upon this idea, I am planning to use an adorned, dark, prom dress, to show even if all other areas of themselves were extremely glamorous, these people refuse to see it.
For the photography of this look, I plan to use mirrors, to present the idea these people can spend hours looking in the mirror, highlighting flaws in their appearances. I may also use either a smashed mirror, or disco ball, to show how these people may see, or visualise many different versions of themselves.
OCD
Similar to my initial design, this look is also based on the idea that the realities of OCD are far messier, and more complicated than the stereotypes that surround the condition. I plan to first present the idea of a messy, chaotic, and out of control mind, by creating a moheican style.
Then, I will create a flawless make-up base to clearly represent the editorial imagery that hugely inspired my work. Unlike the initial design, I have decide to create a graphic liner around the eye, to stick more to the editorial theme. Because of this, i also intend to create a ‘bleeding’ red lip effect.
I will further represent this idea, by dressing my model in a leather jacket with feather rims, to build on the idea of an uncontrollable mess.
Anxiety
Finally, I intend to create a look based on anxiety. Once again, I am sticking to a more accurate representation of editorial beauty by creating a flawless base makeup, accompanied by a bold graphic eye shadow, yet more simple lip. I will be recreating the Tyre mark mascara technique explored within my post on Abby Roberts, and a black-nude gradient lip. Rather than visualising symptoms, I am aiming to create a look that represents how I think this condition may look, if it were human.
I intend to create finger waves with this design, to build on the idea people with anxiety often feel they are not the ones in control of their thoughts, feelings or lives. I feel finger waves could be made to look like a hand on the head.
I will then finish the look by dressing my model in a leather jacket. I intend to use more aggressive posing within these images to further build the idea this a condition, as a human, rather than a visualization of symptoms.
In this post I have explored my initial hair, makeup and costume designs.
OCD
For my first design, I created a look based around feeling caused by OCD. Unlike the common stereotypes surrounding the neat, and tidiness of those with OCD, OCD is actually commonly described to feel like a chaotic mess in ones head. The repetitive, and unwanted thoughts and behaviors can cause a very overwhelming sensation. In this design i have attempted to create this effect by creating a bold, graphic, and most importantly unsymmetrical graphic liner that will stretch across the whole face, and neck. I intend to accompany this look with a slick back hairstyle, and some form of black, layered costume.
Biploar Disorder
In this design, I intend to create a split face look, in order to represent the dramatic mood swings that can occur for a person with this disorder. I plan to create one side using brightly colored blushes, eye shadows and lipsticks, to create an alive, and happy feel, while the other half will be dull and grey, accompanied with dark under eyes and tears, to represent the lower moods. I am intending to accompany this look with some form of tall, messy hairstyle, and maybe a light coloured top, or dress, covered with a dark, leather jacket, to emphasise the idea of darkness creeping in to the light.
Body Dysmorphia
In this design, I intend to incorporate prosthetics, to create a dramatically emphasized cheek bone. In a bid to represent the unrealistic beauty standards that are created by social media, leading to disorders like this one, I intend to create a glamorous, yet overly exaggerated face. I think I will accompany this make-up with a sleek hairstyle, to keep all the attention on the face.
Depression
In this design, I have represented how depression may literally look. I intend to create a dull, sunken in face, with dark under eyes, and tears, to present the feelings caused by, and effects of depression. I am unsure of what hair style to create with this look, but am planning to use a leather jacket for costume.
Anxiety
Similar to the design above, here I have decided to create a look that represents the literal feelings, and symptoms of this disorder. I plan to create a dull base, with sweat, to present the idea of a panic attack. I will also lighten around the eyes, to make the person appear alert to their surroundings. Once again I intend to dress is look with a leather jacket, and think I may use finger waves in the hair, to represent a darkness creeping over the person.
In this post, I will reflect upon the actions I have taken during the time of this unit, leading to my FMP final outcome.
28/03 – Today my FMP was launched. In class, the brief was presented to us, allowing us to have a group conversation, and have any initial questions answered. This was presented to us before the Easter half term, allowing us time to analyse the brief and think of any questions we may have over the holidays, therefore allowing us to start when we returned to college.
30/03- Today I completed a photo shoot with photographer, Izzy Ferguison, at Solent University. I created an editorial make-up look, based on a series of MAC cosmetics campaign imagery, for one of Izzy’s projects. I was really pleased with how the makeup looked, and received great feed back from Izzy, and the model.
05/04 – Today I finally completed my Unit 11 section on my blog, after having my photos back. I posted the final section, and now am ready to focus on this unit.
06/04 – Today, I brainstormed some ideas, in order to help me decide what theme to choose for my FMP. After considering many topics that mean a lot to me, allowing me to create a more powerful image, I decided basing a look around Mental Heath will be best suited.
08/04 – Today I completed a work experience placement, face painting for a live lambing event, at Wilson Atkinson Farms. I had a great day, and received positive feedback from a large range of parents, children, and other workers at the event. This kind of work experience helps to really build my communication skills, as events like these require me to communicate with a large range of people, with different ages, and ethnicity’s.
11/04 – Today I decided to experiment with presenting the idea that mental health conditions can make one feel like the shell of a person. I presented this idea, by creating a skeleton effect makeup on the face, and neck. However, although I think this make-up is effective, It seems more like a character, rather than representation of mental illness itself. For this reason, I don’t think my audience will necessarily know what my intentions of the look are, therefore the overall finish wont be as effective.
14/04 – Today I began some of my developed research, when looking in to artist; Shawn Cross. As explored in the post about him, Shawn’s Work was the first inspiration I had for creating looks based on Mental Health disorders, so I had always known I wanted to research in to him, and his work.
Furthermore, today I received back the images from the shoot I completed with Izzy on the 30/03. I am so happy with the result of these images, and am extremely impressed with the symmetry I created within this makeup.
17/04 – Today when on social media, I came across some behind the scenes images of a recent photo shoot Jojo Siwa has completed, to advertise her new clothing range. The hairstyle in one of the images was really effective, and I believe it could work well with one of my looks.
At college today, we had Chloe McDonald visit us again, to complete a masterclass on editorial makeup, and postiche making. Firstly, she presented a collection of Editorial images, explaining the difference between fashion, beauty and creative editorials. Then, she explained to us what most directors will expect from an editorial set, before demonstrating how to create a no-makeup-makeup. Then, we had to re-create this look on each other. As there was an odd number of us, me and Erin shared Poppy’s face, hense why there are only photos of one side of her face. I am really pleased with the final result of my make-up, and believe I met the brief well. Chloe complimented my make-up, claiming it helped to give [Poppy] a bright and fresh appearance, without making her look like she was wearing heavy make-up, which is exactly what you need for this kind of creation.
In the afternoon session, Chloe spoke to us about when, and how, postiche is used in the industry. She presented a range of job roles where these techniques may be found, and explained how expensive wigs and postiche can be to buy, and create. After demonstrating how this technique should be correctly done, we all had to try and create our own postiche. After measuring an accurate size mustache, on each others faces, we attached our stencils to the head block. Then, we placed netting over the top, allowing us to weave the hair through. I seemed to pick this knotting technique up very quickly, and could complete it quickly. I was extremely happy with the final outcome of this session and can not wait to finish the piece. Chloe, and my peers all noted how fast I picked this technique up, even calling me a ‘natural’.
18/04 – Today at college I modeled for Erin, but used this time to complete further research. Then, in our theory lesson, we had a production meeting, discussing what we are wanting to create for the showcase, and what actions we must take to execute this effectively.
After receiving the world skills brief, I returned home and created two body plans that could fit the theme ‘its about time’. I wanted to take this theme less literally, so challenged myself to create look that represented the idea ‘ its about time to make a change’ to something. I created body plans based around stopping knife crime, and preventing global warming. Although I believe both looks are effective, I think I am wanting to create the knife crime look, as I fell not many others would have created a look like this, but some may have created a look around global warming, as it is seen a bigger issue.
19/04 – Today I began to build a pintrest board, collecting images of; artwork, hair, makeup, fashion, and quotes, that can support my theme, and hopefully inspire my final piece.
I also created an initial mood board, and presented it as and advertisement for collaborators. Then, I posted this on my social media channels, with the hopes of reaching out to models and photographers. I am intending to work with professional, experienced models and photographers as this will allow me to create a more effective overall finish.
22/04 – After asking the opinions of many people, including family, friends, class mates, and lecturers, I have decided to create the knife crime look for my world skills entry. Today, I created a mood board for this look, and practiced what I am intending to create on the back, in order to ensure I can get the look completed within the given time frame.
23/04 – Today I completed more further research, building on my knowlege, allowing me to create my initial designs.
24/04 – Today, Annemarie from the SIMEX series came to college, delivering a wounds work shop. In a weeks time, we will be attending the SIMEX exercise, to create realistic wounds on mock casualty role players- allowing doctors, nurses, and humanitarian response teams to receive hands on training. Today, we were taught how to create burns with tissue, and liquid latex, adding gelatin cubes for dramatic effect. Then, we were shown how to effectively colour these injuries, making them look as realistic as possible. Considering this was my first time making these wounds, and experimenting with new products, I am really impressed with the final outcomes, and am exited to make more. I received good feedback on my wound placement and coloring, which made me confident I knew what to do next week. I also was extremely impressed with the outcome of my exposed bone injury, and was told it was ‘disgustingly amazing’.
25/04 – Today we completed a second training day with Annmarie, from the SIMEX series. In today’s lesson, we had to show our leadership skills when teaching the first year students some of the techniques we had learned yesterday. In this session, I mainly modeled, while talking the first years though the process. However, I created an effective burn, using latex – applied directly on to the arm, when demonstrating this effect to the first years, and experimented with creating a hypothermia effect, by lightening Erin’s fingertips.
Upon my return home, I created my world skills look, and sent it off for judging. I feel there are many elements that could have been tweaked to have created an overall more dramatic effect, which could have been highlighted if I had practiced the design more. However I feel the theme is clearly presented.
16/04 – Today I completed a work experience, when creating a light, but glamorous make-up for a client, who was having a trail before her son’s wedding in a few weeks. Both the client, and her daughter in law (to be) were extremely happy with the result, and I have been asked to return and complete her make-up for the day. I am so pleased with the overall finish of this look, and am exited to make her up on the day.
27/04 – Today we returned to the Portsmouth Guild hall, to re-create make-up looks on students from Rowner Junior School, in their Final round of DanceLive! One of the children I was responsible for had a last minute hair change. Rather than creating padding, and applying a head band, like last time, I was asked to create an antler effect. I had to think on my feet, and create a look that was both comfortable, and practical, with a limited amount of products, as the client had to move her head a lot. I am so extremely happy with the final result I created, and feel honored to have played such a big part in such a big even for these children.
28/04 – Today, I completed another make-up trial, today for a prom. My client suggested a glamorous, smokey eye, with blue in her water line, to match her dress. She wanted a full coverage, Instagram beauty inspired look. I was extremely happy with the result, as was my client and her family. Although we have since decided to tone down the eyes a bit, after she had tried the dress on with the makeup, she has invited me back to complete the look on her big day, in June.
29/04 – Today, in a visit to Bichester Village, I ensured to analyse how editorial and campaign imagery are used to grab the attention of viewers, in an in-person setting. Unlike the bright and colorful adverts on social media, most of these images were presented on large frameworks, within shop windows, and inside the stores. The large images would catch the viewers eye, and lure them inside to explore more.
02/05 – Today, I completed a hair trial on erin, experementing with techniques to create a finish similar to the one found in the images of Jojo Siwa that had inspired me earlier on.
Initially, I experemnted with creating top knots, similar to the inspiration image, however I felt this did not give a dramtic enough effect.
Then, with Maggie’s help I created a moheican style, which me, Maggie and Erin all agreed was much more effective. We left one side fanned out, and brushed another straight up, allowing me to compare which finish was more effective. I think when representing mental illness, a messier, fanned out finish will represent the issues more effectively.
04/05 – Today I ensured to analyse my issues of vogue, looking for sources of further inspiration, before creating my final designs.
09/05 – Today was the first day of SIMEX. Today, I created a wide range of injuries, consisting of head traumas, burns, broken arms, and fractured ankles, to name a few. I received great feed back from all of the workers, and models, regarding not only my practical work, but client communication too.
10/05 – Today, I completed some more further research, and created lists to ensure I had all of the products and equipment I needed for my final looks. I also heard back from work skills, and am delighted to say i made it to the next round. However, I unfortunately am unable to attend.
11/05 – Today was the third day of SIMEX. In today’s exercise, we has less injuries, but has to make many people up with dust, and dirt powders, so they appeared like refugees, and victims of an earth quake. We also had the opportunity to take part in the role-playing today, where me and Erin had to make each other up, and role-play car crash victims.
15/05 – I dedicated todays lesson to practicing my hair techiques. Although I do not find finger waves particulary easy, I am set on creating them within one of my looks, as I feel it would create a great effect. Therefore, I repreatedly practiced this technique today, crating a more effective finish every time, and building my confidence.
I also practiced creating the hair cage today. As seen in these images, the hair did not quite cover the cage, and the cage was very visible. However, I have designed this cage to be used on light hair, and the only reason it was so obviously viable is because the head block has dark hair.
Additionally, I practiced my body dysmorphia design, and developed upon it to decide which was more effective. After considering all options, and asking for feedback, I have decided the first image is the most effective, as the others seem softer, which looses the message of the design.
16/05 – In today’s lesson, I modeled for Chloe, which allowed me time to complete more of my coursework. I also attended a green screening session with Ingrid, as I wanted to learn this technique, allowing me to potentially experiment with it in my final images.
17/05 – Today, I completed more research and coursework, while also watching multiple of the documentaries featured on SKY’s home page, for mental health awareness week.
21/05 – Today, one day before I plan to complete my assessment, my model informed me she was now unable to attend tomorrows shoot. Although this was a frustrating situation, I ensured to handle this calmly, and professionally, and eventually managed to source another model, allowing me to go ahead with tomorrows shoot.
22/05 – Today I completed my main look, for my in college assessment. This was my look based on depression. I am extremely happy with the outcome, and think my message is very clear and effective. I am hoping the images I create leave a meaningful image in my viewers head.
Once we had completed and photographed the first look, I then completed my body dysmorphia look. I used a dress, and multiple props from collages theatre department, to assist with this shoot, and am so exited to see the outcome.
23/05 – Today, I received back the final images from yesterdays first shoot. the images were so much better than I ever expected, and give such a powerful message. However, unfortunately the images from the second shoot were lost. Although I am extremely upset as I never got to even preview these images, I once again ensured to handle this situation professionally. After some consideration I decided I would re-shoot this look at home.
31/05 – Today, I completed my other two photo shoots, while also re-shooting the Body dysmorphia images. I am really pleased with the outcomes of the looks, however I believe both the look, and images from today’s body dysmophia shoot will not compare to the quality of the look and images that were lost, as I did not have access to a photography studio, the dress, or the props for this occasion.
04/06 – I have today received the final images from my last photo-shoot, allowing me to complete my evaluations and hand in my blog.
As part of my research I decided to create a survey on mental health, posting it on my social medias to reach as many people as possible. I’ve created a survey of 26 questions, and overall received 45 responses. Below I have broken down each question and all of the responses I received, explaining how each helps aid my research.
The first question I asked was to collect some information on the statistics of mental health conditions. Although they are becoming more common, I did not expect that 75% of the people that answered my survey would have been diagnosed with some form of mental health condition.
Question two
To gain further insight into the answers from the first question, I created a multiple-choice answer listing some of the most common mental health disorders. My answers concluded that anxiety was the most common among the people that filled out my survey, followed by depression, PTSD, OCD and anorexia. None of the people that filled my survey had been diagnosed with bipolar, however six people voted for other. These people detailed they had struggles with health anxiety, histrionic, ODD, EUPD, abnormal depression and Tryanophobia.
As explored in one of my previous posts, health anxiety is a specific kind of anxiety that is based around a fear of a health condition or complication. Histrionic is a personality disorder commonly referred to as dramatic personality disorder, which consists of a pattern of exaggerated emotional and attention seeking behaviors. ODD stands for oppositional defiant disorder. This disorder is most common in children, who often show extreme uncooperative, defiant and hostile behaviors towards peers such as their parents, teachers or other figures of authority. EUPD stands for emotionally unstable personality disorder, also known as borderline personality disorder. This disorder is a condition which affects how you think, feel and interact with others, and can cause emotional instability, upsetting thoughts, and rash decision making. Additionally abnormal depression is a sub type of major depressive disorder, which involves extremely worsened and specific symptoms such as increased appetite, weight gain, excessive sleepiness and extreme fatigue or moods that are strongly reactive to certain environmental circumstances. Finally Tryanophobia is an extreme fear of medical procedures that involve needles. This is similar to a general fear of needles, pins or sharp objects, however people of this disorder fear them in specific, medical settings.
However, I was not surprised to see that 17 of the respondents had claimed to have been diagnosed with a combination of two or more mental health disorders. The most common pairing being depression and anxiety. I also noted that with disorders such as OCD or PTSD, respondents often had depression and/or anxiety, likely as a symptom of their larger disorder.
Question three
I was not surprised to learn that only three of the 45 respondents did not know of anyone else that had been diagnosed with a mental health condition. Especially since the rise of mental health disorders since Covid, I was expecting this answer to have been a very large number.
Question four
Once again, anxiety was the most common disorder, followed by depression, OCD, bipolar, PTSD, anorexia, and lastly one vote for other which detailed a diagnosis of DID.
DID, also known as dissociative identity disorder, was previously referred to as multiple personality disorder. Someone with this condition may feel uncertain about their identity and who they are, which may lead to them feeling the presence of multiple identities, each with their own names, voices, origins, and mannerisms.
Question five
For this question, I listed words commonly used to describe mental illnesses, and created a multiple choice answer. I was quite surprised to learn no one has ever used the words stabbing, or stinging pains to describe their symptoms, however was not surprised to learn Isolating, exhausting and suffocating were the top three answers. These were followed by hopeless, numb, heavy, debilitating, rejected, and lastly terror.
Question six
When then asking the respondents how they may describe their symptoms, in their own words, I was not surprised that many of the respondents used a combination of the three most popular words from the previous question. Many also explained they feel like a burden, like they ruin their time with other people, and are an inconvenience for those around them.
Question Seven
Knowing how hard it can be to reach out, and how common it is for people to suffer in silence, I was quite surprised to learn that only one of the 45 respondents hadn’t had any experience with any of the mental health organisations I had listed. From the other 44 respondents, over half had experiences with the NHS, followed by nine people having experience with the Mind charity, eight with Samaritans, seven with young minds, six with Childline, five with I talk, two with anxiety UK, one with refuge, and one with public health England. Seven of the respondents chose the other response, naming the moving on project, no limits, shout, the mix, private therapy, and multiple mentions of cahms.
I noted many of the respondents that experiences with the NHS, had also chose one or multiple other charities. This helps to build the idea, mentioned in one of my previous posts, that the NHS often refers individuals to other organisations rather than dealing with the issues themselves.
Question Eight
Out of the 45 responses above, only 10 people claim their experience with these organisations was positive, while only four say the overall experience was solely negative, and the majority of 18 respondents said they had a mixed response.
Question Nine
In this question I asked the respondents to detail the answer to the question above. Many people said that negative experiences were due to long waiting lists, some even being told they would have to wait upwards of three years. Another popular response was many people have been told they were too young to be feeling what they were feeling, and they were bound to grow out of it soon – as you can imagine, this could probably be very belittling, and therfore most likely worsen the persons condition. Some people also mentioned they believe the NHS do try their best to help, but they have more people needing help than what they can cope with, so the help given is often rushed and not enough. I can agree with this, as shown in the responses prior, it seems to be a common occurrence that the NHS refer patients to other organisations, as they do not have the time and resources to help on their own.
Many of the mixed responses claimed that some people really helped while some organisations just brushed them under the rug. Another explained the person they were seeing tried their best to help but ended up just triggering the patients symptoms. Once again many people said they believe these organisations try their best but have so many people to help, the process ends up so rushed that it’s not overall very helpful
However, for those that stated they had a positive experience, many explain they had understanding counselors, who advised great coping strategies, and made the conditions easily understandable. One person explained it was helpful having someone to contradict to the negative thoughts and ask what evidence they had to support them, as this made the patient realise it was just a thought, not a reality. Another claimed it was helpful to just have someone there to listen, even if they didn’t really do much to help, as having someone to listen let them get all of their frustrations out and lift a weight of their shoulders.
Question ten
In this question I asked if anyone believed they had any other mental health conditions that had not been diagnosed. I was not surprised when almost half of the respondents answered yes to this question. After learning how common is for people to suffer in silence, it really wasn’t a shock to me when 20 people chose yes.
Question eleven
To detail the response above, I next asked the respondents why they think they had not been diagnosed. As mentioned above, I know it is fairly common for people to suffer in silence as many are ashamed of their feelings, or are scared to make their suspicions a reality. This was proven when many people explained that they had not made it round to contacting a doctor, have been scared to speak about it, or are scared that a diagnosis may close doors for their futures. Many people Also described instances of being dismissed in the past which had put them off of returning. Some people also mentioned they had previously been told they were too young, that multiple doctors hadn’t agreed on one diagnosis, or they didn’t want the hassle of going through the long process. Finally, someone mentioned they do not need a diagnosis to see that it is the issue, and therefore feel they would be wasting the doctors time if they were to make an appointment.
Question twelve
When asking the respondents if they believe they have ever been missed diagnosed, I was surprised to learn only eight of the people believe that they have,while twenty nine responded no.
Question thirteen
When asking my respondents whether they believed mental health had a positive representation in the media, I was not surprised that the majority, 30 respondents, voted no, and only 13 voted yes, while 5 voted mixed.
Question fourteen
When asking my respondents to explain their previous answer, many people included the fact that the media coverage surrounding social media has drastically improved within the more recent years. People also explained they believe that the UK is one of the most positive country’s regarding media surrounding this topic, also explaining there is now plenty of information regarding what one can do to help someone they know who is struggling, as there are many advocates in the media now to help share important messages on how and where to get help.
However, those that answered no, also supported the idea that other countries have a much more negative representation than in the UK. Many also explored the topic that many people who talk about mental health in the media are often branded weak, excuse makers or attention seekers. People also spoke about the idea that mental health is glorified or villainised within mainstream media, and spoke about how the information that is shared could be more accurate, rather than creating negative stigmas around people who struggle. People also explored how people can post triggering content without realising, further supporting the idea that there is inaccurate and unrealistic information being fed to the public, as well as the idea that no one steps in until it’s too late when it comes to a celebrity opening up about their mental health.
Question fifteen
When asked whether the respondents believed social media has an overall positive effect on one’s mental health, I was not surprised when only six of the respondents answered yes. As explored in one of my previous posts, although it has its good points, I believe social media is one of the darkest places for someone suffering with mental health issues.
Question sixteen
When asked to support their previous answer, many people spoke about the fact that there is a huge market for negative, dark and triggering content such as Gore and crime related content. Similar to what is referred to as the dark web, and its contents, graphic videos and images are now being shared openly, and often as a claim to fame. Additionally the topics of unrealistic standards, an unrealistic reality, and out of balance atmosphere, was explored, while talking more specifically about content that encourages body insecurity and a dissatisfaction towards a persons individual achievements. People also spoke about the dark loop of being reliant on our phones, while exploring the idea that technology distorts the real world, and glorifies horrific and difficult subjects.
Whereas, those who chose yes explored the idea that certain social media channels are trying to create a positive space around mental health and its surrounding topics, sharing content to support and help those suffering. The idea that social media is used as a distraction for one struggles, as well as a positive place to build communities and support those we love, was also explored
Question seventeen
When asking my respondents why they thought there was such a negative stigma around mental health conditions and topics relating to the issue, many of the responses were very similar.
Most of the responses mentioned something about a lack of education, causing misinformation to be spread, which in turn leads to ignorance and fear mongering. Many people mentioned how people feel ashamed to talk or reach out, so therefore hide their feelings, making it seem less of a reality for certain individuals. Some others mentioned how this is only recently becoming a more positive topic, so many people have not yet adapted to the new way. I also thought one answer in specific was quite interesting as the respondent mentioned mental health is seen as a one size fits all issue, rather than facing the realities of how different one condition can be to each person. Overall many people agree that there is an issue that not many people want to admit is real.
Question eighteen
When asked whether they thought more should be done to raise awareness, and break stigmas around the subject, 43 people responded yes, leaving only one respondent to choose no, it is fine as it is. Thankfully, option that it was an unnecessary topic was not chosen by anybody.
Question Nineteen
When asked whether they believed the idea that mental health conditions are Demons tormenting a person, was a good representation of how these conditions may feel, I was surprised that twenty eight people agreed, and only thirteen didn’t. Although I personally believe this is an accurate representation of how these conditions can sometimes feel, I was not expecting many people to agree.
Question twenty
When asked which colours one may associate with mental health struggles, I was not surprised to learn that black was the most popular colour with 33 votes, closely followed by grey with 22 votes, red with 15, blue with eight, white with seven, chrome with three and purple with two.
Question twenty one
In a similar question, when asked what products and materials one may associate with mental health struggles, I was not surprised that barbed wire was the most popular option with thirty one votes, tying with the idea of a heavy sensation. Crying was the next popular with twenty seven votes, followed by rope with twenty two, torn material with fifteen, crying blood with fourteen, eight for stinging, dust, and stone, seven for strangulation and cobwebs, six for fabric, five for studs and spikes, and one for leather and silk.
Question twenty two
When asked whether the respondents believed make up, hair and fashion could be used to create looks that portray important messages, and make positive changes, twenty three people responded yes, while nineteen responded potentially and only two responded no.
As a creative artist this surprised me as I know that not many people think of make up as a form of art, they just picture the glamorous make up that can be seen within the mainstream media.
Question twenty three
When asked why they answered the previous question in the way that they did, many people explained that using good creativity within a look can help execute a look really well and give an indication into how it may feel to experience mental health symptoms. Many people claimed make up and fashion were good forms of expression, and are a great way to portray feelings and emotions. Therefore, if these works were published they could be extremely powerful, as their image will be memorable, and therefore could help to raise awareness.
However a few people believed that academic writing could portray this message better, disagreeing with the idea that make up and fashion can help give an audience a better perspective. Another person explained they feel there are already too many negative connotations around make up being used to mask peoples imperfections, and therefore it may be insensitive to use this medium to portray mental health conditions.
However, I agree that using make up and fashion to create a dramatic statement will help people stop and look, and create a meaningful and memorable image in their minds.
Question twenty four
When asked if people had already seen any examples of this work , Only ten people answered yes, wile the other thirty four answered no. Considering the majority of people agreed that these mediums could be used in this way, on question above, I was surprised that not many people had actually seen it done. I believed that maybe they were only agreeing with the statement in the previous question if they had seen previous examples.
Question twenty five
When asked where people had seen this work before, many people mentioned seeing photographs of people screaming into broken glass. I really like this idea, and feel it could really help to represent a mental health disorder. Many people also mentioned online influences representing conditions within make up looks, on sites such as Instagram and TikTok. Another respondent mentioned seeing a similar story with an art in motion, and another explained that they think make up and fashion is a great way to communicate emotions and has seen it in plenty of scenarios.
Question twenty six
In my final question, I asked my respondents if they could recommend any sources, for me to explore during my research.
A few people mentioned looking into artists that paint on canvas, rather than fellow make up artists. Obviously the respondent wasn’t aware of what I had already completed, but I had decided in the early stages of this unit, that I wanted to look into artists, as many influencers and make up artists have created glamorous versions of these looks, and I am wanting to go dark in order to portrey how these conditions can truly feel.
Others mentioned a range of influences, from beauty and fashion accounts, to mental health support accounts, in order for me to gain an insight into the day-to-day struggles of those of certain conditions, and to get make up inspiration. Another mentioned exploring wall art, poetry, a book named the Little book of colour, interviews, and statistics. Finally, one person mentioned a series they had seen of people looking through different colour lens glasses, exploring the idea that people with these conditions see life differently. I really like this idea and will definitely ensure to look in to all of the sources mentioned above during my research process.
In this post I will explore health and safety considerations that must be taken for any make up appointment, as well as considerations specific to this unit.
I have created a poster for each section, I will then write a brief description underneath.
General
This poster outlined some of the health and safety considerations that have to be taken in a salon, as well as many other workplaces.
Firstly, COSHH stands for control of substances hazardous health. This is a law that requires employers to train their workers on how to effectively and safely use, store and dispose of any products that could potentially cause harm. This regulation requires people to understand the different forms of waste disposal, and requires all environments to have a COSHH cupboard. A COSHH cupboard as a large metal cupboard, created to store these products, it should be located away from direct sunlight and out of the public eye. Furthermore, the cupboard should be locked at all times, to ensure these products do not get into the wrong hands.
PAT Testing, also known as portable appliance testing, is a test that is carried out by a qualified individual or professional firm, to ensure all electrical equipment is safe to use. It should be carried out by a professional every at least six months, however each use in between should be accompanied with a visual check to ensure there is no wear and tear damage.
Personal protective equipment is used to protect oneself and their belongings. In a salon environment, gowns and capes are often used to protect the clothing of staff and clients, while masks and visors may be worn to prevent the inhalation of certain products, and gloves are often worn to prevent contact dermatitis.
Additionally, all staff should be aware of the fire evacuation plan. Employers are required to have a clearly laid out fire evacuation plan, that details information on where fire exits can be found, where fire blankets and extinguishers are kept, and clear instructions for a fire assembly point. It is essential all fire exits are always clear, and accessible, as you never know when an incident may strike.
Furthermore, the data protection act is in place to ensure the safe handling and storage of personal and confidential information. In a salon setting this could include consultation cards, and personal client details such as names, addresses and telephone numbers. Is vital that a business has a secure online system to store this information, however it is also important that paper copies are kept in a locked storage cabinet in case there is any breaches online. In the case of any breach the business is responsible for informing the data protection agency, and contacting any clients whose information may have been leaked or compromised.
Finally, all staff must be aware of who to contact in an emergency. Not only should they have access to a telephone in order to call for help, they must be aware of who the health and safety, and first aid offices are, know where the accident book is and how to record any incidents, where a first aid kit is, and most importantly must be first aid trained. Ensuring all of your staff of first-aid trained helps to minimise the damage and severity of any incident.
Personal hygiene
Working as a make up artist, or in fact in any role, keeping up with personal hygiene is vitally important.
Firstly, it is important that nails are kept at a reasonable length, and must be clean and tidy. Hair and make up artists must ensure they always have a nail file on them in order to even out the surface of the nail if they happen to get any rough texture, as leaving it could potentially hurt a client. Furthermore it is important that acrylic or painted nails are kept clean and must not have chips, as chips in Polish can harbor bacteria which could heighten the risk of cross contamination.
Additionally, it is important to wear a clean, ironed uniform every day in order to look your best professional self. Anything worn must meet salon standards, and must be fitted correctly. It is important that uniform is loose rather than restrictive, as restrictive materials could cause discomfort and harm.
Furthermore, it is important that staff smell pleasant. Especially for those who smoke, it is important to always have spray and some form of breath freshener on hand in order to make sure you are fresh before each client. However in the same sense, you must not give off any overpowering odor in general, whether that be positive or negative. Especially as some people may have slight allergies to perfumed products, you must also ensure you do not use too much.
As for any role, it is vital you keep in top of showering and cleaning your teeth to further prevent any bad odor. Washing your hair often is important, as this will help keep your hair looking clean and healthy. Especially when working in a beauty role, it is also important to keep on top of appointments if you have coloured hair, as you can look unprofessional if you have messy or grown out hair colours. Furthermore long hair must always be tied up to prevent any accidents, or irritation from the hair getting in your face.
Finally, it is really important to keep on top of your hand hygiene. In order to prevent cross contamination, and make your client feel comfortable it is important that you wash your hands thoroughly before and after each client. Furthermore you must either wash or sanitize your hands throughout the appointment, and in front of your client, so they are aware that you are on top of this.
Work space
I created this poster to detail consideration specific to a salon environment.
Firstly, in order to prevent cross contamination, it is vital to thoroughly clean all equipment, and surfaces, in between each client. Everything used, from mirrors to chairs, must be cleaned down using antibacterial products. It is also important to clean the floor, and any products that may have got excessively messy during the makeup application process.
To further support this, and make the cleaning process a bit quicker, it is really important to lay couch roll or towels across surfaces that have products laid out on them. This will prevent any damage to the surfaces from spillages.
Additionally, it is really important to neatly lay all products out on a surface rather than reaching into a bag or case. Not only does this make the make up application process quicker and easier for the artist, it insures the client is aware of every step. It is also vital all products are labelled to prevent any mix up.
Just like all other equipment, brushes must be cleaned before and after each client. Furthermore an artist should have a separate pot for clean and dirty brushes. This is because, if all of the brushes were stored in one pot, they would all have to be cleaned, even the ones that weren’t used. Because cross contamination may still occur if a clean brush had come in to contact with a used one.
Furthermore, chair height is one of the most important factors when considering health and safety for a make up set up. Although client comfort is also necessary, the chair must be set at a height that is suitable for the artist. This should be done so the artist does not have to bend over to reach the client, as doing so could cause a severe back strain injury.
Finally, all staff must ensure to visually check all equipment before and after each use to ensure there is no wear in tear damage. This is specifically important for electrical and/or metal equipment, as damaged equipment could cause severe harm if used on a client. It is also important that staff know how to safely dispose of these products
Client consultation
A client consultation must take place to ensure all contra-indications are highlighted, to identify the goals of the final look, and to lower the risk of contra-actions taking place.
It is vitally important that a client is honest during their consultation. They must remember all of this information is confidential and will not be shared with anybody else, and the professional will not judge, they are are just here to help and advise on certain issues. Lying on a consultation form could potentially lead to dangerous complications during, or after the treatment.
Patch testing happens to lower the risk of contra-actions. Unlike contra-indications, which are conditions that exist before an appointment, contra actions are usually the result of a reaction to a product during, or after a treatment. Completing a skin test of this product before the appointment allows time to highlight whether it may be a problem, creating time to experiment with alternative products.
Additionally, certain medical conditions such as; Bell’s palsy and cancers, may require medical consent for certain treatments. Completing a consultation allows an artist to identify these issues, allowing the client time to collect this evidence before their appointment.
As previously mentioned, contra-indications are conditions or factors that exist before a treatment, that may restrict or prevent it. Anxieties, skin conditions, and allergies are among some of the issues that may fall under this bracket. This may completely prevent a treatment, or require extra time to consider alternative products or methods that may work around these issues.
Finally, a consultation allows you to sit down and have a conversation with a client about exactly what they want. In this appointment they can show you reference images, and talk to you about factors that may affect the make up for example location, photography, outfit, temperature etc. Collecting this information will allow you to create the most accurate outcome, therefore leading to a happy client.
Salon safety
Finally, I created this poster as a more specific salon safety presentation.
Although this may seem self-explanatory, in a salon environment it can be easy for products to be placed in potentially dangerous places. It is vitally important that all fire exits are always kept clear, as you never know when you may need to use them.
Furthermore, you must ensure that electrical equipment is always kept away from water. It is important to have a mop or towel to hand at all times in order to wipe any water spillage away. It is also extremely important to not leave trailing wires across the salon floor as this could lead to trips and falls, similar to what may happen if you were to leave puddles of water, or piles of hair on the floor.
Additionally it is vital all staff know exactly where all fire extinguishers and blankets are kept in case of a fire, however they must also be aware of the fire evacuation plans in case the fire cannot be controlled.
All staff must be aware of the correct waste disposal methods for each product. Especially in a salon environment, where there is a mixture of hazardous, recyclable, sharp, and electrical waste to name a few, all staff must be aware of how and where to dispose of each of these Products.
As previously described, Pat testing is important as it insures all electrical equipment is safe to use. It must be carried out by a licensed professional or firm every six months, and must also be visually checked by staff before, and after every use, in between these tests.
Finally, a COSHH cupboard must be stored in a space away from sunlight, and out of view of the public eye. Even if you’re planning to go straight back into it, this cupboard must always be kept locked to ensure the products do not get into the hands of people who are not aware of how to safely use them. A COSHH cupboard, is metal and fireproof, preventing the worsening of a fire in an emergency situation.
Unit 12 Considerations
As well as all considerations listed above, each look comes with its own specific considerations.
For my FMP, one of the most important considerations I had to make was based around my hair cage, and accessories created for the look inspired by depression. When creating a hair cage, you must ensure to measure your models head. This allows you to create a custom size and shape, to ensure it fits your model comfortably. After using wire to make the cage, you must cover it in netting, preventing any injury to the client, from the cage. Furthermore, when securing the cage you must constantly talk to your client, ensuring they are comfortable, and the cage is not to heavy.
Additionally, for my look, I decided to adorn my cage with barbed wire. When initially searching for prop wire, I decided to opt for the real thing, as it gave the most dramatic effect. After considering multiple ways of covering the sharp edges, I settled on using a hot glue gun to dip the edges. This worked really effectively, as it kept me and the model safe, but also could not be seen from a distance, or on camera. I also ensured to wear gloves when handling the barbed wire, in case the glue happened to fall off.
Furthermore, when creating costumes for my looks, I had to collect information about my models sizing, to ensure all clothing fit properly, and was not uncomfortable or restrictive. When working with a client or model their comfort should be your first priority.
Additionally, as I am planning to use both the photography studio, and outside locations for this shoot, I must ensure to work in all of these areas safely. When outside I must ensure there are no hazards around us, when shooting. I also must ensure to use the studios safely, for example not leaving trailing wires, or putting lights close to any materials that may catch fire if they become hot.
Finally, just like any other look, I had to complete a consultation form before each look in order to ensure my client has no contra-indications that may prevent or restrict the treatment, as well as allowing me time to inform them of the look we will be creating, and lower the risk of any contra actions. Where using any products that are likely to cause a reaction, I was sure to patch test my client between 24 and 48 hours prior to their appointment.
Just like most fashion and beauty trends, many hairstyles of the day are just modern re-creations of looks from the past. Below, I have explored the historical contexts of four hairstyles I would like to use within my Image series.
Hair Cages
During the 18th century, powdered wigs were very popular amongst both men and women, a large change from the ideal bald look that was popular during the 17th century. By the end of this period women became very competitive over their looks, and would go to great lengths to out do each other. This lead to many women experimenting, by creating all kinds of shapes and heights with their wigs, even going so far as adding bird cages -with living birds inside- in to their hair pieces.
Even though this already sounds like a fantastical story in itself, the fact this idea is believed to have risen from a rat problem makes the story even better. When rats took over the cities during this period, it is believed they began burrowing in the warmth of these tall wigs at night. To prevent this from happening, it is believed women created wig cages to fill the inside of the space, crafting a barrier to prevent the rats nesting inside.
Although a practical technique at the time of invention, wig cages are now often used within creative editorial pieces to create over the top, avante garde looks. They are also often used within theatre and TV performances when referring to historical figures.
Finger Waves
The term finger waves is used to describe a method of hair setting, used to create waves and curls. This style first became popular during the 1920’s and early 1930’s, before rising to popularity throughout North America and Europe, once again in the late 1990’s.
Silver screen actresses such as Josaphine Baker and Esther Philips have since been credited for making this style popular. Josephine Baker’s stylist, Antoine Cierplikowski has also been named the first person to create this popular style.
As implied by the name, finger waves are created using the fingers, along with a comb, on wet hair. However, after the invention of the heated curling iron, a very similar style known as the marcel wave became more popular, as this look was quicker and easier to achieve, and had a longer lasting effect.
Since their appearance in a Marc Jacobs, New York Fashion Week, show in 2016, the style has become popular once again, within editorial beauty, and celebrity glamour.
Mohican
Mohican is a term used to describe a hair style where all of the head, except for a strip down the centre stretching from forehead to nape, is shaved. This style is typically worn stiffened, or erect in spikes.
Named after the people of the Mohawk Nation, a North American Indiginous group who originally spored the style, the look first rose to popularity during the media after the release of the popular 1939 film, Drums along the Mohawk.
Later on, during the 1970’s punk revolution, the style became popular again, amongst men and women who followed this cause. The punk rock movement was one of culture, and music, and its followers were keen to rebel against the current societal norms, and create their own subcultures. They represented these beliefs in their appearances, by sporting unusual hair, makeup, and outfit choices.
This hairstyle in particular was chosen to be worn as it was very extraordinary, therefore often causing a response of displeasure and disgust among the ‘common’ person. Therefore the followers of the punk rock movement were able to create the desired effect, while also channelling a message of authenticity within a fake world.
Today, many celebrities, influencers and musicians use this hairstyle as a way to make a nod of appreciation towards their punk rock idols. The style is also commonly seen within creative editorial looks, or used to create and symbolise certain kinds of characters within theatre, film and TV.
Slick back
Although fairly simple, and not necessarily linked to any particular period within history, this style is the current favourite within editorial beauty. Although its forms can vary, a sleek pony tail or bun is the current go to when creating make-up for campaign imagery.
As I am wanting to take large inspiration from editorial imagery, I think using this style for at least one of my looks will help really covey my ideas, and sources of inspiration within my work. Furthermore, creating a more simple hairstyle will keep all of a viewers attention on the make-up its self. Therefore, I think this is a clever consideration as the other styles I intend to use are very dramatic, which will likely pull some attention away from the make-up.
Furthermore, upon considering which look this would be best for, I think creating a look that draws all attention to the face will be a great choice when creating my body dysmorphic disorder piece. This will help to re-iterate the idea that when you see a flaw in yourself, you fail to recognise any other great qualities you may have.
After considering how I may want to represent body dysmorphic disorder, I felt a powerful way to identify this illness was to explore the feeling of distortion, and not recognising oneself. I feel a good way to create this within makeup would be to create some kind of distortion on the face, based around abstract art. Although I could use prosthetics to create a more literal image, I want my work to make the viewer stop, and think about how these conditions may make a person feel.
One of the most famous abstract portrait artists in history is Pablo Picasso. Born in Malaga, Spain, on the 25th October 1881, Pablo dedicated more than 80 years of his life to his art, before passing at 91 years old, on the 8th April 1973. Although during his lifetime he had two marriages, and four children, Pablo completely devoted his life to his art work.
Hugely influenced by Art icons Vincent Van Gough, and Paul Cezanne, he continuously demonstrated his passion for art throughout his works. This, in turn, contributed significantly to the whole development of art within the 20th century, notably through his invention of cubism.
Today, he is recognised as one of the most important artists from the 20th century, and unlike many other historical painters, he was just as famous in his lifetime as he has been since his passing. Before his death, Picasso’s net worth was estimated at around $100-250 million dollars, making him probably one of the richest men of his day.
Woman weeping
Many of his portraits were made of women, most famously a piece named ‘woman weeping’. Although the previously mentioned piece is the one he is most recognised for, another hugely famous piece of his work is named ‘Bust De Femme’. The piece is one of his most valuable, with an estimated value of around $130 million.
Buste de femme
I will use the images above to help inspire my body dysmorphia makeup design. The extremely distorted effect in these images create a great illusion, so I intend to use similar techniques within my design.
I have followed Shawn Cross on social media for a long time, and have often wanted to create a make-up look, based on his inktober illness series. When considering what to base my FMP on, his works were one of the first things that came to my mind, inevitably inspiring me to base this project on depictions of Mental Heath disorders.
Shawn Cross is a professional artist from Ohio, who refers to himself as a ‘dark artist’. He has worked, over the past nine years, as an independent artist, and artist for the web-comic series Cyanide and Happiness, as well as being names co-owner and artist for Ohio based lifestyle brand; Any means necessary clothing.
Shawn rose to popularity when partaking in the annual inktober art series, in 2016. During this time, he crated a series he named inktober illness, drawing depictions of mental health disorders, as demons. Shawn credits this series for altering his art direction, to focus more on work that helps create conversations around important topics such as mental health.
On his website, Shawn claims creating this series really helped him grow as an artist, which in turn helped to grow his fan base to a world wild scale. He is now known for connecting with those who relate to his work, as many feels it gives them a voice they wouldn’t have otherwise.
As a person with a medical background, from a career as an ER nurse, Shawn used his advantage to research in to specific case studies, and look in to a range of online resources in order to create the most accurate representation of each piece/illness he put together. He claims his biggest struggle was being able to accurately identify an illness in a single image, as he is fully aware of the fact that these illnesses, their symptoms, and severity differ from person to person. He was sure to make it known that he has to chose carefully when creating these ‘monsters’ in order to make them identifiable, but apologies to anyone who felt they could not relate.
This series has become so popular, that not only has Shawn re-created each piece multiple times, in what he feels is a more accurate way, he has expanded the collection, and also now sells multiple pieces of this artwork, and has even turned the series in to a book. Although I hoped to purchase this book, I did not manage to in time for my FMP research, however found a digital version online, allowing me to gain further insight in to this art collection.
I believe the images he has created within the collection are extremely powerful, and am keen to create a similar effect within my designs. His use of dark shading and harsh lines helped to truly emphasize this fact, so I will ensure to use these techniques within my looks.
Euphoria, an American adaption of an Israeli show under the same name, is a HBO series first released in 2019. The series follows a group of teens in a fictional village known as ‘East Highland’ which is set in California. These teens are shown to navigate through life, trying to find hope while balancing the effects of topics such as love, loss and addiction, in a world full of pain, drugs, sexualisation, trauma, betrayal and social media.
Each one of its characters has their own struggles with one, or more of the issues listed above. I personally feel, although some scenes are likely dramatised for entertainment purposes, that Euphoria deserves immense credit for the way it effectively explores Mental Heath, and its surrounding issues, in a raw form. The show also highlights the effects each of these issues can have on the family, friends, support workers and peers around those suffering, not just the person themselves.
The show is narrated by main character Rue, but follows the lives of her, her family, and the people in her school. Not only does the show itself explore mental health topics that were extremely useful within my research, but I also believe characters; Maddie Perez, and Kat Hernandez, can have a huge influence on my hair, makeup, and costume choices. Both of these characters could fit within a grunge theme, with Maddie embracing dark femininity, and Kat loving all things alternative.
Maddie Perez
Played by Alexa Demie, Maddie Perez is a main character throughout the two current seasons of Euphoria. Her character is most recognised for having an on-off, toxic relationship with her boyfriend Nate Jacobs – who is shown to have many troubles of his own.
From a young age, Maddie was known to have competed in many beauty pageants, and was hugely successful due to her incredibly high levels of self confidence. However, after her pageant coach was arrested, and labelled a child molester, Maddie’s mum (understandably) made her quit. For a long time, Maddie resented her mother for this, as she felt she had no other option for her future. However, after a short while, Maddie found a love for just doing nothing.
After watching the 1995 film, Casino, Maddie began to idolise its main character Ginger Mckenna – a rich showgirl who used her looks to manipulate men in to supporting her wealth. Before long, she made the decision to study rich women, in order to become one herself, rather than waiting on them like her mother (a beautician) or being stuck in a relationship ‘with no love’ like her mother and father’s.
However, her idealisation of rich women lead to her convincing her boyfriend, Nate, to buy her expensive gifts, in return for -mainly sexual- favors. This in turn made Nate feel extremely powerful. However, Maddie ended up falling hopelessly in love with Nate, getting herself trapped in a toxic cycle of baring the weight of his emotions. Eventually their relationship became borderline abusive, but Maddie still felt she could not leave, as she loved him.
Soon after this began, Maddie became obsessed with objectifying herself in return for money, experiences and expensive gifts. She went to such extreme lengths that she even watched pornography videos, not for pleasure, just to study professionals and learn new techniques. The lengths Maddie’s character is willing to travel, in order to feel some kind of affection and empowerment, helps to really emphasise the harsh realities of living with mental health disorders.
Eventually, their relationship grew so toxic that every day Maddie was scared Nate would hurt her, but no matter how hard she tried she could not stop loving him. Which is funny, because her character is presented as one with no filter, who is stubborn and independent, and who projects her hurt on to others.
The images above, and below help to support my previously mentioned idea, that Maddie’s representation of dark femininity within her hair, makeup and fashion style could really help to inspire my work. The reoccurring creation of a dark, yet glamorous smokey makeup helps to build the idea there is more to this character than it seems. I would like to use a similar technique within my makeup, in order to represent the idea that a person suffering with mental health issues has a lot more going on that what can be seen on the surface.
Kat Hernandez
Kat was another main character during the first season of Euphoria, however took more of a backseat during the second season. Although she seems to have no family complications or traumas, and a reasonably good child hood, Kat has suffered with extremely low self-esteem throughout her school life. After spending years being known as the fat friend, Kat struggles with her confidence but is keen to change her reputation and become powerful, by loving herself regardless of what others may think.
During the sixth grade, Kat has her first relationship, and is seen often questing ‘why her’. Even though her boyfriend is lovely to her, she can not understand why he chose her over all the other girls she believes are prettier. However, at age 11, Kat goes on a family holiday where she is stung by a jellyfish. After this incident, she spends the following eight days of her holiday sunbathing by the pool, drinking mock-tails. A combination of large sugar intake, and lack of exercise over those few days, lead Kat to gain 20 pounds, meaning none of her clothes fit when she had returned home. Although he had been lovely before, her boyfriend then broke up with her, making her believe it was solely down to the changes in her appearance, therefore making her feel even less worthy than before.
This event began Kat’s downward spiral of struggling with self confidence, where she would doubt her worth and fantasise about having a healthy relationship by repeatedly watching romantic movies. However, during the summer before her freshman year of high school, Kat began writing fan fiction on tumbr, soon becoming one of the most popular creators on the platform. Even though she did not have this level of popularity in the real world, this helped Kat feel more worthy, helping to really boost her confidence levels – despite the fact that no one knew of her online fame, and she was often teased for her size and lack of love life.
Then, while attending summer school Kat became good friends with Joules, who convinces her that sex work will help to build her confidence. After being pressured in to having sex at a party, and filmed without her knowledge, a video of Kat was shared online. Although it was soon removed, after Kat threatened to go to the police, everyone in school began taking about Kat. Although these rumors were not positive, she did not care, everyone finally recognised her existence. Making the most of this opportunity, Kat decided to become an internet adult content creator, while wearing a mask so she could not be identified. The floods of men fussing over her body online, combined with her newfound recognition within school, made her feel extremely confident, worthy and powerful.
It was not until after this, however, Kat became the it girl at school. With her new found levels of self love, Kat returned to school a new girl, and is admired for her new look. After discovering how popular she rally now was at school, she decided to quit her online content creating. However, this lead to Kat facing an identity crisis. After realizing she did not love her boyfriend, even though he was literally the best boyfriend she could imagine, she began to realize that quitting making her content had a huge adverse affect on her self confidence.
However, as she had now used her popularity to share messages about body positivity and empowerment, Kat chose to face her new battles alone, as she doesn’t want to admit she has fallen backwards in her road to recovery. She also can not explain her feelings, as no one knows about her internet persona, and these feelings have all arisen since she gave this up.
As shown in the images above, Kat embraced a darker side after revealing her new look to the school. She often wore dark and dramatic makeup looks, with heavily layered, and accessorised outfits. This character is the perfect representation of the grunge fashion, therefore I will be using her look as inspiration, towards my makeup, costume and prop designs.
Megan Hoff 