Joy Adenuga, London based make up artist, talks to Flavour about how she made it as a successful MUA in the fashion industry.
When did you first realize that you wanted to be an MUA?
5 years ago but my confidence was really low so I didn’t do anything about it.
Have you had an educational background in fashion MUA, and do you think education is an important to be successful in the fashion industry?
Yes I do, I took a foundation course at the London School of Makeup.I discovered I had a special passion for Fashion/Editorial. It allows me more freedom to be creative as a makeup artist. I love researching trends and putting my own spin on it. Education is very important and vital. Its not all about creating looks with 5 eye shadows. You need education in handling different skin tones, colour correcting etc.
Any experiences interning? Good, Bad or embarrassing?
I’ve not had a lot of experiences interning but I’ve assisted some lovely Top MUA’s who have been very supportive of my journey.
How difficult is it getting a job as an MUA in fashion?
A lot of networking is involved as referrals are very vital.
How difficult was it setting yourself up?
Its was not very easy, lots of hard work and sacrifice was involved.
Do you think that money is important aspect to ‘make it’ in the fashion industry?
No, I believe a strong passion and being creative is very important.
What is the best and worst piece of advice you have been given?
Best Advice – Build an amazing portfolio to get amazing referrals.
Worst Advice – As soon as you finish a makeup course you can start asking for payments on makeup jobs.
Highlight of your career so far?
Being commissioned by Top Uk Magazine BlackHair Magazine to produce their 4 page beauty spread on every issue.
Any goals that your still hoping to achieve?
Would love to have a Makeup Agency one day.
Have you got any advice for young and budding entrepreneurs/designers hoping to succeed as an MUA?
Practice as much as you can and try assisting makeup artists you admire to get some experience.
For more information on Joy and her work click on the links below.
www.joyadenuga.com
www.bridalbeauty.org.uk
Twitter – JoyAdenugaMUA
Instagram – JoyAdenugaMUA
