How and when did you get into art?
I’ve been interested in art since I was a child. I drew on everything I could, even one of the walls of my house. Art fascinates me, it teaches me how to be patient with myself and is very soothing.
When did you begin painting works on your face? Did you start with makeup?
I started when I was about four years old, smearing on my mother’s MAC lipstick all over my face before I went out. I started to do “traditional” makeup in the summer of 2018. I would watch Nikki Tutorials and try to mimic what she was doing, with my limited items. I, being a beginner, was not good at it, and therefore decided to turn makeup into art. I bought a Mehron Makeup face palette and never looked back.
What song is at the top of your playlist right now?
This is the hardest question yet. “Like Mariah” by HOMESHAKE.
What to you is the importance of more inclusion of black people, through models, wider shade offerings and space for black-owned products and lines, in the beauty industry? When you think of the word beauty what do you see?
For me, as a child, I saw a white girl or me with straight flowing hair. I want to show that the word beauty applies to everyone, but my community is the last race to know of its beauty and strength. I believe that we are JUST now starting to love ourselves! I want black children to look at me and feel beautiful. I want black children to look at me and feel inspired to create their own businesses, and feel like they can become models, or even run for president! It is so important for ALL types of black people to be represented in the beauty industry because when people can look at themselves to feel beautiful, they have someone who looks just like them to remind them.
Who were some of the black women in media who inspired you growing up? And who inspires you now?
Beyonce. Beyonce was my childhood. I feel like I learned how to feel and be confident because of her. She was and still is a black woman breaking boundaries. Today, my mom inspires me. She is a superwoman, there is nothing she can’t do. My mom does everything in her power to make sure I am both safe and happy. She is determined and hardworking. I want to be like her when I grow up.
Who is your favorite artist?
Vincent VanGogh is a huge inspiration to me. Art was his only friend. Art helped him feel happy and like he was a part of society. Art helped me in more ways than I imagined and because of him, I feel like I can create anything.
What is your favorite beauty product?
Colorpop So Juicy Lipgloss in the shade “Princess Cut.” Couldn’t catch me without it.
Face paint brand of choice?
Mehron is my holy grail!
