3 minute read
James Mac celebrates unconventional connections with makeup
Internationally acclaimed James Mac (@jmac_mua) held his first gallery exhibition Makeup X Art recently, a special showcase of his creations and collaborations to demonstrate unconventional ways to connect with makeup.
Beauty & Hairdressing was delighted to be invited to celebrate James’ success at the launch evening at The Morley Gallery, attended by a host of industry names.
Since making his name as runner up on BBC/ Netflix’s series Glow Up Season 2, James has exploded onto the scene as one of the most creative and innovative makeup artists of his generation. Such was the impression he made, he was subsequently invited to guest judge RTÉ’s Glow Up Ireland.
Makeup X Art sponsored by MAC Cosmetics showcased 17 makeup looks telling a multitude of stories including an insight into James’ personal story which he describes as “a queer, Irish person living with Tourette’s syndrome.”
A graduate of Dublin City University with a degree in Multimedia Studies, James majored in photography and visual communications, lending itself to his current work. He honed his makeup artistry skills at VanityX Make-up Academy in Dublin.
Prior to his success on Glow Up in 2020, James won the creative student category at the Irish Beauty Makeup Competition 2018 and in the same year was first runner-up in the Irish Body Painting Championships student category.
As a senior professional makeup artist now based in London, he has worked on runway looks for global brands including L’Oreal Paris and MAC Cosmetics, collaborated with the likes of Jean Paul Gaultier and Mugler, and boasts an enviable celebrity client list.
What’s next for James following the success of his inaugural exhibition? He is currently hosting masterclasses for YSL Beauty UK, demonstrating techniques at global industry events and is Senior Head of Creative – Editorial Artistry at Aliya Baig Academy of Makeup in Hyderabad, India. Going forward he aims to build a freelance career outside of social media, focusing on training, celebrity clientele, fashion, editorial and creative transformations.
