Make-up can transform a bare Face into a Masterpiece

Renate Shikongo

Multitalented make-up artist Renate Shikongo has the ability to transform a bare face from blank canvas to exquisite masterpiece.

The mostly self-taught talent who is passionate about art and philanthropy shares the story of where all of this started and what it means to be a socially responsible creative.

As far as she can remember, Renate has always been artistic. “At five, I used charcoal to express my interest in art through drawing. In primary school, we had some textbooks that had images and I always copied those drawings on paper, I enjoyed it so much. Apart from visual art interest, my teachers always appreciated how innovative I was,” she says as she traces the roots of her artistic passion.

Renate loves playing around with different looks. Bold and dramatic are her favourite ones to explore.

Her inspiration stems mainly from Pop Culture and, like many millennials, she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities available on the internet.

“I follow inspirational makeup pages and when I see something interesting, I take a screenshot of it and try to create the same look, or one inspired by it, until I get it right and boom! It’s a new skill.”

Unlike many other makeup artists, Renate is quite passionate about uplifting others, using her skills and influence to help those who are less fortunate than her.

Renate also draws inspiration from how she feels at any given point. “I tend to express my feelings through makeup. It has truly become therapeutic”, she says.

Unlike many other makeup artists, Renate is quite passionate about uplifting others, using her skills and influence to help those who are less fortunate than her. “There is so much power in being an influencer on social media. If there is anything I’ve learnt during these projects, it is that people are willing to help, they just need someone to take the lead.”

Earlier this year she opened her heart and helped to build a home for an underprivileged man who used to live in a makeshift structure. She has also lent her services for social intervention programmes aimed at addressing social issues.

When Renate isn’t working as a make-up artist, she bakes. Her baking enterprise, which she ventured into during lockdown, has gained so much momentum that she is known both for her beat face and for ‘The Loaf’.

To be able to continue using her platform to help others, her biggest dream is to one day launch her own lip line and to have ‘The Loaf’ on the shelves of every second grocery shop in Namibia.

QUICK FACTS WITH RENATE

Dewy or matte finish? Matte

Bold or natural look? BOLD!!! I prefer anything daring.

The one makeup item you’ll never be caught without? Lipstick. It was my first introduction to makeup.

Rukee Kaakunga is a Communications Specialist and Freelance Writer based in Windhoek. Follow her on Twitter @rukeeveni, on Instagram @rukeekaakung or visit her website: www.rukeekaakunga.com.

Credits: Photography: Namafu Amutse, Renate Shikongo & Kizani photography Styling: Renate Shikongo & Jeffrey Hiuii Models: Renate Shikongo, Chelsi Shikongo & Rossy Theodor