Lifetime reality series Blush star Maura "Mo" Lewit knows a thing or two about makeup. Not only is she a graduate of the prestigious Joe Blasco Cosmetics and Makeup School in Los Angeles, but also she's a seasoned collaborator for some of Hollywood's science fiction films and television. Furthermore, she served as the featured artist for the Cirque Du Soliel print campaigns.
The same transformation she has seen in her work on Rachel McAdams, she can see each day on the average woman. And, herself. "When I put on my 'war' makeup, I initially feel, well, I feel my attitude change," Lewit said. "Like I'm ready to face the world. I see it in women all the time-when you start to change something about your look no matter how subtle. They hold themselves higher. You see that transformation."
Lewit has some advice for those interested in working as a professional makeup artist.
- Attend a technical school. This might be Joe Blasco Cosmetics and Makeup School. Lewit noted that Mary Kay or other beauty consultants, while might have some general skills and good intentions, they are not makeup artists first and foremost; rather they are trying to sell their retail products. "The educators are actually working in the business, themselves," Lewit said. She added that this is beneficial for training and internship opportunities.
- Have patience and perseverance. Be willing to pound the pavement, Lewit said. "It's almost like being an actor," she said. "You are constantly putting yourself out there for opportunities. Have a professional attitude and conduct yourself in a professional matter. It can be different when you aren't punching in that preverbal time clock. You have to be disciplined."
- Always take every opportunity. "No job is too small," Lewit said.
Getting Her Name Out
One way Lewit is getting her name and her resume out to prospective clients and job opportunities are social networking sites like Facebook, Myspace, and LinkedIn.
"It's one way that I'm telling potential clients about special event advice, I have a website blog, I'm able to answer questions, comments can be posted," she said. "I try to keep it very interactive and the key is to really keep them up to date."
Go For It
Lewit is a professional makeup artist that challenges herself to constantly learn new skills and take on new challenges. She advises interested students of the craft to find a form of makeup artistry that best fits their interest and have the confidence to achieve their goals.
