Whether you are a professional, an amateur or simply an enthusiast, makeup application is an extremely interesting skill to learn. Pooja Salvi talks to famous Hollywood makeup artist Donald Simrock to find out more about the makeup industry and his plans for Bollywood
After getting Hollywood celebrities Lady Gaga, Madonna, Britney Spears and Kim Kardashian ready for the red carpet, Donald Simrock made his way to India to conduct a seminar at the BHI’s (Bollywood Hollywood International) Makeup & Hair Academy on February 22, when founder Vivek Bharati got in touch with him. According to Vivek, despite having a lot of potential in the makeup sector, we lack global makeup techniques and the product knowledge that is required to exploit our full potential in the field. And so, during his many trips to New York and Los Angeles, he decided to invite Donald Simrock for an interactive session here. When Donald was here, we spoke to him about the makeup cultures in the two countries.
What do you think about the prospects of makeup artists in India?
Today, India has incredible talent, which is a very important factor when it comes to the growth of any industry. And this is a very interesting time for the country — many other industries are crossing over with each other, and there is immense scope in the field of makeup too. Indian audiences are embracing more talent, which makes way for endless possibilities.
Are there any prominent differences between Hollywood and Bollywood, in terms of makeup trends and/or the way in which makeup artistry is approached?
Well, there are some differences that are just obvious. Indians have more flushed skin than people in the west, which doesn’t exactly make the art of makeup in the country different, but it makes it interesting. Makeup trends are changing every minute! In the past, we would stick to a greyish makeup tone, but today, a flushed, red or pink tone is preferred.
How is makeup different on the red carpet when compared with what is worn daily?
When you apply makeup, you approach it with the same intention, regardless of whether you are getting ready for the red carpet or for your workplace — you want to enhance your natural features. Of course, there is the extra glamour quotient on the red carpet, but the overall idea remains the same — enhancing your natural features as much as possible and in the most flattering way.
How would you sum up your experience in the city? What has it been like?
The art of makeup has a very traditional approach here in Mumbai. We are looking forward to indentifying with new techniques together and learning more about non-conventional makeup.