Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanie Mokdad.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am an award-winning makeup artist and a veteran of television, live performances, and bridal makeup. I have eight Emmy Awards from the National Television of Arts and Sciences. As the key makeup artist for PBS-Detroit for more than twenty years, I have worked with local and international celebrities. My work has been seen on networks ABC, NBC, CBS, NHK Japan, as well as fashion and life-style magazines.
As a makeup artist, I travel globally and connect with the most interesting people from all backgrounds. It is truly a joy to make a client feel comfortable in my makeup chair.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As with any craft, there are plenty of twists and turns! Makeup artistry is detailed and requires updated improvements with technique. Every artist has their own style, and rather than emulating other people’s work, it is rewarding to tap into what makes your talent unique.
As a television makeup artist, it’s essential to have knowledge of the industry. I float between the world of TV, and private events which is exciting. I am fortunate to work with performers, entertainers, and public figures. A great makeup artist is adaptable in any environment and flexible with last minute changes.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
One of my proud moments was my recent opportunity to work with President Barack Obama for the Kresge Foundation Centennial Celebration at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Other moments include receiving my first of eight Emmy awards. The first award is always the most electrifying and compels you to keep working hard!
Also, I am honored to receive the first in Michigan for my craft, the prestigious “Silver Circle Award” for distinguished service as a makeup artist in television.
My specialty is glamour makeup geared for television, photography, and bridal. You could say I am obsessed with details and nuance. People are equipped with different features, so I never take a prototypical approach with my style. Some artists like to develop “A Look” they specialize in. My preference is a makeup design that is individual to the client’s features and comfort. Transformation is beautiful, but if everyone walked around with the same makeup look, it would be quite boring. I prefer makeup artists who push beyond the comfort of their boundaries creatively.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Dare to be bold and take risks, not only with your style as a makeup artist, but with whom you collaborate. Part of success is failure and not having things fall immediately into place. If you love the craft and devote the time to develop your technique, there will always be an audience out there for you!
Rejection in the industry should never deter you from advancing your career. Work on your people skills, learn to be an effective communicator, and don’t compromise when it comes to doing great work. The short cuts undermine the time it takes to perfect your technique. Most importantly, develop your own style!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amanie.com
- Instagram: @amanie.mua
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanie-mokdad-767009210
