Produced by: Her Studio New York

Interviewed by: Stephanie Rommelt

What kind of creative do you identify as?

I would define myself as a multidisciplinary artist. I was always an artsy fartsy girl doodling in my notebooks. I consider myself very lucky to have had a support system like my mother and teachers to encourage me to explore my creativity and express myself. I’ve played around in many different mediums; painting, drawing, ceramics, photography… but makeup artistry will always be my real true love and passion. That will always come first for me.

How did you find your passion?

I kinda just stumbled into it! One summer when I was 11 years old, I was stuck at home sick and in pain due to an autoimmune condition. I was feeling super bored and depressed so I spent a lot of my time doom scrolling though my Tumblr feed. I eventually came across this girl named Tahlia Joy, a girl my age who had cancer and created makeup content as her way to cope. She would say “makeup is my wig,” and that truly resonated with me.  I watched her YouTube videos religiously, started following other social media MUAs, and fell more in love with the concept of makeup/beauty. I convinced my grandmother to drive me to my local drugstore and with what little money I had saved, I purchased the products that had been recommended to me. I began to practice nonstop— at one point having my eyes swell up from all the rubbing that came with makeup removal. It calmed me and made me feel empowered. 

What is your approach to beauty?

As someone with a craniofacial difference, I think I see beauty in a different way than most. It’s the little things like how someone carries themselves, how they discuss the things/people they love, the energy they bring. I see beauty everywhere around me. But as a makeup artist, I like to see people as a whole; the vibe they bring to the shoot/their appointment, their features, their history with makeup and what they’re looking for out of a makeup look. It’s all about marrying the vision/inspiration and who the person currently is so the look feels more balanced and wearable. I aim to make people feel comfortable and like an elevated version of themselves. 

I have a lot of clients who are similar to me in terms of having facial differences; whether it be due to a congenital birth condition, an accident, cancer. When it comes to doing makeup with distinct features, differences or perceived flaws (according to current beauty standards), I approach it one of two ways: highlighting/embracing it or by creating symmetry. Some people enjoy staying between the lines/accentuating what they already have. Others prefer to elevate it through manipulating light, shadow and shape to create a more symmetrical look to the face. I always ask my client which technique they prefer. Both approaches are valid. 

What’s your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is connecting with my clients and watching their confidence transform. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had someone shyly sit in my chair, nervous and insecure. We live in a world where beauty is constantly marketed to us but still feels unattainable. Even to the most gorgeous of models have bad self image days. It’s no problem though…I am here to remind you how stunning you are!  I love creating an environment where my client feels safe, cared for, heard and uplifted.  I’ve had some of the most incredible conversations while doing makeup on people I had never met prior. 

Nothing beats handing your client the mirror and watching them truly SEE themselves for the first time. I love watching them light up and finally recognize how gorgeous they truly are!

What about the beauty/fashion industry do you want to change?

I want people in the beauty/fashion space to recognize there are so many different kinds of beauty. The beauty standards it creates constantly changes and it’s impossible for all of us to keep up. The industry should be evolving WITH us instead of us evolving to fit within it. Bodies are not trends. We should be celebrating all kinds of faces, bodies, stories and capabilities. 

What kind of projects/clients do you work with?

Honestly, I’m not focused on just one kind of makeup. As long as I have a kind client, I am happy to do special events, makeup lessons, commercials, fashion shows, campaigns… literally anything. I am so passionate and in love with makeup that as long as I get to do it and afford to live, I am a happy girl! 

Self love tips?

I know it sounds cliche, but my mom always told me to “treat my body like a temple,” and I think that’s pretty solid advice. You have one life and only have this one body, why not love it? Learn to truly look at yourself and notice all the beautiful intricacies that come along with being you! Feed yourself nutritious and healthy food. Give yourself breaks when you’re tired. Exercise consistently. Treat yourself to a gift or treat every now and then. Read or watch something interesting and let your beautiful mind wander. Even when you make mistakes, talk to yourself lovingly and give yourself grace. Know that you are innately worthy of love, kindness, happiness and respect

Connect with Naomi!

Instagram : @naomiheathermakeup