MAKE-UP ARTISTRY PART-TIME
Program teaches students techniques for looks from bridal to special effects
The next time you are in awe of the bride’s makeup at a wedding you are attending or are grossed out but also impressed with the special effects makeup in a horror movie, you might be looking at the work of a graduate of Seneca College’s special effects make-up artistry program.
That’s because for more than 30 years, the part-time program has been equipping students to meet the standards of the professional cosmetics and entertainment industry.
“The program gives students a solid foundation in make-up techniques which they will use throughout their career,” says Deborah Krymuza, an instructor in the program. “Whether you are starting your career, looking to update and/or enhance your skills, or are looking for a career change, this program benefits all age groups.”
While applicants to the program must have a good command of the English language in order to be successful, Krymuza says an ideal candidate will also enjoy working with people, have the ability to work well individually or in a group, have an open mind and be willing to try different things, understand that practice is the key to successful learning and not be afraid to make mistakes as part of the learning process.
The program itself, meanwhile, teaches everything from the basics of make-up application right through to glamour makeup for day and evening, fashion, bridal, theatre, film and TV makeup, as well as special effects such as wounds, airbrushing, character makeup and the creation of facial hair. To ensure accessibility, classes are offered in the evenings and on weekends.
Given the hands-on nature of the industry, a typical class is broken down into three sections — theory, demonstration and practice of makeup techniques — in a fast-paced interactive social environment, says Krymuza.
“Each section of the program teaches different techniques which build on each other as students progress through the program,” she says. “Students will have hands-on experience with fashion, theatre, film/ TV and special effects makeup.”
Barb Pimenoff is the program co-ordinator for special effects makeup artistry. She says the interactive features of the program also go beyond make-up application to include other elements that are crucial for industry success.
“A professional photographer will take pictures of the students’ work to help build their portfolios,” she says. “Students also take a full course in production work and script analysis. Knowing how to read a script is necessary in organizing make-up needs, assessing the time required for a film or television series, preparing a budget, and scheduling make-up call times.”
Krymuza adds, “The photo shoot component of the program, where students have professional photos taken, includes three make-up looks that they create. In addition, the program also has a section on portfolio creation, which gives students the tools to build a proper portfolio outside of the classroom.”
Because many make-up artists are self-employed, the program is rounded out with business practices essential for a career as a freelance make-up artist, which are also discussed in the offering’s production work and script analysis course, along with the techniques to properly bid on jobs.
Instructors who teach in the program, says Krymuza, have spent many years in the make-up industry and share their experiences with the students on a regular basis.
Additionally, because many of the instructors are also still working in the industry, mostly in film and television, they are able to inform curriculum, says Sandra Noble, the program’s chair.
“The special effects make-up artistry program is updated as trends in the industry change,” says Noble. “Our instructors work and have strong connections with the industry, which allows us to be responsive to changing trends as needed.”
With its well-rounded approach, special effects make-up artistry prepares graduates to work not only in the entertainment industry but also in spas, salons, retail cosmetics, theme parks, agencies, special effects shops, doing non-union freelance work, and as educators for cosmetic manufacturers, theatre and fashion shows, or union artists (in film and TV).
To learn more about the program, attend Seneca’s open house on Nov. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Newnham Campus. The event will include a demonstration of the airbrushing technique and an opportunity to meet with instructors and staff.