Beauty’s never a drag
GLAM: KRYOLAN BRAND AMBASSADOR 2021 BLOSSOMS
Exploring the magic of makeup and magnificent transformations.
German cosmetics company Kryolan’s 2021 brand ambassador Barbie Jackson talks about how discovering the magic of makeup gave her the ultimate outlet for self-expression.
Where did your love for makeup begin?
I was a bit of a late bloomer, and as a teen, I came across the show RuPaul’s
Drag Race, which was an epiphany. I was mesmerised by the talent and how comfortable the contestants were with themselves. It gave me the courage to venture into the art of drag as a form of self-expression.
I began experimenting with drag makeup ... became a bona-fide drag queen and loved to spend hours creating unique looks for myself.
However, entertaining people is not where my passion lies. It lies in the magic of makeup and the magnificent transformations I can create with it.
I was exposed to so much wisdom and education about gender identity and sexuality. It was a journey of self discovery and I embraced the fact that I identify as gender-fluid, lying along the spectrum of gender.
What is your signature look/style?
My go-to style is nude light glam without compromising coverage.
I went all-out in my early days and created extravagant looks but realised it was not me. It felt like a mask.
I respect makeup artists who can transform themselves and do eccentric, intricate and beautiful looks. But I am most confident when I have a natural, light, “insta-baddie” glam.
How has being a Kryolan ambassador impacted your career?
Being named a Kryolan ambassador is the highlight and one of my proudest moments.
I come from a humble background and could never have imagined the world of opportunity if Kryolan hadn’t given me this chance. It was the ultimate step in my metamorphosis – I emerged a magnificent butterfly.
W hat has being a makeup ambassador meant to you?
Kryolan was with me right at the very beginning, so it holds a special place in my heart.
When I first started, I had to make do with whatever I could find, and raid my mom or sister’s supply. So, when I finally decided to invest in my makeup skills, the first product I bought was a Kryolan TV paint stick (a drag essential). It might not seem like a big purchase, but it was something I worked extra hard for and I loved using it. Expanding my collection has been exciting, and I love trying out new products.
Working with these products has given me confidence and makes me feel beautiful every time I use them.
I am so grateful to Cuan Kemp (head of makeup, education, marketing and social media for Kryolan) for being so patient and recommending the best products for me every single time.
This opportunity has restored my faith in the principle that working hard gets you where you are supposed to be.
Where to from here?
The journey has only just begun. These past few years have been a voyage of discovery as I figured out what I want to be and what I want to stand for. Going forward, I want to improve my skill set and grow my confidence. In addition, I hope to expand and embrace the world of hair and fashion and develop my passion within the industry.
I want to stand as a role model. When I was growing up, I would have loved to have someone I could relate to and feel encouraged to embrace who I am without apology.