PAT McGRATH
From shoe-shop assistant to globally renowned make-up artist, Pat is a bona fide beauty pioneer. ‘It’s a very exciting and innovative time in beauty and fashion,’ she says. ‘The future is now’
PROFESSION (AS ON PASSPORT)
Make-up Artist
FIRST JOB/BIG BREAK
My first job was in a shoe store on King’s Road in London, but I taught myself make-up and went on to do celebrities, artists and musicians for music-video shoots. My big break came after being introduced to the genius photographer Steven Meisel. We worked together and instantly hit it off. Now we have a great friendship, both professionally and personally.
CURRENT JOB
I’m the Max Factor Global Creative Design Director, which means I also develop products with the brand as well as CoverGirl in the US. Right now, I’m shooting editorials and I’m always working on my Pat McGrath Labs line.
CAREER HIGH
There have been so many great moments and memories, but one that is very special to me was receiving my MBE for services to the fashion and beauty industry. I was so honoured to be given the accolade. Driving into Buckingham Palace was such an incredible moment.
DREAM JOB
An ultimate dream would have been doing the make-up of actress, singer and dancer Dorothy Dandridge (top right), in the Sixties.
BACK-UP PLAN
I would have loved a career as an opera singer.
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS
I’m so busy that free time is truly a luxury, but I do love finding new inspiration in films, art galleries, music and nature when I can. I adore spending time with friends.
SIGNATURE SKILL
I love pushing the boundaries of make-up and challenging society’s perception of what’s considered beautiful. For me, make-up can be an escape; it’s like a fantasy and it starts with amazing skin, which is my absolute obsession.