VIC Make up artist and Hair stylist - Zoe Karlis

Zoe Karlis is a Melbourne based professional make-up artist & hair stylist specialising in catwalk, editorial, advertising, bridal, TV & film. She has worked in London fashion week and has also worked with current Miss Universe Australia, the gorgeous Jesinta Campbell. Here she talks to Ones 2 Watch about her career and the make up industry.

At what point in your life did you realise you wanted to be a make-up artist and why?

For as long as I remember! I grew up in my mothers hair salon so I was always part of the industry. I would sit there for ages just playing with all her makeup and creating textures. Then in my teens, i was always the one doing my friends makeup and would create different looks for them all. Not only do i love making people feel beautiful and special I love the creativity it brings with it. I have always been so passionate about makeup and its amazing being able to do it for a living!



What steps have you taken to break into the industry?

EVERYTHING AND ANYTHING! The official course I undertook was over 13 years ago. It was great and taught me the fundamentals of makeup and applying it. Over the years I continued to do makeup part time. This enabled me to build upon my experience and work on all the different types of faces out there. I then decided to move to London where I worked in the industry full time. I did a short course at the Academy Of Freelance Makeup and met the most amazing teachers and mentors. It was the best thing I ever did. I was able to work with some of the greatest makeup artists and they taught me the most valuable tricks. My network and contacts grew from there and its been full steam ahead ever since.



What are the obstacles and challenges that you have faced in your field since you began?

It is a very competitive and difficult industry to break into. You will get knocked back a million times but I have realised the ones who succeed are the ones who never give up no matter what. Unfortunately the industry here is not like the UK as there is not as much going on. This is where your attitude and complete professionalism is important. Especially when starting out you will be expected to work or free - its just the way it is! When building your folio and trying to get the best shots possible for everyone its imperative that you focus all your time and energy to it.



What has been the best job you have worked on so far, and what would be your ideal job?

Without a doubt, London Fashion Week. Backstage is unreal and the energy that everyone brings to it is outstanding. It was non stop and i loved how creative you get to be. My ideal job would be a Chanel show or campaign in Paris........watch this space!



To check out more of Zoe's work, please go to her facebook page by clicking here.