Makeup Artistry for A Cause

I am not a professional makeup artist; however, I love watching makeup tutorials. Makeup tutorials bring art to daily makeup routines that emulate self-confidence, personality, and liveliness.

As Pablo Picasso once said, "Art washes the dust every day life away."

Makeup artistry eliminates the mundane of personal care, and creates excitement.

In addition to my love for makeup artistry, I enjoy supporting good causes whether it's contributing time, money, or raising awareness.

I strongly believe makeup artistry and supporting nonprofits can overlap.

For example, why not do makeup artistry tutorials or looks for a cause?

Let's say a makeup artist wants to help Haitian-focused nonprofits.

A makeup artist could develop a tutorial or photograph a look exhibiting the colorful nature and culture of Haiti. This makeup artist could explain the inspiration behind the tutorial and/or look, highlight a nonprofit's efforts, and point to the nonprofit's website for volunteer opportunities and contributions.

Makeup artists and their tutorials and/or looks could contribute to nonprofits through raising awareness and advocacy. Art and philanthropy go hand and hand, and makeup artistry is no exception.

I have photos taken by Jwaun Booth, supporting the cause of Global Gifts, a fair trade store based in Indianapolis, IN. https://www.globalgiftsft.com/.

Global Gifts offers an array of home tapestries, mugs, vases, statues, jewelry, soaps, scarves, cards, journals, and more. These items are from all over the world and help lift marginalized people out of poverty.

Fair trade encompasses principles addressing fair wages, fair working conditions, and environmentally sound practices.

The fair trade movement partly stemmed from coffee farmers in Nicaragua fighting for their rights wage-wise. I have gold glitter eyeshadow and bronzed, flushed skin to symbolize working under the sun. I line my eyes black to show the stark contrast of the sunshine and what is at stake with their work which is their livelihood. I wear scarlet lipstick to symbolize the blood, sweat, and tears that go into fighting for equal rights.

For this particular makeup look, my call to action and encouragement to people would be to purchase fair trade gifts. Especially from Global Gifts. I would also encourage people to spread the word about Global Gifts through word of mouth, social media, and brief informational sessions at schools or work areas. Other fair trade stores could also be promoted, and the concept of fair trade could become even more popular than it already is. Even more makeup looks could be created for fair trade awareness by different people who have, of course, different ideas tied to fair trade. Then audiences would have more looks to choose from with promoting fair trade.

People are naturally attracted to giving back while at the same time gaining a tangible benefit. Makeup Artistry is tangible benefit that is artistic, meaningful, and fun, all of which contribute to life experiences worth remembering.

Furthermore, I would encourage other makeup artists and brands to join in on the concept. I would reach out to brands as well such as MAC and Chanel. Makeup Artistry for A Cause could be an awareness and financial trend for makeup retailers benefitting both small unknown nonprofits and major nonprofits as well. Specifically, a portion of makeup sales at different retailers could benefit the nonprofit along with the look they are promoting for that month or season.