Make-up artist : Training

Informal training is just as important as formal qualifications. Consequently, industry experience, whether paid or unpaid, is vital to professional development and ability to get work. Given the predominance of freelance work, training is often on the job, with individuals taking responsibility for their own continued professional development (CPD). Many make-up artists believe that their on-the-job training and experience is just as important as their professional training, if not more so.

Many artists and designers wish to enhance or consolidate existing skills in order to open up new areas of expertise or to produce better quality work within their own specialist area. Further study provides the opportunity to experiment, diversify or obtain the specialist knowledge required. There are limited training opportunities, mainly based in commercial schools, for which you have to pay a fee. Make-up artists may undertake short courses in areas they wish to specialise in, such as special effects.

Creative Skillset: The Sector Skills Council for the Creative Industries  provides information on training opportunities. Subsidies of up to 70% are available on selected make-up courses through the Skillset Freelance Training Fund. Further training decisions are usually based on the review of a work portfolio, technical skills gained and industry experience of tutors.