Theatrical Makeup Artist

Your Fit

Income

$62K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

8.6%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Theatrical Makeup Artist?

A Theatrical Makeup Artist specializes in applying makeup and prosthetics to performers in theater, television, and film to enhance their appearance, create characters, and contribute to the visual storytelling of a production. This role combines artistic skill with an understanding of makeup techniques and materials.

Sample job titles:

Hair and Makeup Designer, Makeup Artist, Special Effects Makeup Artist, Special Makeup Effects Artist

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Theatrical Makeup Artist.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

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How much does a Theatrical Makeup Artist earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Theatrical Makeup Artist.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$42K per year	$52K per year	$62K per year	$75K per year	$104K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $2.6K below the national average.

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What does a Theatrical Makeup Artist do?

Work environment

Theatrical Makeup Artists primarily work in theaters, film and TV production studios, and on location for various projects. The environment is fast-paced and collaborative, often involving early starts or late finishes to align with production schedules. They work closely with directors, actors, and costume designers.

Quick task list

Designs and applies makeup to fit the character and production style.
Creates special effects makeup, such as aging, injuries, and character-specific looks.
Collaborates with directors and actors to develop visual concepts.
Maintains makeup inventory and hygiene standards.
Adjusts makeup between scenes or for different camera shots.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Character Makeup: Creating specific character looks, often involving detailed and transformative makeup.
Special Effects Makeup: Using prosthetics and special techniques to create effects like wounds, deformities, or fantasy elements.
Period Makeup: Specializing in makeup styles from different historical eras.
High-Definition Makeup: Adapting makeup techniques for high-definition film and television.
Opera and Ballet Makeup: Specializing in dramatic and enduring makeup for stage performances.

Description

Theatrical Makeup Artists play a crucial role in the creative process of a production, helping to bring characters to life and enhance the overall visual storytelling. They must possess a deep understanding of makeup materials and techniques, as well as a creative flair for design. This role requires staying abreast of current trends and technologies in makeup artistry, as well as an understanding of lighting and camera techniques, particularly for those working in film and television.

Collaboration is key in this profession. Makeup artists work closely with a diverse team of creatives, including directors, actors, costume designers, and hairstylists. They need to be able to translate a director's vision into a tangible makeup design, often under time constraints and while adapting to the unique features of each performer.

The career of a Theatrical Makeup Artist is both demanding and rewarding. It involves constant learning and adaptation, as each production brings new challenges and requirements. The role allows for significant creative expression and the opportunity to be part of a team that creates compelling and memorable performances.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Playing a vital role in the creative process of theater, film, and TV productions.
Seeing their work contribute significantly to the success of a performance.
The opportunity for creative expression and artistic development.

You might make a good Theatrical Makeup Artist if you are...

Artistic and creative, with a passion for makeup and design.
Detail-oriented, able to execute intricate designs.
Good at collaboration and communication, able to work well with a team.
Adaptable and able to work under pressure.
Interested in theater, film, and the performing arts.

Pros:

Creative and varied work.
Opportunities to work on diverse projects and productions.
The excitement of working in the entertainment industry.

Cons:

Irregular hours and potentially long workdays.
Highly competitive field.
The need for continual learning and adapting to new techniques and materials.

How to become a Theatrical Makeup Artist

Typical education

Formal education requirements vary, but many makeup artists have completed a specialized makeup artistry program, which can range from several months to a year. Additional training in theater, film, or special effects makeup is also beneficial.

High school preparation

Courses:

Art and Design to develop foundational artistic skills.
Theater or Drama classes to gain an understanding of the performing arts.
Chemistry to understand the composition of makeup materials.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in school plays or local theater productions.
Practicing makeup techniques on friends or family.
Following online tutorials and practicing various makeup styles.

Preparation after high school

Enrolling in a specialized makeup artistry program.
Gaining experience through internships or apprenticeships in theater, film, or television.
Building a portfolio showcasing a range of makeup skills.
Attending workshops and industry events for networking and professional development.

More resources

The Makeup Artist Guild (MUAH) - Provides industry news, networking opportunities, and resources for professional makeup artists.
Theatrical Makeup Artists Network - A platform for sharing information, techniques, and job opportunities.
Stage Makeup Online - Offers tutorials, products, and resources for theatrical makeup artists.

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