Brisen Smith
Bill Flood
Art in Society
Field Guild Study
The Art of Makeup
Makeup, in the most basic terms, are cosmetics applied to the face for the purpose of covering, enhancing or altering the human complexion and appearance. Cosmetics such as these have been used since the time of the Ancient Egyptians, when ore and lead had been used to create dramatic facial contours on those wealthy enough to afford it. Likewise, today we use this same concept to portray beauty and wealth. Two things commonly held on the same pedestal.
I have chosen to do my field guide on makeup for several reasons, not only the great artistic abilities that have come from the craft of art, but the representation and importance we as a society have put behind the simple name of it. Ever girl, even as a child, can’t wait to finally get their hands on the stuff. Growing up and watching their mothers in the mirrors it almost looked like a work of magic. Even from the times of an innocent child are we captivated by it’s ambiguous powers. The beauty we relate to these simple cosmetics can almost be as abrupt as brainwashing when one truly thinks about it. Seeing all the hub we put up with the topic, the movies, actors, and of course the several variations of cosmetic advertisement we pass on a daily basis, it’s hard not to let it take over a part of our life. Growing up in a world like this leads to many extractions of makeup culture and different artistic trends within that culture.
There are several different styles and traditions following the culture of makeup, all dependent on your place of living as well as those of the specific ads and propaganda you’re exposed to. For example here in America alone we have several different styles of makeup. Hollywood is a large contender in the styles of makeup viewed and applied by American prospectors. Styles such as winged eyeliner, smokey eyes, and bright and vibrant lipstick can be traced back to Hollywood. A lot of these original “Hollywood” styles can still be seen today, especially its ideas of contour.
These different styles of makeup and the methods behind the madness are all easily accessible by several tutorials posted on social media sites such as facebook, instagram, youtube and much more. This is a way that the art form can truly spread to younger generations of makeup designers. Just like traditional art forms, makeup is a way to express oneself individually. Young and old, male and female, all different kinds of people can relate themselves to the fine arts of cosmetics.
We still find ourselves relating makeup and appearances to status and wealth. Even within our ideas of makeup, we view certain ways that the makeup is wore to be associated to levels within society. Makeup appearing smeared or unfinished is degradable as it in a way represents yourself as well as where you are from. Being able to do makeup and do makeup well really embodies who you are as a person and where your place is among the social norm.
Thinking about the makeup norms in one culture to the next is quite interesting. For instance American and Asian makeup cultures may appear similar but are actually quite different. In America the goal is to have flawless skin that is clear and smooth as porcelain while still being able to contour your cheekbones to portray strong features. Both things very desirable when thinking about ideas of beauty. Although in Asian cultures, having flushed cheeks on clean skin, as well as having fine detail around the eyes in hope to make the eyes appear larger represents youth and innocents as well as beauty which is very desirable among Asian men.
Makeup is not only a way to cover up blemishes or make your eye color stand out more, but a way to fully represent who you are as a person and what you believe in. Whether that be your social standing, your artistic endeavors, insecurities that you’re hoping to conquer, makeup is a widely used medium and has been for thousands of years. It is not just about looking pretty. Makeup is a form of art known by all, respected by many, and appreciated by few.
https://www.pinterest.com/explore/old-hollywood-makeup/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNyLjp46QaM