For aspiring makeup artists, Amber D has the dream job. Now based in Australia, the New Zealand-born talent has an extensive background in makeup artistry: locally, she has worked with every top designer, magazine and stylist, and she has travelled the world to work behind the scenes at shows at New York, Paris, Milan and London fashion weeks.
Her expert hand has made up the faces of everyone from Steven Tyler to Rita Ora, and her flair, hard work and sense of humour has seen her come on board as Lorde's makeup artist. Currently in New Zealand touring with the musical powerhouse, Amber shares the story behind her career trajectory, and secrets behind her success.
As a teenager, what did you want to be when you 'grew up'?
I wasn't sure but I knew that I loved doing all art classes in school so I imagined I would be an artist of some sort.
Why did you choose to be a makeup artist?
I decided to become a makeup artist when I realised that I could combine my love of drawing and fashion. I think I have been able to be innovative with the work I have done and bring something fresh to what can often be seen to be just slapping stuff on a face. I like treating the face like a canvas and bringing beauty to a look as well as being able to appreciate the styling on photoshoots and catwalk shows.
How did you get to where you are today?
I dropped out of art school halfway through and started working in retail for Karen Walker and then Zambesi. While at Zambesi I did a part-time makeup course in the evenings and weekends. I was lucky to have met a few people in the industry while I was working there who were so supportive of me and gave me a few breaks at the start of my career. When a job at M.A.C. came up I leaped at the opportunity and stayed with them for 14 years as senior makeup artist before becoming a freelance makeup artist this year. I think building connections and strong friendships are so important in this industry.
