Celebrity Makeup Artist Merrell Hollis is the kind of person you fall in love with as soon as you meet him. He’s got a unique mix of charm and humility that makes you feel like you’re instant BFFs. I saw him give an amazing keynote speech at The Makeup Show Orlando and was blown away!
Glamazon Margo with Merrell Hollis at The Makeup Show Orlando
We caught up with the 2014 Artistic Director of Black Opal Cosmetics to talk about his career, what it’s like working with Wendy Williams, and how to thrive in the beauty industry.
Glamazon Margo: How did you get your start as a professional makeup artist?
Merrell Hollis: I began my career as a makeup artist when I was seventeen. I had a passion for the makeup industry and decided to sneak onto a shoot with R&B group 112. I bought a set of makeup brushes and pretended to be the makeup artist on set – until I got caught! The real key makeup artist, Maurice Beaman, was nice and allowed me to stay anyway. It wasn’t long before I was being nurtured under the apprentice of Maurice Beaman, who mentored and imparted expert advice that I still follow today.
GM: You’re the brilliant mind behind Wendy Williams’ glamour! She looked gorgeous hosting the Soul Train Awards. What’s it like working with her?
MH: I love working with the “Talk Show Diva” Ms. Wendy Williams. We’re now in our seventh season of the show and I have grown so much with her creatively and professionally. Thankfully, she trusts me with her looks. I’ve been there since the beginning but she still likes to challenge me, which makes it exciting to work there every day.
GM: You’re also the 2014 Artistic Director of Black Opal Cosmetics. What does that role entail?
MH: It has been great! Working with Black Opal, a trusted and international beauty brand, allows me to relate with consumers in different ways from giving special appearances to working on photo-shoots for ad campaigns to giving input on the latest trends based off of my celebrity and industry experience. I also work closely with Black Opal’s Sr. Marketing Director, Maya Brown, on the visual aspects on the products and what goes into the products. It truly is an amazing ride.
GM: What beauty innovations can we expect to see from Black Opal. Any exciting news you can share?
MH: Women can expect to learn how to play with color and have fun with makeup. Black Opal is a trusted brand with excellent formulas. I hope that women, who follow the brand and I on social media or see the latest ad campaigns, get the chance to see a look that they can relate with. We want women to get inspired enough to create their own look. Black Opal is a multi-ethnic company with shades for everyone and that is the message we want to share with women.
GM: What product should be a mainstay in every woman’s makeup bag?
MH: Three must-have items every woman should carry in her makeup bag are:
1. Black Opal Oil Observing Pressed Powder
2. Black Opal Even True Flawless Skin Liquid Makeup
3. Black Opal Color Splurge Lipstick in your desired color
GM: Your makeup looks are always glamorous and perfectly executed. What tips do you have for achieving a flawless look at home?
MH: Thank you! People say that I am more of a natural makeup artist. For me, it’s all in the details. A subtle highlight makes all of the difference to enhance the face. It’s what you don’t see that really catches the eye.
GM: What advice do you have for aspiring artists who want to follow in your footsteps?
MH: My advice to young make up artists is to not rush – it all comes with time. Enjoy the journey of being a creative artist before calling yourself a “Celebrity” Makeup Artist. Take notes from an artist who inspires you and be determined—this will demonstrate your passion for the makeup industry.
–
Sometimes you have to faith it ‘til you make it! Merrell Hollis is a prime example of this. He followed his passion and is one of the leading MUAs in the industry. Hope you’re inspired by this interview, Glamazons! Keep up with Merrell at the links below for even more tips!
Merrell Hollis Online | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Ciao Bellas,
Glamazon Margo
1 Comment