Frankie Byrd, a make-up artist and recent graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, earned a degree in Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing. Frankie has worked on editorial and glam looks for numerous clientele. Make-up is a form of artistic expression so follow Frankie through her vision of artistic expression on her website BYRD ARTISTRY.

“Golden Tears”
Model: Grace O’Farrell
Photographer & Stylist: Felicia DiSalvo

Tell us about yourself.
I’m a New York City makeup artist. I’ve been a makeup artist for almost two years, and it was the best decision I've ever made.

There's a plethora of cosmetic schools in this country. Why did you choose to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)?
I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology because it’s the only institution with a Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing program, which is what I studied. I also minored in Creative Entrepreneurship and the Italian Language. Besides wanting to learn about the Cosmetics and Fragrance industries, I was drawn to the artistic and lively culture as well as being in the heart of Manhattan. I’ve always been a creative soul, so this felt like the perfect FIT (pun intended).

How old were you when you realized you wanted to become a makeup artist?
Growing up, I was a visual artist. I loved to draw, paint, sketch, and just let my creative juices flow. I even applied to Fiorello H. Laguardia High School for visual arts, but I was unfortunately rejected. I was really discouraged, but soon my artistic passion transitioned into a love for makeup. Throughout high school, I loved doing fun eye looks, glittery cut creases, and bold lips on myself, but I never imagined doing it on others, let alone making it a career. During the pandemic, I reignited my love for makeup and created my makeup page, which was originally called “@beatbybyrd.” I realized this was something I couldn’t live without, and it was my safe space.

**Left:**
”Pearl Girl”
Model: Yebecca
Photographer: Alyssa Latella
Stylist: Victoria Panzella
Designer: Heaven.Ly
Hair Stylist: Kaia Shi
Nail Artist: Marbles Valdez
Right:
”Maximalism”
Model: Gianna Pflieger
Photographer: AnnAnn Puttithanasorn
Photo Assistant: Michael Lee
Stylist: Victoria Panzella
Hair Stylist: Hannah Rongo

What experience led to this calling?
Once I started in-person school again in September 2021, I became the Beauty Director of FIT’s student-run publication, Blush Magazine, and this is where it all began. Not only was I learning how to do makeup on other people, but I was also learning how to lead a team of makeup artists, hair stylists, nails artists and how to work collaboratively with an executive team. I was only 20 years old at the time, and I couldn’t believe what my life was. I was meeting models, photographers, and stylists every five minutes, and I haven’t stopped since. I absolutely love what I do.

Describe your work ethic or more so describe your technique as a makeup artist.
I’m a workaholic. I started being a makeup artist while finishing my education at FIT. I would take any gig that I could just to build my portfolio and connect with others in the industry. Now that I’m a full-time freelance makeup artist, I push myself even harder to put myself out there. It hasn’t always been easy, but I’ll never give up on my dream. As for my techniques, I’m constantly learning and expanding my skill set. There are so many areas of the industry that I’d love to dive into, such as bridal and special effects, which both require completely different techniques. I’d describe myself as a sponge who loves to learn.

How do you set yourself up for success?
Firstly, everyone has a different idea of “success.” My idea is being recognized for my work and achievements. More importantly, I want to leave an impact on every person with whom I work. This is something I value because people remember how you make them feel. If I can make someone’s day brighter, that’s all I care about.

How do you describe your aesthetic as a makeup artist?
As previously mentioned, I’m still learning and growing as an artist. I don’t think I have a “signature” look or style yet, and I’m not sure if that’s something I want. Many makeup artists are known for one type of look they do, but I love taking on new challenges and doing something different every time I pick up a brush. I don't want to be boxed into a specific aesthetic as an artist because I admire and appreciate many different styles.

**Left:**
”Green Cut Crease”
Model: Yu Sun
Photographer: Alyssa Latella
Stylist: Hannah Brower
Hair Stylist: Hannah Rongo
Designer: Vanebon
**Right:**
”Sea Foam Goddess”
Designer & Model: Genevieve Greene
Photographer: Kaitlyn DePalma
Creative Director: Peter Demas
Stylist: Victoria Panzella

Based on your portfolio, you have done a lot of work with “face paint” type of makeup.. How do you approach this task?
Just like any look, it really depends on a variety of factors. What is the concept? What is this look for? Do I have full creative freedom or do I need to stick to a specific mood board? I take all of these into account and go with the flow. As for the “face paint” makeup looks that I’ve done, I typically let my creative juices guide me and not follow a specific guideline. For example, a photo named “Two faced” the only inspiration behind this look was the performing arts emoji with two masks . Other than that, I didn’t have any guide or template. I created this look on the spot, and it’s one of my favorite looks that I’ve done and my most viral look on social media.

“Two Faced”
Model: Frankie Byrd (Myself)

What is your favorite makeup look? Why is this look your favorite?
That’s such a difficult question. It’s like asking a parent who their favorite child is. Currently, my favorite makeup look would be this one, photographed by Alyssa Latella. This shoot was to highlight upcoming New York City designers, and this look features designs by Alice Seju Kim, aka Sparkle Baby Gem. Alice’s pieces are fun and vibrant, and I wanted to capture that energy in the makeup. I created a gradient eye look consisting of hot pink, blue and green alongside a white graphic liner, hand-drawn stars, bright pink lip, and gems. This look is one of my favorites to date because I was extremely proud of how I interpreted the designs and brought them to life through the makeup.

“Discovered Designers”
Model: Brooke Beaulieu
Photographer: Alyssa Latella
Photo Assistant: Charlotte Longworth
Stylist: Victoria Panzella
Hair Stylist: Hannah Rongo
Nails: Marbles Valdez
Designer: Sparkle Baby Gem

In your opinion, what is the most important quality in a makeup artist?
Stay true to yourself. Everyone has an opinion and many people won’t like your work. And that’s okay because your work may not be for everyone. It can be difficult to stay positive when hearing criticism about something you pour your heart and soul into. However, the important part is being able to take everything with a grain of salt and knowing how to move forward gracefully.

When you make a mistake, how do you rectify it?
Everyone makes mistakes. Don’t get caught up on what you could have or should have done. Focus on how to move forward and learn from your mistakes.

**Left:**
”Sunset Eyes”
Model: Genevieve Geller
Photographer: Logan Simons
Clothing provided by: FINESSE
Right:
”Papaya Mama”
Model: Kelly Kennedy
Photographer: Barbara Rios
Photo Assistant: Laura Piedrahita
Stylist: Victoria Panzella

If a client doesn't like their look, how do you handle the situation?
To avoid situations like this, I have a thorough consultation with the client to understand what they want done. I prefer having inspirational pictures handy, and I'll ask them what qualities they like about the look, how much makeup they wear on a daily basis, and what their makeup is for (wedding, dates, baby shower, etc.). I also like to give the client a mirror so they can check while I'm working to make sure everything is to their liking. I’d rather fix something sooner than later. If the client doesn’t like their look after I’ve finished, I’ll ask them what I could do to satisfy their needs and do that to the best of my abilities.

Tell us about any current or upcoming projects.
I recently worked on a short film, music video, and a musician’s cover art, so I’m excited to share those when I can.

As a makeup artist, what are your goals for the next five years?
My goals are to book large campaigns, work with at least one celebrity/public figure, and hopefully make enough money to move out on my own. However, whatever is meant for me will come to me. I’m trusting the process and enjoying the ride.

What advice do you have for future makeup artists?
Never give up on your dreams. This goes for everyone, not just makeup artists. If you have a passion for something and it makes you excited to wake up in the morning, follow that feeling. I see too many people making decisions based on what other people want for them instead of listening to their own dreams. At the end of the day, you’re the only person living your life. So, create the life you’ve always wanted to live.

Frankie Byrd

CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Talent: Frankie Byrd
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by David Tongi, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine