Richard Symons - Pushing Beauty Boundaries

06/13/24 • 63 min

In this episode we kōrero with the incredibly talented Richard Symons, a multidisciplinary makeup artist whose journey has taken them from art school in Auckland to the high-pressure world of fashion and editorial makeup. Inspired originally by Lady Gaga's 2009 "Paparazzi" video, Richard's work celebrates transforming non-traditional beauty into art.

We cover a lot of ground: from Richard's early fascination with their mother's makeup, to their transition from makeup school to freelancing and photography, breaking into the industry with sheer persistence and networking. You'll hear the details of their experience and *spoiler alert* triumphant win on "Glow Up," the challenges of working grueling 14 hour days, and their thoughts on the evolution of New Zealand's beauty industry.

We also dive deep into some personal topics—Richard's experience with gender inclusivity, the impacts of COVID-19 on retail makeup, and their current role as a brow trainer! Plus, we talk about balancing creative work with personal well-being, and why setting incremental goals can be more fulfilling than chasing fixed ones.

So grab a coffee, sit back, and enjoy this insightful and fun conversation. And if you enjoyed Richard's story, please take a moment to rate or leave a review for The New Zealand Makeup Podcast. Your feedback helps us bring you more inspiring content!

Timestamps

(00:00:31) Makeup Career Inspiration

(00:03:50) Art of the Unconventional

(00:04:57) Childhood Memories

(00:06:42) Post-Makeup School

(00:10:59) Glow Up Experience

(00:24:10) Memorable Projects

(00:26:50) Breaking Barriers

(00:28:29) Supporting Diversity and Inclusivity

(00:29:27) BDS Movement

(00:34:06) Gender Fluidity in the Beauty Industry

(00:36:16) Drag Makeup

(00:39:18) Post-Glow Up

(00:41:17) Current Role

(00:43:04) Freelance and Creative Work

(00:46:19) Goals and 1% Improvements

(00:48:11) Creative Inspiration

(00:54:48) The Final Three Questions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Timestamps

(00:00:31) Makeup Career Inspiration

(00:03:50) Art of the Unconventional

(00:04:57) Childhood Memories

(00:06:42) Post-Makeup School

(00:10:59) Glow Up Experience

(00:24:10) Memorable Projects

(00:26:50) Breaking Barriers

(00:28:29) Supporting Diversity and Inclusivity

(00:29:27) BDS Movement

(00:34:06) Gender Fluidity in the Beauty Industry

(00:36:16) Drag Makeup

(00:39:18) Post-Glow Up

(00:41:17) Current Role

(00:43:04) Freelance and Creative Work

(00:46:19) Goals and 1% Improvements

(00:48:11) Creative Inspiration

(00:54:48) The Final Three Questions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

Nikki Lovrich - Aotearoa's Freelance Makeup Pioneer

In this episode, renowned makeup artist Nikki Lovrich takes us on a captivating journey through her remarkable career spanning several decades. From her humble beginnings learning skills from her hairdresser mother to becoming one of New Zealand's first freelance makeup artists, Nikki shares intimate stories of her experiences in the fashion industry. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of working with a new generation of creatives to build the industry from the ground up, and how she adapted to significant changes in the media landscape over the years. Nikki also shares valuable insights on navigating various roles, maintaining high standards, and the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the makeup industry. Throughout the episode, she reflects on her role as a pioneer, setting trends and promoting a more natural approach to makeup application. Nikki's passion for her craft shines through as she recounts creating diverse looks for photoshoots and using makeup to transform people's lives on the TV show "10 Years Younger in 10 Days". With a focus on resilience, preparation, and showcasing her diverse skills, Nikki's story is an inspiration to aspiring makeup artists and anyone pursuing their dreams in the creative industry.

(00:00:24) From Fashion College to Freelance Makeup Artist

(00:07:54) The Rise of New Zealand Fashion

(00:09:15) Navigating Changes in the Makeup Industry

(00:12:35) The Importance of Inner Confidence

(00:14:27) Adapting and Thriving as a Freelance Artist

(00:16:26) Unforgettable Photoshoots in Exotic Locations

(00:17:45) Origins of Influence

(00:19:11) Navigating Pricing for Product Promotion

(00:20:35) New Zealand > Money

(00:22:40) The Natural Makeup Pioneer

(00:26:50) Staying Inspired and Learning in Makeup

(00:29:10) Makeup Trends: Products Over Looks

(00:30:43) The Art of Transformative Makeup

(00:36:56) The Art of Multitasking in Makeup

(00:42:05) Reflections on a Makeup Artist's Journey and Resilience

(00:47:32) Maintaining High Standards in Makeup Artistry

(00:49:07) The Final Three Questions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next Episode

Tanya Barlow - From Makeup to Manicures

This episode features the incredibly talented and multi-faceted artist, Tanya Barlow. From voiceovers to nails, and with a rich background in hair and makeup artistry, Tanya's story is truly inspiring. We cover a lot of ground: from Tanya's early days in the makeup industry to her evolution into a sought-after session nail tech and nail art expert. Listen as she shares her experiences in film character development through nail design and discusses the therapeutic aspects of her craft.

Tanya also dives into the art of airbrushing, highlighting its transformative role in both makeup and nail art. She reflects on the joy of creating custom designs, the importance of respecting artistic boundaries, and the continuous evolution of her creative skills.

So grab your headphones and tune in to learn how a true artist not only survives but thrives by constantly evolving her craft.

Don't forget to rate and review The New Zealand Makeup Podcast to help us bring you more stories of creativity and resilience!

(00:00:22) Tanya Barlow: Hello Tanya!

(00:02:51) Grease Paint: Prestigious Makeup School in London

(00:10:46) Grease Paint as an Agency and Work Opportunities

(00:14:39) Returning to New Zealand and Personal Branding

(00:19:03) Music Videos and Unpaid Work

(00:20:42) Blurring of Boundaries in the New Zealand Industry

(00:23:13) Airbrushing

(00:28:56) Turning to Nail Art and Training with Monaco Nail Academy

(00:36:27) Self-Taught Nail Art and Opening a Salon

(00:37:38) Nails for Editorials and Films