Name: Veronika Kelle
Location: Macao
QC Online Makeup Courses:
Facebook: Facebook.com/veronikakellemakeupartist
Instagram: Instagram.com/veronikakelle
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
My name is Veronika Kelle. I was born and raised in Hungary, and I am currently living in Macao. My husband works as a performer at Macao’s must-see show, “The House of Dancing Water”. We have a beautiful 10-year-old daughter.
I like traveling to and experiencing other countries and different cultures. I enjoy learning, trying new things, and being creative. Challenges motivate me and keep my mind busy. I also have a passion for belly dancing.
Why did you decide to become a makeup artist?
For 15 years, I managed my own model agency, for which I organized both fashion shows and beauty contests. I enjoyed working with models, designers, and photographers. During that time, I fell in love with makeup artistry and decided to become a makeup artist.
I had solid experience applying stage and fashion makeup, but I wanted to upgrade my skills by learning professional makeup techniques. I wanted to expand my knowledge of different types of makeup looks, like bridal, fantasy, theatrical makeup, face painting, etc. I completed the Master Makeup Artistry Course at QC Makeup Academy in 2018. As lifelong learning is important to me, I also completed the Pro Makeup Workshop, and I am currently a student of the Special FX Makeup Course. For me, makeup is not just work, but also a hobby and passion.
Residing in Macao, how is the makeup industry landscape overseas? What’s your most requested makeup service?
Macao is a major resort city and the top destination for gambling tourism—it’s called the “Las Vegas” of China. Tons of shows, events, weddings, exhibitions, and festivals are held in the city each year. So makeup for special events, face painting, and bridal makeup are the most requested makeup services.
The bridal makeup look popular in Macao is more natural than in the west. Asian women prefer a pale, porcelain skin tone. Tanned skin is not a trend here. Close to Macao, Hong Kong is a major player in the beauty, fashion, and movie industries, with corresponding agencies in each industry. Makeup for fashion shows, photoshoots, and movies are the most common services.
How would you describe your makeup style? What type of makeup do you like doing the most?
I love making people look more beautiful, enhancing their natural beauty. But mostly, I like doing heavy stage makeup and smoky eyes.
You offer theatrical and live performance makeup. What’s the hardest part about working behind-the-scenes for frequent live shows?
I think the hardest part about working behind-the-scenes is applying makeup quickly but properly at the same time. Working under pressure can be stressful. Things change rapidly during a live show or performance, so I must be prepared for any problems or requests that arise. Sometimes, the environment or technical conditions are not suitable for applying makeup. Restrictions such as limited space, poorly lit area, a noisy or crowded venue, etc., make adapting to difficult conditions is a very important skill.
What made you choose QC over all the other makeup schools out there? How do you think QC Makeup Academy has prepared you for working in the field?
When I decided to study professional makeup artistry, we were living in Macao. I couldn’t find makeup artist classes in English, only in Chinese. Due to my hubby’s job, our daily schedule differs from day to day. So taking makeup classes online was a much more appropriate option for me.
I can say that enrolling in QC’s online makeup courses has been one of the best decisions of my life. The system and the whole team are very professional and efficient. I get prompt answers to all my questions and any problems have been fixed quickly and properly. The books, tutorial videos, and online student center are well organized, well designed, professional, and are the highest quality. It has been a pleasure to learn to do makeup with them.
The Academy and my tutor, Nathan Johnson, have always supported me. I have received useful advice, feedback, and guidance. I know I have been prepared with all the professional knowledge I need to work in the field.
What’s on the horizon for your makeup business?
In the near future, I would like to finish my Special FX Course. Then, I’d like to expand my services with special FX makeup, build my portfolio, and start my own makeup business. Besides that, I plan to enter makeup competitions and keep expanding my makeup skills.
Finally, if you were trapped on a desert island, what makeup product would you bring?
If I was trapped on a desert island, I would definitely bring moisturizer and sunscreen to protect my skin.
