Inside the World of Pro Makeup Artistry with Zara Findlay.
IYKO's Founder, Natalie Rose Vella sat down with Zara Findlay, Senior Pro Makeup Artist for Bobbi Brown with over 20 years of experience, to discuss her journey, signature style, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From humble beginnings at a beauty counter to working with A-list celebrities, Zara shares her insights on the industry, her must-have kit essentials, and the importance of adaptability as an artist.
From Beauty Counters to Bobbi Brown: Zara’s Journey
Zara’s love for beauty was first sparked by her mum, who worked in the beauty industry. Initially, she imagined a career working with animals, but life had other plans. At 15, she took a job at Urban Decay, completely self-taught with no formal makeup qualifications.
“I worked for Urban Decay for about four to five years, and it was the best experience in terms of meeting people, playing with different faces, and learning on the job,” she shares. “Then I moved on to MAC for a year—very fast-paced, very trend-driven.”
After working at MAC, she dabbled in agency work, an experience she highly recommends for new artists. “It helps you find your style,” Zara explains. “Do you love the sophistication of Chanel? The classic beauty of Bobbi Brown? Or the bold artistry of MAC? That’s how I found my home at Bobbi Brown, where I’ve been for 15 years.”
The Most Rewarding Moments in a Makeup Artist’s Career
For Zara, there’s no single defining moment—there are two.
First, an interaction with a client at 17 shaped her approach to artistry. “She had heavy pigmentation and felt self-conscious. I used my knowledge—thinking of my mum, who had pigmentation as well—to enhance her beauty rather than mask it. When she saw herself, she cried. That was the moment I knew the kind of artist I wanted to be."
The second? Doing Keira Knightley’s makeup. “I grew up watching Bend It Like Beckham, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Love Actually. To have her in my chair was surreal. And she was the nicest person I’ve ever worked with.”
The Power of Listening in Makeup Artistry
Zara believes that makeup artistry is more about listening than technique. “It’s about understanding what makes your client feel confident. If they love strong contouring, even if it’s not your style, that’s what matters. You’re there to make them feel their best.”
Natalie agrees: “It’s easy to get caught up in the artistry, but at the end of the day, it’s about the client’s confidence.”
The Reality of a Pro Artist’s Day-to-Day Life
“No two days are the same,” Zara laughs. “One day, I’m creating tutorials for social media. The next, I’m on set for a campaign shoot or teaching in-store masterclasses.”
The hardest part? Travel.
“I live in the middle of nowhere, so I average eight hours of travel a day. Having a well-organised kit is essential. I need to pack smart and plan ahead to keep my workflow smooth.”
Natalie adds, “Travel as a makeup artist is overlooked. It’s exhausting. Kit organisation is crucial.”
The Evolution of a Makeup Kit
There are two types of artists: “The ones who carry everything and break their backs, and the ones who pack strategically,” Zara jokes. “I used to carry more when I started out because I wasn’t confident in my style. Now, I take only what I need.”
Natalie relates: “MUAs need to give themselves grace. You start with everything and refine it over time.”
Why a Good Kit Organiser is a Game-Changer
When discussing the IYKO HANA Pro Kit Backpack, Zara raves about the thoughtfulness of its design.
“I can instantly tell this was created by a makeup artist. The first time I used it, I felt smug! It has every detail I need—compact, sturdy, comfortable. Even the handle placement is genius. It’s an investment, but it’s one that makes my life easier*”
Advice for New Artists Building Their Kits
“Don’t stress about having the perfect kit immediately,” Zara advises. “We all started with mismatched products from family donations. Also, don’t underestimate affordable brands like e.l.f. and Revolution. Expensive doesn’t always mean better—it’s about how you use the products.”
She suggests a clever trick: “If you buy makeup for yourself, save a little for your kit. Decant products instead of buying doubles—it’ll last longer than you think.”
Staying Inspired in a Fast-Paced Industry
With social media constantly shifting trends, how does Zara stay creative? “I learn from my friends. I have artist friends whose styles are totally different from mine. I’ll watch them work, ask questions, and absorb what they do best. There’s no shame in learning from others.”
Natalie reinforces this: “If you’re unwilling to keep learning, your career stalls. Sharing knowledge benefits everyone.”
Rapid-Fire Round with Zara Findlay
💄 Go-to lipstick shade? MAC Well Well Well
✨ Favourite makeup trend? Glossy skin and freckles
🤝 Dream collaboration? A luxury Japanese brush brand like Hakuhodo
Final Thoughts
Zara’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, adaptability, and the art of enhancing, not masking. Whether she’s working on a high-profile client or a regular customer, her approach remains the same: make people feel like the best version of themselves.
Her advice to aspiring artists? “Keep learning. Stay adaptable. And invest in a kit that works for you—not against you”
Watch the full interview here
Want to elevate your kit game? Check out the IYKO HANA Pro Kit Backpack —a kit designed by makeup artists, for makeup artists. 💼✨
Until next month! Natalie xx
