Art meets makeup: How to emulate some of the most iconic art movements with makeup
One indisputable fact is that makeup is an art form. Throughout history it has both inspired artists as well as borrowed inspiration from artists and styles of the time. If you want to try something new with your makeup, consider looking back at the most iconic art forms in recent history.
Cubism
Cubism is an early 20th century art movement that’s just as it sounds: shapes and figures made of cubes. Picasso and Cezanne were the most notable artists who painted in this style.
Creating a cubist inspired makeup look requires a lot of strategic contouring. Take your Luxe Pro Contour brush with your Sculpt & Slay (or favorite shadows, if you want something more avant garde) and contour your cheeks and your forehead into your hairline. Consider the natural contours of your face and carve out those specific areas.
Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau (or “new art”) was a popular genre at the end of the 19th century. Celtic art, as well as natural forms and structures, such as contours of plants and flowers, heavily inspired this style. Some of the most popular artists of that style were Mucha and Klimt.
A lot of this era’s artwork is filled with gold and other metallic tones. Our Eye Lights in Bronze Gold would be a perfect pop of color on your lids. Apply wet for a thicker, more opaque finish. Red lipstick is seen throughout the portraits of this time as well, so be sure to rock your favorite shade!
Art Deco
Art Deco is another early 20th century art style characterized by geometric and curvy patterns, sharp outlines, and bold colors.
A cateye with your Insanely Intense Tattooed Eyeliner is sure to sharpen up your deco look. Try jet black for a classic look or navy for an extra pop of color. Add even more boldness with your favorite shade of the Brow Wand. Dark, manicured brows are seen in many Art Deco pieces and in early 20th century fashion images, so brush and fill to your heart’s content.
Renaissance Era
Renaissance art is a 15th century classical art style that was a reflection of the then-contemporary philosophy, literature, and culture. While Renaissance art swept all of Western Europe, many iconic artists of this time were Italian, such as Botticelli, Da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Most art depicted realistic scenes with humans and animals.
Renaissance-inspired look needs to be both pretty and subtle. Use your Luxe Pro Powder brush to gently drape a hint of blush over the apples of your cheeks. Whether pink or peach, this will provide a natural liveliness to your face. If you want to add some eye shadow, consider using blues or reds, two shades that are often found throughout Renaissance paintings. Finish off the look with some mascara and a nude lipstick and you’ll look like you hopped right out of the Mona Lisa!
While we only covered a few art genres, there are many more historic styles and iconic eras that can be mimicked. Is there an art style that you love that we missed? Let us know, we’d love to hear from you!
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