MM Interview: James Clark: Make-Up Artist

MM member James Clark took some time out from his busy professional schedule to tell us all about the ways and workings of a media make-up artist plying their trade within Scotland.

Based in Glasgow, James has worked on a wide variety of productions spanning television, short film and theatre, and for a wide range of clients including Sky Media, BBC Scotland, Hatwalk and Sit1. In MM's first ever interview, James gives us an insight into how he built his reputation within the industry, as well as offering pointers and tips to aspiring make-up artists and filmmakers alike.

MM: Tell us all we need to know about James Clark in no more than twenty words.

JAMES: I am loyal and hard working. I will defend people if I think that they are being treated badly or unfairly.

MM: So, what's it like - in a nutshell - to be living and working as a make-up artist within the film and video industry of Scotland? And how did you get to this point in your life.

JAMES: I have found working in Scotland hard graft. I have enjoyed every minute of it as a make up artist I have worked on everything from live events and fashion shows to music videos and film. It's a small market which can be difficult to break, although I have been fortunate enough to work on some major shows and with a range of amazing actors and models, as well as taking on students and 'new start' make up artists, giving them a foot in the door and general advice on the industry.

I got here through hard work, having spent years building contacts and working with people. I have good working relationships with my suppliers and clients; thankfully many of whom have been with me for years. It's made it all possible to get where I want to be.

MM: What are you working on currently?

JAMES: At the moment I have several things on the go, between working with agencies and photographers; having scripts to read and do the breakdown on, including Revenge for Bill Little. I am even working a series of training videos aimed at new make up artists. I've been talking about it for years and never got the time to do it, so now the time seems right).

MM: For me personally, it's not unusual to see ultra low-budget filmmakers over-looking the need to have a fully-trained make-up artist working on their production. Maybe they can't afford the expense, or perhaps they simply don't think they need the expertise. How would you sway anyone who may be apprehensive to employ a true professional such as yourself for the job at hand?

JAMES: A good make up artist is a God-send. I have worked with some of my actor and filmmaker friends for years, and have been thrown in as an extra, and have also been actor and presenter. The right artist is the one who loves the job - sometimes it's about the art and not the money. Someone with experience brings a lot to the table. Make up is designed to make the actors feel the part. If your actor is having to go and research, design and apply their own make up it can take time, whilst taking on a make-up artist relieves that hassle. We are there to meet your actors and see them when they leave. A professional is like an agony aunt/uncle. You need to talk? Then make up is the place most people go to when they need a break. I have listened to confessions from directors and actors, brides, models and photographers alike. Hell, over the years I have been part of many events, seen people through hard times as well as supported and been there for people long after the shoot has ended.

A good make up artist is a bonus on set. I have pulled favours and gotten cameras, lights, actors and - in one case - a major supplier to support a movie.

MM: And following on from the above question, what would be your guidelines and advice to a filmmaker who has perhaps not worked with a fully-fledged make-up artist before? What do you expect from a director when working on their film?

JAMES: The best piece of advice I can give is to do your research. Don't just hire someone based on the fact it's your mate. Look at their work, talk to them and get them in to a demo; meet them face to face. Just because they have an HND doesn't make them good. Above all respect your make up artist - they are the ones that generally stay loyal to a production or the company.

MM: Most ambitious and/or interesting project you've ever worked on?

JAMES: There have been a few. I worked on a range of internet based show and large-scale fashion shows. The best has always been the work at big, theatrical events. Theatre is a great training ground for make up artists. If you can hack it in theatre with the tight budgets, the weird hours and the rapid changes then you are going to make it. For me, Hatwalk will always be my favourite show.

MM: Has your work ever taken you further than Scotland?

JAMES: I have and still do work across the UK. Next year I will be back in London working with the fantastic Martina from Unmask the Beauty as a lecturer and promoter of her make up store. I spent a fantastic spell in Holland touring with a band, and surprisingly I was second camera on the live shows of Beggars Row, the celtic band from Scotland.

MM: Got any shout-outs for any worthy causes close to your heart that would be relevant?

JAMES: Yes, I want to say 'support mental health.' The Panel of Reference Scotland supports the mentally ill and their carers. Why? Because mental health is important and the entertainment industry is rough on us all and many people have issues with stress and depression.

MM: How can we get in contact with you, and what's your availability?

JAMES: well the easiest way to get me is to whistle, or my contact details as follows:

e: james@makeupstylist.co.uk
w: www.illusionsbyjc.com
t: 07791237194.


James is always available to discuss bookings, and has a vast portfolio of his work displayed online, which I'd encourage you to check out!