IMATS, the International Makeup Artist Trade Show is one of the places to be if you are a professional MUA or an aspiring MUA. Started in the 1990s, IMATS is produced by Make-Up Artist Magazine and is considered the premiere gathering for thousands of make-up artists, manufacturers and enthusiasts.
5-Time Emmy Award Winning Celebrity Makeup Artist Eve Pearl, Kevin-James Bennett of Make Up For Ever, 3-Time Oscar Winner Ve Neill, John Stapleton of MAC Cosmetics and Nolan Robert, winner of the Blush television series on LifeTime were just a few of my friends who demonstrated and lectured on techniques and the business of makeup artistry.
The show also featured Dick Smith, world-renown artist and NBC’s first makeup artist. I attended makeup classes taught by Mr. Smith back in the late 80’s and he helped shape my passion, which would eventually become a 20+ year career! Mr. Smith’s credits include The Exorcist (his most controversial job!), The Godfather, Taxi Driver and Amadeus.
Greg Cannom, the man (and the Oscar winner!) behind the incredible makeup artistry in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button was also in attendance and presented a keynote address. His other credits include: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Master and Commander, The Passion of the Christ, Titanic and A Beautiful Mind.
A Panel Discussion with the special effects crew from the movie StarTrek included Barney Burman, Richie Alonzo, Steve Buscaino, Joel Harlow and Neville Page. The movie features extensive special effects makeup which enhances the character development and the panel talked about the importance of working with an incredible team in order to create one of the biggest block buster films in history!
I must also give a shout out to some of my favorite manufacturers who displayed the latest in products: Temptu, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Ve's Favorite Brushes and Eve Pearl. Of course, the professional MUA stores were all in attendance: Cinema Secrets,Naimies, Frends and Alcone, all of which provide essential products for the stellar artist and the novice consumer. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my dear friend, Eve Pearl whose incredible cosmetic line is now being sold through Naimies!
As you can see, the Los Angeles IMATS show attracted impressive talent! A very big thank you goes to my good friends at Make-Up Artist Magazine for press passes and VIP experience! Please enjoy the highlight photos below:
