Mariam's perspective: "Makeup artists are just that - artists"

Meet Mariam: a 21-year-old college student from Tennessee with a love of makeup. I interviewed her to find out why makeup is important to her. Her responses offer a distinct perspective to consider!

Mariam is pictured in a just a few of the different makeup looks she loves wearing!

How often do you use makeup?

Almost daily

When did you start using makeup and why?

I think my mom allowed me to start around the age of 14. All my friends had already started so I was definitely always interested. I think it started off as a social thing, it was fun "getting ready" with friends.

Why do you use makeup now?

Because I actually enjoy the process of putting it on! Sometimes I’ll put on makeup even if I’m not even leaving the house. Not only is it relaxing, but it’s also fun to experiment with shapes, colors and contours. And of course it makes me look better, so I feel more confident.

It sounds like makeup acts as a creative outlet.

Oh, absolutely! Makeup artists are just that – artists. I may not be able to draw, paint or sculpt, but there’s not much more satisfying than the perfect cat eye drawn on with liquid liner.

Do you think makeup is vain? Why or why not?

I don't personally think it is, but I can see why people do. The way I see it, makeup may primarily be about how you look but it impacts how I act, how I carry myself, and most importantly how I feel. And at the end of the day isn’t that what’s most important?

Can you think of a time that makeup made you feel happiest?

Every time I get new makeup! It's really exciting to think of all the new looks I can create.

Can you think of a time that makeup helped you mediate a time you felt upset?

Yes! The process of applying makeup can be very calming at times.... with the right setting.

Can you think of a time you wished you didn’t have to wear makeup?

I guess when I'm lazy, but I don't mind going out without makeup on. It does give me confidence but makeup for me is first and foremost a fun way to express myself. If I don't have time for a full face of makeup that's okay.

~

Mariam provided a perspective I may not have considered before. She mentions how it makes her "feel more confident”, which is of course significant. But she also adds that makeup provides her with a creative outlet, which is important and valid as well. Although I may not have been aware of it, I use makeup creatively as well, as I’m sure is the case for many other women.

#beauty #art