This May, one of the most significant beauty experiences, the Makeup Show, is celebrating their 20th anniversary and returning to New York this weekend. To commemorate such an important event, we spoke with renowned makeup artist James Vincent, the Director of Artists Relations and Education at The Makeup Show, about what to expect this year.
The Makeup Show is owned by Shelly Taggar, who works closely with Vincent on creating a community of artists who can educate themselves in a safe space curated for their every need. “The Makeup Show, at one point, was the largest pro-only makeup event in the United States, and it still is, as far as being makeup-focused,” he said. “[It] has become a way for our industry to be together–a place where brands can introduce new ideas and new products, a place where artists can meet mentors and tap into education and artistry and inspiration, but also a place where relationships can happen and networking and meeting people that can help you build your career, your branding, your business, as well as your artistry.”
This year’s theme for The Makeup Show is about community and where makeup artists want to see the beauty industry heading in the future. Independent brands will be heavily featured, ranging from artist-owned to female-owned and queer-owned brands, and more. Vincent’s job at the show is to develop the educational panels that happen throughout each day. This year, you’ll be able to hear from panelists like Danessa Myricks and attend workshops taught by renowned artists like Lijha Stewart. “I would say I’m the heart of the Makeup Show,” Vincent said. “I would say the personality of the show is very much my personality. Shelley has always given me a platform to push things and shake things up.”
Vincent is passionate about diversity, representation, and inclusion within the makeup industry. “When I started, there was no size, there was no shape, there was no color, there was no diversity,” he said. “This year, we are pushing even harder. It becomes crucial that when we are part of a community, we give back to the community.”
In the age of social media, Vincent believes that community is the heart of the beauty industry. The Makeup Show is a resource for education and connecting with others in your network. “This is not an easy industry, but it is a very rewarding industry, and if you have your community around you, it not only lets you know what is available to you, what your options are, but it also lets you know what your opportunities are,” he said.
For more information on The Makeup Show, visit their website here.
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
