Color Theory for the Makeup Artist

Book excerpt: Color Theory for the Make-up Artist: Understanding Color and Light for Beauty and Special Effects analyzes and explains traditional color theory for fine artists and shows how to apply it directly toward make-up applications Make-up artists control color the same way a painter does. They choose color palettes, match colors, blend new colors, and create designs on a canvas that is always changing. Some colors cancel others, some balance each other, and some oppose other colors. However, painters seldom have to consider inconsistencies in how their art will be lit and where it will be displayed the way that a make-up artists does. This book teaches how to mix any color using just red, yellow, blue, and white. It discusses the reason for variations in skin colors and undertones, and how to identify and match these using make-up, while choosing flattering colors for the eyes, lips, and cheeks. Colors found inside the body are explained for special effects make-up, like why we bruise, bleed, or appear sick, and ideas and techniques are also described for painting prosthetics. The book also explains how lighting affects color on film, television, theater, and photography sets, and how to properly light a workspace for successful applications. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, you will never stop learning. There will always be new products, techniques, and fashions – this book provides guidance and inspiration to keep practicing, creating, and honing your skills.