Not a lot of makeup artists can boast that they once were responsible for doing the makeup for “Brooke Logan” from The Bold & Beautiful! Well technically speaking, the actress Katherine Kelly Lang, is famously known for the character she played on the popular soapie. Well, Nelson Mandela-based make-up artist Amanda Nyoka of Amish Beauty Glam certainly can!
Amanda Nyoka lovingly known as Amish by her clients is a makeup artist and beauty entrepreneur who first honed her skills for glam and special effects make-up working on the tv sets of Nelson Mandela Bay community tv station BayTV, now known as Mpuma Kapa TV. I sat down with Amanda for a chit-chat on what makes her tick as a makeup artist & to get the tea on the latest trends.
What first attracted you to doing make-up?
Formally when it comes to running a business, I started in 2017, but as a makeup artist, I started in 2013. Being a make-up artist is not something that was a dream for me, I was a hairdresser. However, a friend of mine told me about an opportunity to intern as a makeup artist at BayTV, I was already doing make-up casually, so I decided to try out and was given the opportunity. Long story I ended up concentrating on the make-up services, registering the business etc.
Would you say being a makeup artist was a calling to you then?
Honestly, I literally trained myself to do make-up on YouTube. I remember the first time I did special effects make-up such as scars, wounds etc, my former boss at BayTv challenged me to do something for GBV awareness and I had to learn. I would sit for hours at reception watching videos on YouTube. Interestingly I was drawn more and more to special effects makeup and eventually ended up getting gigs in theatre and the film industry.
Can you tell us more about your business Amish Beauty Glam?
My company was formally registered in 2016 August. Our first highlight was when we worked with LA-based company BBL Productions, when actress Katherine Kelly Lang is famously known for playing Brooke Logan was coming to South Africa including Nelson Mandela Bay. They asked me to be her makeup artist and I was also responsible for taking care of her skin routine as a whole. Another highlight worth mentioning is working with production house Connect TV on reality tv shows such as Diski Divas. We also have a relationship with Moja Love Productions, specifically when they need special effects make-up. Some corporate clients we have worked with I can mention are Isuzu and Mahambehlala Communications to name a few. We are growing.
What are your favourite make-up trends currently?
When it comes to makeup, I‘m not into trends. When I started my brand, I created a specific look that I offer and have mastered. However, the current favourite looks are the lashes, they are bigger, there is a cut crease, and it’s more like a solid drawing or boundary on the eyelid. You don’t really blend it, it’s more like artwork for the eyes.
Are we still contouring or is that out?
Contouring is basically about changing or enhancing some features on your face. Some people have strong features that don’t need much contouring. Yes, it’s a popular request but some people don’t need a full contour, you can choose a feature to enhance such as cheekbones or nose and that’s enough.
What are the basics one needs in their makeup bag?
Foundation, tissues, wipes, lipstick, mascara, and a powder in case you need to touch up. That’s what I keep in my bag.
What is your number one advice when it comes to makeup?
Makeup is not magic. It’s meant to enhance; therefore, I believe in taking care of your skin. Make-up is a product, if your skin is dry for example you have to use specific makeup, if it’s oily a different type etc. It’s important to take care of the canvass to get the best out of your make-up. Do your research on what would best work for your skin. Otherwise, for me, make-up is a mood, choose what works for you, be bold if you want to be bold, and wear bright lipstick in winter if that’s your mood. I always say when it comes to make up there are no seasons, just moods.
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