Putting on make-up is not everybody's cup of tea. It's hard for most to nail the natural look. And above just putting make-up on for yourself, one must be skillful and creative to be able to do make-up for others. But Deepanwita Chabbra and Geetha Rao, Founders of GlossNGlass Makeup Academy in Bengaluru, have their own methods of training youngsters in this particular art. Deepanwita says, "Having worked in the make-up industry for about 16 years, we have had the privilege of working in different streams including bridal and fashion. We got a lot of requests from aspiring artists and clients too to teach make-up artistry. As there aren't too many specialised make-up academies in Bengaluru, we decided to start our own academy. Both of us are extremely passionate about the art and science behind make-up and hair artistry. So, it seemed like the most natural transformation for us. As trainers, we share everything that we have learnt from our experience and create more scope and growth opportunities for this profession."
GlossNGlass Makeup Academy that was started in 2012 has various courses available. Geetha explains, "All courses start at the fundamental module. We have courses that range from a bridal make-up course and advanced bridal make-up to a more intensive professional make-up and hair course and more advanced professional make-up and hair courses. Apart from the regular classes, we also put together weekend batches because we've had a lot of requests from women and working professionals who are hopeful to pursue their passion."
Now, if you're thinking only women opt for courses like these ones, then you're wrong. “We are a very open, welcoming and safe place and don't follow gender norms. In fact, we’ve had a few male students who have excelled at their work in the industry, in hair and make-up. The make-up academy is open to everyone irrespective of whichever gender you identify yourself with as long as you hold the passion to be part of this," says Deepanwita, adding, "The make-up artist industry has grown exponentially, from being bridal and event make-up artists to the fashion industry for editorials and shows. New make-up artists can also work in the media industry with corporates, apart from the retail and e-commerce sectors."
Geetha, who feels that it is the Indian wedding industry that gives great scope to make-up artists, explains, "While it’s great for the industry, one needs to understand that being a make-up artist is not all glam and fun. It requires a lot of dedication and hard work. Aspiring make-up artists should understand that before getting into this field. Also, a certified professional course is very important to kick-start your career. Currently, there are a lot of fake courses and trainers in the industry who teach make-up by watching YouTube videos. Keeping a tab on these bogus artists and allowing only licenced trainers to teach is the need of the hour!"
Geeta and Deepanwita have expanded their make-up academy across India so that it can cater to many students. "We want to reach out to more of our audiences and be able to touch the lives of more aspiring artists. We have a lot of students travelling from various parts of India who come to be a part of our make-up academy. Hence, opening in other cities is a great idea," says Geetha.
