Maria Rivera is an Australia-based makeup artist and hair stylist who has done work for editorial, runway and advertising, among other categories. Some clients she has worked with, include: Gucci, Rachel Hunter’s Lola and Zimmerman.
MalenDyer: What inspired you to become a makeup artist?
Maria Rivera: I have always been drawn to makeup from a very young age, the power of beauty and transformation had me transfixed.
MD: What does being a makeup artist offer you?
MR: Variety everyday and incredible experiences, and it allows me to work with very talented, creative people.
MD: If you weren’t a makeup artist, what would we find you doing?
MR: I would more than likely be a hairdresser [or] beauty therapist.
MD: When working on a shoot, what inspires your work?
MR: Color, textures, people, nature, music and patterns – I also draw inspiration from others, in a collaborative way.
MD: How does your preparation differ when doing an outdoor shoot versus a shoot inside a studio?
MR: The equipment and makeup kit I bring on location would be smaller than what I would bring to a studio. I also need to pack for the elements on a location shoot, such as sunscreen and umbrellas.
MD: What is a must-have we would always find in your bag?
MR: Egyptian Magic (multi-purpose balm) and Mario Badescu‘s Rosewater spray are always with me!
MR: Shantaram – for the third time!
MD: What’s your most memorable shoot you have done thus far?
MR: My most memorable shoots have to be when I test shoot with creatives, as this allows me to color outside the lines so to speak and to explore the art in our craft.
MD: Who or which brand would you love to work with and haven’t yet?
MR: I would love to work closely with a makeup brand that I respect and love. [And,] being in the lab, creating new must-haves and seeing it come to fruition – the dream!
MD: What lesson have you learned that you wish you would have known at the start of your career?
MR: Understanding more thoroughly the impact of lighting on makeup and not being afraid to take risks.
MD: What advice would you offer those looking to become a makeup artist?
MR: Be brave enough to take the leap, be creative and play to your own tune. Stay humble and always be willing to keep learning.
MD: Can you leave us with a makeup tip that always works or one that you have learned during your career?
MR: Do your lower lashes first when applying Mascara. Invest in good skincare. Hyaluronic acid serum on liquid matte lipstick buys you a few of hours of extra moisture and stops cracking.
Connect with Maria:
Instagram @mariarivera_mua
Facebook @mariariveramakeup
mariariveramakeup.com
Maria is represented by:
Arc Creative
Shop the Interview:
Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream
Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Rosewater
Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts
Tom Ford Beauty
