Makeup artist Christine Lewis takes time to give us some tips on breaking into the beauty industry. She has done makeup for top NYC models, professional dancers, and a few celebrities. We love her precision, especially around the eyes, and enjoyed hearing what she had to say. Check out our interview and more photos:

MOSAMUSE: How did you know you wanted to be a makeup artist?

Christine Lewis: I wanted to be a makeup artist because of the satisfaction I get from seeing someone else happy after I do a makeup transformation. I chose the makeup profession because my goal is to help other people to see how beautiful they are from the inside and out.

MOSAMUSE: What was your first gig?

Christine: It has been a couple years for me. If I can remember correctly, my first gig had to be between doing makeup for Ieva Pauksena and Danny Quillam,  professional dancers, celebrities Fabien and Celine Cousteau for South Magazine, and I’ve also done portfolio work with countless models for agencies in New York City including Trump, Supreme, Marilyn, New York Models, One Agency and so on.

MOSAMUSE: We love your eye makeup because it’s so precise. Did you go to school to perfect your craft or are you self-taught?

Christine: I am self-taught because the technique that I use comes natural to me. The way I do makeup- I treat it as an art, I sometimes do what comes to my heart at the moment in bringing out the best from my subject. But, I must say I had a lot of hands-on experiences. And with hard work and dedication, you can become good at something. Even now, I feel makeup is a profession you continue to grow and get better. I would recommend schooling and a lot of hands-on experience.

MOSAMUSE: How do you continue to build your portfolio and client list?

Christine: You continue to build your portfolio ad clients list through connections and networking. Build good professional connections with photographers you worked with. Also, clients refering you to other clients, and companies you worked with will rebook you again for work and refer you to other companies. It is very important to network and put your work out there, and always keep a friendly personality and be professional always.

MOSAMUSE: What would you tell up-and-coming makeup artists who would love to do what you do?

Christine: I will let them know to always be confident and believe in their self and their craft. Always have an open mind and heart to learn something new. Be a team player and be determined in your dreams in times when things are tough because this profession is very competitive.

MOSAMUSE: Where can people see more of your work and book you for a shoot?

Christine: You can visit my website, blog, facebook, and tumblr.

We loved our interview with Christine Lewis. We hope you learned a lot and are very inspired! Whatever your passion is, be determined and stay professional!

How do you like Christine Lewis’ makeup artistry?