By: Alva Ree
Yukiko Fuse is a famous Japanese makeup artist driven by a deep passion for creating pure and timeless beauty. Inspired by diverse cultures and iconic figures like Pat McGrath, blending modern and classical aesthetics and with a background in both makeup artistry and language studies, Yukiko brings a unique perspective to the industry, striving to elevate beauty into a new art form.
What kind of makeup artist are you?
I’m the type of artist that is looking to create the most pure beauty I can. I’m an artist who aims to embody what I find beautiful through myself. Seeking to create works that are consistently perceived as beautiful, regardless of when they are viewed. “Seeing beautiful things” is a moment in my life where I feel fulfilled. It might sound exaggerated, but I believe it steers my heart in a positive direction, making life wonderful. I think art holds that much power.
What made you want to become a makeup artist?
My passion for makeup started when I was young, which led me to become a makeup artist. I realized again how much I enjoy makeup. I’ve been interested in makeup and fashion since middle school. The emergence of the first iPod helped me see the backstage of fashion shows. I watched the ‘FashionTV’ app every day, repeatedly. I got really immersed in it and became fascinated with makeup artists working backstage at fashion shows. Of course, seeing my grandmother and mother never going out without lipstick also made me feel the power of makeup, but the main trigger for my interest in becoming a makeup artist likely stemmed from those experiences. I had followed my dream since I was little, but, long story short; fortunately, I found my passion again in makeup.
What artists or shows have inspired you?
Particularly Pat McGrath. As for runway shows, it’s at Christian Dior designed by John Galliano. They inspired me the most.
Photo Courtesy: Yukiko Fuse
Why did you switch careers to become a makeup artist?
After returning to Japan from Dubai, I felt suffocated for a while. Reflecting on my life up to that point, I stopped and pondered for many years. Since I had plenty of time, I sought to break free from stagnation. I decided to try something new that I was interested in but had never done before and wasn’t completely good at yet. I chose makeup for what I was interested in and learning the Arabic language for what I struggled with. I experienced the period of COVID, but I graduated from both schools in about two years. What I can say in common is that both schools expanded my world. Regarding makeup, because of COVID, I had time to research its history and past advertisements, and I also ordered books from both domestic and overseas sources and read them. I’ve become very enthusiastic about makeup.
What is the most important aspect as a makeup artist?
It’s crucial to deeply understand and appreciate artistic nuances, both within myself and others and to continually refine these skills. At this stage in my life, I find that I can leverage my experience to excel and deliver an even better job.
What is your top strength?
I believe my strength lies in my exposure to diverse cultures and extensive travel experiences. Growing up, I was deeply influenced by my surroundings. My mother’s passion for the Japanese tea ceremony and her elegant kimono attire instilled in me a blend of modern and classical Japanese aesthetics. Additionally, thanks to my father’s influence, I had the opportunity to explore numerous countries, which sparked my curiosity about various cultures. Later on, I chose to work in Dubai, where I continued to immerse myself in multicultural environments.
Through these experiences, I’ve learned the importance of engaging with different cultures firsthand and appreciating their unique qualities within their own settings. As an artist, I’m committed to refining my senses and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds, drawing inspiration from these encounters to enrich my creative endeavors. I would like to collaborate with various people utilizing these experiences.
Check Yukiko’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/yucoco_3/
Published by: Khy Talara
