How does The Glam Academy work?
We start by changing the way the student sees makeup through an engaging and thought provoking classroom environment. Sprinkled with activities to introduce the student to their own capacity as an individual—it is these very critical days that change the lens the student views both makeup and its new impact on their lives.
With a newfound knowledge- the student goes into what is a called a “Lab.” A lab is where the students are able to take the education they have learned and apply these new skill sets to their artistry. Each lab is different and is based on a particular look that is the focus of the day; a “theme” if you will. Each look is based on allowing the student to explore a range of techniques and styles that will ultimately be a testament to their independent range as an artist. We bring in a variety of models so that students have new fresh faces to work on each time. Not only does this keep the time in the classroom concentrated (students never waste time working on each other) but gives an incredible amount of variety to the students portfolio. Before the lab, Alexa gives the framework for the look by doing a demonstration or “demo” (where a makeup artist demonstrates a complete look) on a model. By taking the “look” and dissecting it down to a technical level, revealing all of the processes with thorough and detailed explanation and demo- the student is able to visually see the entire formula and construction. During the demo we provide the students with demo outlines that allow them to create their own roadmap for the respective look so they have a point of reference during the lab.
Of course each student’s “signature” flair will eventually be recognizable across various looks. However, before they reach a place where they are taking creative control, it is extremely important that they are able to translate these very common “looks” in the makeup world. Its a simple as pastry- learn how to bake a red velvet cake properly before you worry about the rosettes in the frosting. The same for makeup- learn the principle techniques guided by shadow and light before you create variations of them.
Many artists are notorious for one particular look. And while that may be wonderful for all of the clients that are looking for that precise combo, it limits that artist to a world of clients. Many clients view an artist’s own makeup as a reflection of their actual artistic range. By having actual images that shows an artists ability to translate not just one, but any look, they are opening themselves up to a much wider range of clientele.
For every lab, Alexa shoots the models with the same lighting equipment used for magazine covers. We try in every way to simulate the real work. By having a full blown photoshoot for every lab- we are able to see if the work rises up to the standards of modern technology. More simply- is the makeup fighting against, or working with the photo?
Also we try to make the students understand that their responsibility as artists is beyond the face. The more they understand that they are creating a composition the more they want to take ownership of all the areas that will make their portfolio image complete. Whether its perfecting the hair, adding jewelry, using wardrobe that doesn’t clash with the background, etc.- the artist is only increasing their value in the real world. Not to mention how wonderful they feel when they look at en entire image and feel a sense of ownership in everything- the pose, the wardrobe, the hair, the makeup, the set etc.
By having each lab end with a photoshoot- the student not only has incredible images for their portfolio, but can truly see the transition of their work throughout the semester.
As the student is soaking in the world of makeup they are also slowly being introduced to a variety of tools to develop them individually into their own business. With small achievable steps discouragement is never an issue. By making these steps “homework” assignments– the work required of the individual is not left at the Academy and requires them to continually work both on their artistry and their business. As a result, the student that leaves the program is a byproduct of not only the hours exclusive to the program, but all the time in between where they were able to build and perfect their artistry and business.