Agrika Kalra, celebrity makeup artist gives an insight into the makeup industry
“Faces are like canvas”- Agrika Kalra
Makeup is that one word which puts glamour in the industry. We all have been fascinated by its magic at some point in our lives. It not only has the ability to change how one looks but can also give one the confidence to face the day. Be those simple kohl lined eyes or a heavy mascara, makeup definitely holds the power to put the ‘I’ in your ‘Identity’.
Agrika Kalra is a part of this charming industry and a well-known face amongst celebrities. She is an internationally certified celebrity makeup artist with her own salon and studio.
Apart from doing makeup for some big names like Huma Qureshi, Bhagyashree, Rashmi Desai, and many others, she has received many awards and accolades for her work.
In order to get a better understanding of the makeup industry, we had a little chat with her.
What inspired you to become a makeup artist?
I used to help my dad design cakes but then realized that I wanted my canvas to be human faces and not cakes. So, I enrolled for courses in make-up and prosthetics, and will soon also, be a certified cosmetologist.
What is your strength in make-up artistry?
I would say instilling confidence in my clients, whether as a bride or a model walking the ramp or facing a camera, is my strength. A makeup artist is one who enhances or alters the physical appearance of a client. I was always creative and faces are like a canvas on which I can work to enhance someone’s beauty and help them gain confidence.
What were some of the challenges you had to face when you started out?
At the beginning of my career, it was not easy to get work, and if I got work, it didn’t allow me to promote it. Slowly I built my clientele and I think word of mouth publicity is the best, as it helped me to be who I am today. Also, social media has really helped me to get a lot of clients and students for my academy.
What are the brands and products you always use?
I prefer high-end brands like Dior, Chanel, Laura Mercier, and so on. As an artist, it is important to use trusted brands because it will be applied on someone’s skin and we cannot take that lightly.
What are your future goals?
I want to work harder in my salon and academy, and also launch my own cosmetic products line across the world.
What is your view on the make-up industry of India, as it stands today?
Today, it is growing fast and providing a lot of opportunities to newcomers. They can work for stars in theatre, television, and films, as they need an expert make-up artist. So, from where I can see, the future of this industry is bright.
What is your advice to makeup artists who are just entering the line?
We all know practice makes perfect, and make-up artistry is no exception. Whether it is trying out different looks on yourself or your friends, the more you do it, the better you will be. Practice is the key. My advice is to work hard and success will come to you.
