One of the most talked about makeup looks of the 2015 Golden Globe Awards was Taylor Schilling's classic yet modern adaptation of Grace Kelly. The woman behind the look was none other than New York-based celebrity makeup artist and E! Style Collective member Tina Turnbow.
As the makeup artist for Patricia Arquette, Marisa Tomei, Amanda Peet and Keri Russell, it's obvious that Tina is sought after for more than just her skills with a brush. The beauty guru is truly dedicated to her clients, makeup and finding inspiration, whether that is '70s punk and photography or New York City itself. She expresses herself through beauty but let's really see how she came and conquered the wonderful world of makeup.
Where are you from originally?
I'm from Chicago, Illinois.
Tell us a little bit about growing up.
I grew up in the suburbs, which was nice as a kid having a backyard. Then my family moved to the city, and I went to high school there. So I had a nice mix growing up of suburb and city life. When I was 18, we took a trip to NYC. I knew then that I would live here someday!
Tell me about the first time you noticed makeup or the concept of makeup. What about it sang to you?
As a young teen noticing my mom apply her makeup, she was a beauty! I was fascinated by what makeup could do! I used to make up my face constantly! My dad was a hairdresser. He also painted. I started sketching women's faces in a notebook at 13. Then I would constantly have my head in fashion magazines studying models. I first fell in love with the work of Pat McGrath and Dick Page.
What was your first job?
Hmm…bussing tables, hostessing, cocktail waitress, retail sales and bakery cashier. I first started selling makeup in a department store, once I started my lifelong affair with it.
What would you tell the younger you?
Move to New York sooner than I did!
How did you start working in makeup?
My friend was managing a photographer's studio in Chicago. I visited the studio on a day that they were shooting a makeup artist's composite card. That's when I figured out what I could do with my interest. So I put together my sketches and did my makeup really nice and met with Elite Model Management to get started testing with models so I could start a portfolio. They saw potential and gave me a chance. Once I moved to NYC my book had enough good images to help me get assisting work.
Assisting is so important. I learned hands on, from trial and error, watching and being a sponge!
What brought you out of assisting and on to a path of your own?
I assisted for a few years. The best experience was doing fashion shows. That's where you learn to be good, fast and it opens you up creatively. I don't think you can put a timeframe to it. I just kept open to experiences and opportunities. Tenacity is a good quality to have. I'm always learning and assisting in some shape or form, if that makes sense.
After years of jump-up-and-down opportunities, how does that excitement stay fresh?
I'm a jumper! You can ask my agent. She's been on the receiving end of my excitement many times. I have such a love of painting, of color, and of enhancing a woman's natural unique beauty of every shape, color and age. A new client is like a fresh canvas. Clients I've been doing are special to me and if it's been a while since I've seen them, I'm so happy to paint away and to figure out new looks and colors to work with.
What is a trend that you're happy isn't joining us in 2015?
Bronzing, over-contouring, fake lash overkill.
Whose work blows your mind and why?
That's tough. I admire so many. I just loved Rachel Goodwin's work on Emma Stone for the SAGs. I admire the work of Linda Hay, Genevieve Herr, and Fabiola. Their makeup is always flawless and flattering. Lucia Peroni, Dick Page and Stephane Marais are amazing artists.
What makeup look, film, music video, etc., would you have loved to work on?
I'm a huge fan of '50s glam so Madmen or The Americans doing punk, '70s and '80s get-ups. I would NOT turn down doing makeup on a Blondie or Stevie Nicks' video!
Whose Instagram account do you heart up most lately?
So many! Actress Jane Birkin, Lou Doillon, and Anna Karina. Photographers Spencer Mandell, Eric T White and Mario Sorrenti. Michael Kozak and Jessica Paster amazing stylists.
What about makeup has you so obsessed?
It keeps getting better and better! Product consistency and pigmentation. The color ranges have me obsessed…I love me some color!
With a busy schedule, how do you stay current?
I walk everywhere so I'm constantly taking in everything, including style on the street and magazines as I walk by. Also, I love Pinterest and Refinery29 for a mix of everything.
What is your favorite medium to work for? Film, photo, runway, etc?
I was just wishing I was in the union for makeup. I would love the option of working with an awesome client on a film project. So that's on my to-do list! I love photo, runway and red carpet.
Working with a client is like a dance. You can feel if you vibe right away or not. How do you work through it when it's off?
I'm pretty sensitive to this type of situation. Typical Cancer. Ha. It's so important to feel out what that person needs. I do my best to go with the flow and adjust my sails. If a person is quiet or is focused on going out on stage or a red carpet, it's important to give them space, focus on your task at hand and make them feel good.
What are some misconceptions about makeup that you've come across?
That it will work magic on its own. It's the mix of internal and external care and love that produces the most beautiful result.
How has your makeup style evolved in the last two years even?
I think I'm a bit more daring with drawing and color. I'm more particular about perfecting the complexion; it's the most important part and therefore skin care is key!
What would you have like to accomplish by the end of this year?
Working on my photography—it helps me evolve as a makeup artist by working with the face and light more closely. It's a great form of study and expression to me. Working on expanding my makeup reach, including the film union idea.
Ideal weekend off?
Taking photos, power walks with blasting music, a movie and checking out a band or art show, cooking and of course hanging with my pups.
What is your favorite part of the makeup process? Eyeliner? Lips?
Mascara because it makes the eyes blossom!
Who do you sing in the shower?
I don't actually!
Even though I'm sure you get sent a million fun products, do you still love makeup shopping?
I actually always seek out natural products and cosmetics wherever I am. But, yes, I love snooping around cosmetic counters and I like obscure pharmacies.
What is something people would find surprising in your makeup kit?
It's very pared down and compact. I'm a minimalist for sure.
What's your go-to Starbucks drink?
Black coffee, straight up.
What's your theme song?
"Never Going Back Again" by Fleetwood Mac!
Are you on the dance floor or the one watching?
DANCING!
Who is your best friend?
My dogs are a gal's best friend.
What's your favorite part about you?
My heart, perhaps.