Getting to Know the Glam Squad: Makeup Artist Tina Turnbow

Get to know pro behind Keri Russell, Taylor Schilling and more stars

By Cinya Burton May 13, 2014 7:00 AMTags
Glam Squad, Tina Turnbow, Mary Louise-Parker, Amanda Peet, Keri Russell, Debra Messing, Larry Busacca, John Shearer, Angela Weiss, Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

Like many young girls, as soon as Tina Turnbow reached adolescent she became obsessed with makeup. But her passion for the eyeliner and foundation wasn't simply a passing phase—it was her calling. So she spent the next few decades doing what she loved: creating stunning beauty looks. Not surprisingly her talents soon lead her to Hollywood where she has worked with stars such as Keri Russell, Amanda Peet and Mary Louise Parker.

Here's what Tina had to share about her journey to glam squad member status:

How did you get your start as a makeup artist?
I began sketching women's faces at 13-years-old—that's when it all began! I didn't have any photos to show, so I put a bunch of my drawings together and went to Elite Model Agency in my hometown of Chicago. They got me started with model tests to build a portfolio.

What was your big break?
Once I moved to New York City, I was able to get started assisting some really great makeup artists.  Brooke Wall, the founder of the agency The Wall Group, saw something in my work and brought me on board. I'm so grateful to her opening that door for me.

Rob Kim/Getty Images; Taylor Hill/FilmMagic

What are a few of your favorite red carpet looks that you've created?
I recently did Amanda Peet's makeup for the Game of Thrones premiere and I thought she looked lovely! I liked Keri Russell's look for PaleyFest 2013 and also Taylor Schilling for the "Orange is the New Black" premiere last year.

What was a near-fiasco that you've had to deal with?
A near fiasco was while zipping up my client's dress the zipper came apart about five minutes before she had to leave for a red carpet event. Needless to stay, I stay far away from zippers now!

What items are always in your kit?
I always have Colbert MD Illumino Face Oil and Jurlique Day Cream to massage and hydrate skin. Another staple is the awesome Radiance Foundation Primer by Laura Mercier and every NARS lip liner made!

What new item are you currently obsessed with?
My latest obsession would be Charlotte Tilbury's Bronze and Glow.

What is your favorite drug store buy?
Two classics: L'Oreal Paris Voluminous mascara and Aveeno Brightening Daily Radiance Scrub.

What about your fave high-end splurge?
For a high-end splurge I'd say Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation and Tata Harper skin care.

What's the best thank-you gift you've ever received?
The best thank you gift is every time I know I've helped make a client feel pretty and confident. Seeing them smile and say "I love it" is the best!

Who have you been working with the longest?
My makeup history goes way back with Amanda Peet and Mary Louise Parker—and gratefully so!

To see more of Tina's work check out her Twitter.