Born in California, Gilbert Soliz has been influenced by his parents, who were hairdressers. His career includes working with renowned fashion designers and famed makeup artists such as Kabuki and Pat McGrath, in addition to serving as Lead Artist at Sephora PRO for three years, before being announced Marc Jacobs Beauty’s International Makeup Artist, product developer, creative-artistic director and global brand ambassador.
Azyaamode had the chance to interview the Mexican-American makeup artist and ask him about his influence, vision for makeup, tips for an ideal daily makeup look and much more.
How did your interest in makeup start?
Growing up, both my parents did hair, so I spent most my time running around the salon. My mom loves makeup so she’s always been a big influence on my career.
To what extent do you think makeup plays a significant role in a woman’s life?
Makeup becomes a part of a woman’s routine as she matures. There are different experiences you have with makeup while growing up. You continue to learn different styles, brands etc. I think your personal style also changes over time and becomes more refined.
Is there a tip you could give Middle Eastern women to help them get a modernly subtle makeup look for the day?
Use neutrals, shimmery browns, golden or bronzy shades and swap out black liner with a dark chocolate brown. The idea is that you opt to use lighter shades instead of deep dark colors.
In addition to being a makeup artist, you are also a trainer. How do you share your expertise with the artists?
It generally depends on the audience. I like to assess the artist and see what it is that they truly need in terms of development then from there, I’m able to customize the content being trained.
You believe in the power of makeup. Can you tell us more about that?
Being made up, or applying makeup to yourself is empowering, it builds confidence and when you look good you feel good.
As an international makeup artist, you must travel regularly. What is your favorite destination for a relaxing getaway?
I love any place with warm, sunny weather and I love being by the beach. I just recently visited Sitges in Spain and fell in love with the Spanish coastal line.
What are the essential things you could never leave home without?
Some type of lip balm for dry lips. In fact, using them has become a habit for me and I can’t get enough of them. It’s safe to say I have at least 3 on me at any given time.
Tell us about a coffee table book you found interesting.
“Every person in New York” by Jason Polan. He set his goal to draw every person in New York, from food truck chefs to celebrities. So, this block of a book includes thousands of New Yorkers captured in unlikely poses – sleeping, eating, sighting, etc.
Mirella Haddad
