INDUSTRY INSIGHTS Tell us a little about yourself. I’m a makeup artist who lives in NYC. Makeup is my second career, having worked as a professional dancer for a bunch of years before evolving into makeup. I have a wonderful supportive family, I am a huge fan of the absurd, and I strive to see the world with tourist eyes( but without judgement.)
Best part of the job? Everyday is a new experience. It’s like have perpetual work one nite stands. I work with some really talented, cool, fun-loving, caring folks. Having a variety of jobs/clients from baby magazines to drug companies, e commerce to a few celebs. I appreciate the variedness Worst part of the job?
Where did you grow up?
Oh that kit can get heavy, and I rarely take a taxi or car service. I get some kooky stares on the subway. Eye rolls like “here comes another tourist”
Canton, Ohio, Enkoping, Sweden, Ann arbor, MI, north Carolina and the East Village.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Describe yourself in three words. curious. Whimsical. Gypsy. How did you get started in the industry? Did you always want to be a make up artist?
I discovered pottery over a year ago. I can’t get enough of it. In taking pottery classes I have discovered the most amazing community of artist at my studio La Mano Pottery in Chelsea. I love movies and live performances, swimming, taking a nap and a little trash tv.
When I retired from my dance career, I wound up back in Ohio sleeping on my moms couch wondering what the hell to do next. I had no plan b. I went to the mall and while there a little voice inside told me“ you want to do make up” it was such a completely random thought from god only knows where. Luckily I recoginized the voice, because it was the same voice that told over and over again you want to be a dancer. I had an amazing career with dance so I listened. When I was filling out my application the person in charge of HR saw me can called me in for an interview. The next day I met her and the manager of the cosmetic dept. told them I didn’t k now a thing about retail makeup but with my theater background and being a gay man, show me once and I can make it happen. I was hired on the spot. And then I had to learn how to do makeup.
How do you like living in NYC? Could you see yourself living anywhere else?
Whats the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
Plans for the future?
The only competition you ever have is with yourself! You can’t hurry love. It requires had work, if it came in a bottle, everyone would have it.
I have spent most of my adult life here, fortunate enough to always live in manhattan. It is my home and gives me so much. I have been spoiled by the accessibility and convenience of everything. Could I live anywhere else. Hell yeah. I moved out of NYC 2x before. As long as I’m comfortable in my skin and my partner John and our Pit bull Percy are with me..... I’m home. Advice for aspiring make up artists? You will work hard. When possible keep kit and attitude light. Clients will continue to hire you for the experience you create, it’s not just about a smokey eye. Always test. Keep your eyes and focus on your own career. Know your worth.
Dream big. Stay grounded. Have fun. website: GreggHubbard.org Agency: Berstein Andruilli. BA-reps.com twitter: greggmakeupnyc Instagram: greggmakeupnyc
Any simple beauty tips? Don’t smoke. Use SPF everyone! What motivates you? Improving my skill set, constantly developing my eye, adding to my pool of references. Eating.
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