Three students from the Cerritos College Cosmetology Department showcased their artistry in makeup at the Health Science Building on Jan. 28.
The students were inspired by films such as “Black Swan” and “Mulan,” as well as creating a color-inspired peacock.
Instructor in the Cosmetology Department, Scott Botma, thinks that there is a lot of art involved when it comes to this profession.
“You have to use your creative side and creative vision. It has the same principles as art; shapes, design, and line proportion,” Botma said.
Art major Kimberly Ortega is also in agreement that art and cosmetology intertwine.
“Cosmetology and art share similarities because in cosmetology you use the face as a canvas, and make-up, skin care and nail care would be their medium. They create unique works of art on an individual,” Ortega said.
Even though cosmetology and art share similarities, it has been noticed by Debbie Perret, adjunct cosmetology anesthetics instructor, that cosmetology is where art majors tend to resort to, with their creative talent.
“We definitely cater to the artsy students, as well as the students who like to work around people.
“It’s cool we have a lot of creative projects where we work with hair color and different braiding. Hair cuts to form an art piece, we have shows that depict that, we have competitions that go to different areas in Southern California as well,” Perret said.
Creativity isn’t the only thing these artists are being trained in, according to cosmetology major Alissa Goetz, who said they are also taught to use disinfection, sanitation and learn some basics of anatomy.
Amanda Gomez, cosmetology major, said, “You have to practice a lot, and remember formulas and anatomy so that you will know how to do hairstyles and makeup to go with your client’s face.”
Perret mentioned that cosmetology students study the art of color and are taught chemistry, electricity, and color wheels.
Ortega said forms of art are based on their appearance and meaning and are temporary images that once created only lasts in pictures or memories.
“I would compare cosmetology to a performance. You can’t save a live performance of a musical unless it is recorded in some way, but it’s not the same. You can take a picture of someone’s hair and makeup, but it’s not the same as it is in person, their appearance will only last that night.”
