Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Van Horn.
Hi Shannon, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up, I was always obsessed with makeup, glamour, and beauty… I poured over fashion and beauty magazines, went to the movies every week, and lived for the Academy Awards. I loved all things Hollywood and knew that I would end up there someday. I was ready to be the next “it”girl.
I graduated from college with a degree in Theatre, where I was trained in all types of makeup techniques. I was also given the opportunity to be the teacher’s assistant for my stage makeup class, an opportunity that probably shaped my career in ways I never realized. It made me appreciate my love of teaching and allowed me to utilize my theatre degree in a way that I hadn’t yet considered.
After I graduated, I moved to Los Angeles. After a couple of years of trying to “make it big” as a model and actress, I decided to switch gears and focus on my training as a makeup artist. Soon after, I landed a job with MAC Cosmetics. They were the leaders of the industry at that time, and it was a huge accomplishment for an artist just starting out in the industry. My job at MAC ultimately led me to their Artist Training and Development Department. At MAC, I was privy to many incredible career opportunities. Multiple seasons of NY Fashion Week, the Grammy Awards, and a myriad of celebrity interactions, just to name a few. Additionally, I formed lasting friendships and honed my skill with some of the best makeup artists in the world.
Several years into my career, after leaving MAC, I had traveled and lived in many cities in the US and worked as a makeup artist steadily. Having the flexibility of being my own boss allowed me to be with my family, and to work in my field as much or as little as I wanted.
In 2018, my family and I relocated back to Los Angeles. After having been gone since 2007, I had to start rebuilding my career. I’d been working steadily as a makeup artist for several years, but when I got back to LA, it was essentially like starting over. I had just turned 43, and the prospect seemed overwhelming to say the least. Nevertheless, I slowly started rebuilding my connections and celebrity client list. Little did I know that a global pandemic was on the horizon.
Enter March of 2020. I had just finished a busy and successful Oscar season that culminated on February 9th, 2020 with The Academy Awards. That was the last day I worked as a makeup artist for a very long time.
During the pandemic, I predominately kept myself inspired with editorial photoshoots. I connected with a small team of artists that also wanted to keep their skills sharp and stay creatively fulfilled, all while staying safe from Covid 19. We worked together off and on and kept each other motivated and excited about the art we were creating. My artist community saved me for sure.
After two very slow years and doubting if things would ever return to normal within the world and our industry, I was lucky enough to join a new agency in Los Angeles, The Taylor Christian Agency.
Within the past six months, work has been rapidly increasing as award shows, concerts, commercials, and photoshoots are back in (semi) full swing.
While my celebrity clients remain my focus, I am also working with a dear friend, and fellow makeup artist, to launch our own beauty brand. We hope to be up and running in the next year or so and are excited for this next chapter in our lives.
We all face challenges but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There are always going to be struggles, but I try to reframe them as opportunities to learn and grow as an artist.
I’ve been screamed at during NY Fashion Week (who hasn’t?!), hit on by clients, talked down to by people that think they’re important, etc. The job is not as glamorous at times and most people assume, and that’s okay.
It can be discouraging in a market like Los Angeles, (where literally everyone is a makeup artist), to secure the jobs or clientele you want. I’ve always loved the saying “What is meant for you will find you” – and I remind myself of that regularly. I have a wonderful agent who isn’t afraid to fight for me, and that is truly a game-changer for me in this industry.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
My specialty is “personal appearance” makeup and grooming. I predominately work with actors and musicians to make sure they look and feel their best for special events. Additionally, I enjoy working with various magazines to help create their fashion and celebrity editorials.
If you’re asking me what I’m known for, that’s a tough one. Makeup-wise, I probably am known for highlighting my clients to death. I love to focus on skin. Creating beautiful skin has always been important to me.
I hope that my professional, yet relaxed demeanor, sets me apart in the industry, as well as my ability to stay calm during high-stress situations. I love working on big, exciting events with my clients and am always rooting for them. I truly find joy in seeing others succeed.
I am incredibly fortunate to work with some phenomenal clients and am ultimately grateful for each person and experience.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
It can be an intimidating industry, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be assertive in challenging situations. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re unhappy with something. Having been doing this for over 20 years, I am a much different artist now than when I was first starting out. Over the years, I have learned to stand up for myself more often, know my worth, and to not take things so personally. When I was younger, I was more concerned with being liked and being nice; Now I realize that being respected and happy is more important.
You’re only as good as your last job, so bring your “A” game every time. Always maintain your professionalism and never compromise your standards or beliefs to get a job… there will ALWAYS be other jobs.
Maintain and nurture your professional relationships. Don’t give up, don’t ever stop honing your skill, don’t let your ego get in the way, and stay open to opportunities.
Keep yourself inspired, support other artists, cultivate your artistic community, and don’t take yourself too seriously; it’s just lipstick after all.
I’m proud of the career I have today. It’s not perfect, but it’s something I created from the ground up, and it has afforded me some truly memorable experiences. I’ve had lots of help along the way, so I make it a point to be a resource for other artists in my community whether they are tenured or just starting out.
I have been so Blessed, and I truly love what I do. I look forward to the future and to the art that I have yet to create.
Contact Info:
- Booking: info@taylorchrisagency.com
- Website: www.shannonvanhorn.com
- Instagram: @makeupbysvh @beautyreviewsbysvh
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makeupbysvh
Image Credits
Shannon Van Horn Headshot Credit: Photography by Cynthia Garcia Blond male model, male model in scarf, green haired male model all photograph credits to: Daniel Jae Olivia Male body painted model credit: Cathy Sunu Female blonde model with yellow eyeshadow and Female model in braids with blue jacket: Photo credit: Tony Redmer Female model in orange strapless top photo credit: Bailey Mingo Female model in visor with smokey eye photo credit: Phú Nguyēn
