Today we’d like to introduce you to Keshia Mercado.
Keshia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Just like everyone fresh out of high school, I went straight to a community college. I thought I would be able to get my liberal arts degree to work with children. Halfway through the process, I felt that it wasn’t for me and decided to pursue my passion for Special Effects makeup. I did my research to see which makeup schools were the best. The one that I had fell in love with was Elegance International. I worked with some of the best teachers and had learned a lot in different areas of makeup. I learned the basics, theater, high fashion, how to sculpt and create props, also how to do HDTV and film makeup.
I graduated last year in April and have been trying to get my portfolio up and running. I would look high and low to be able to do makeup on a model. It takes a lot of patience to find someone who would respond to your emails and let you know they’re interested in collaborating with you. With the encouragement of my fiancé and my amazing friends, I never gave up. I work with 3 of the best photographers I have met and they always contact me whenever they need a helping hand in the makeup department. I love being a Makeup Artist!
I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the support my mom and fiancé gave me.
Has it been a smooth road?
It hasn’t always been smooth down the road. There would be days where I wouldn’t get any replies back to my emails I sent out to collaborate with a model or photographer. There were also days where I couldn’t find any paid gigs, just TFP’s. But I persevered and decided to look harder and find paid gigs.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was a shy kid and was in love with watching horror movies or anything with special effects makeup. I was so intrigued with the transformation of people in movies. If it wasn’t for my mom’s love for horror and sci-fi films I don’t think I would be on the path that I am on now.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite memories from childhood is when my mom had taken my sister and I to go see the Lion King play, as well as taking me to go see a Cirque du Soleil show. I thought it was amazing. From the makeup all the way down to the crazy stunts, I was in awe. I loved every minute of it. I don’t think I could thank her enough for taking me to these great shows.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
My plans for the future of course like any girl in the world is to make a name for myself. I am looking forward to all the adventures to come with doing makeup and all the support that I’m getting from my fiancé and family members. If it wasn’t for my fiancé pushing me, I don’t think I would be where I am today. It definitely makes me want to give my all and make it into this industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.keshiaspfx.wix.com/makeup-pro
- Phone: 8188020213
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Made.up.by.kesh
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/made.up.by.kesh/
