Conversations with Lillian Paulk

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lillian Paulk.

Lillian, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Lillian Paulk. I am a special makeup effects (SFX) artist currently located in California.
Since age 7, I have been fascinated by all things makeup; from beauty, to Special Effects- I truly enjoy it all. One of the most challenging and rewarding decisions in my life was moving from my hometown, Temple, Texas, to California to pursue this career. Before this move I was torn between beauty and SFX; not confident in where my true passion may lay. It wasn’t until after completing professional training at Makeup Designory that I found my niche; creating monsters and replicating the most gruesome wounds. I spent so much time trying to fit into the “palatable” beauty side of makeup, but now I’m choosing to throw myself into the deep end and chase after what I really love.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Jump-starting my career hasn’t always been the smoothest journey. Being a Makeup Artist is so much more than just creating the art. Networking, putting myself out there, and building connections is the majority of my job. Thankfully, I have never been afraid to talk to a stranger, especially about something I love. Despite that, networking can only get you so far. Working in entertainment really makes you ask yourself- are you willing to work for the love the art alone? That was something that was difficult for me to concider in the beginning of my career. Looking back now I am so grateful I chose to focus on my craft and building genuine friendships rather than focusing only on the next connection. I now only see obstacles as opportunities to grow, learn, and perfect my art.

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?
Mainly I work in film; creating monsters, hyper realistic wounds, and morphing people into something never thought possible. In addition to film I take private clients who have look they want to bring to life- anything from beauty to SFX.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice to those wanting to get into Special Makeup Effects is never stop learning. Be a sponge; absorb all positive and negative feedback, always be willing to learn, and never become so prideful that you stop doing the first two.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeupby._.lilly/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@makeupby._.lilly?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc