Today we’d like to introduce you to Liza Macawili.
Hi Liza, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
It’s been quite a ride having a 30 year career as a performing artist, makeup artist and fine artist. Let’s get reacquainted. After high school, I worked as a dancer for Disney, Knotts Berry Farm, Universal Studios, The Los Angeles Rams and I was a member of SAG/AFTRA, AEA and AGVA. I also got my esthetician license and I was working as a makeup artist as my side gig. When I retired from dance and tour life I went into makeup full-time. I was really fortunate early on and was the regular makeup artist for Lowrider Magazine and several of the other publications under the Primedia/TEN/Motor Trend umbrella including Hot Rod Deluxe and Super Street Bike. I was also on the Trucco Makeup Team and we traveled the world doing makeup for hair shows, fashion shows, and education. It was an exciting time, but in this business, it’s important to learn that change is inevitable. When the recession hit in 2009 and budgets were cut, I had to reinvent my career and I started to focus on e-commerce, since print was starting to die down. I was able to work with several brands regularly including Hot Topic, Torrid, Zappos and Nordstrom. When both of my parents got sick I had to figure out a way to take care of them and still work and I was able to a secure a job at the NFL Network, which was my dream job, where I had the flexibility and stability to take care of my parents, who needed round the clock care.
During the covid quarantine we were laid-off from the network and I picked up art to ease my anxiety and depression. My art took on a new life and it has been exhibited throughout Southern California and in 2023 I was a Lakers in the Paint Grantee. I was rehired by the NFL Network and 2 seasons later I was laid-off with the rest of the department and I had to reinvent myself again. I joined The makeup union, IATSE Local 706, but it was right after covid quarantine, the writers and actors strike and contract negotiations so it has been really slow. Sadly, my mom passed away in July of 2024, so I took a sabbatical and did a lot of soul searching. I decided to go back to school for my cosmo/barber license. I will be attending school at the end of April.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Life is always full of surprises. Nothing prepared me for taking care of both of my parents with Alzheimer’s and dementia. I took care of mom for 4 years and both parents for 8 more years. It was extremely difficult to try to hold on to a career and take care of all of their needs. I had to juggle family members and caregivers when I wasn’t home so I couldn’t work too much. I stopped all travel. I watched my colleague’s careers flourish with Vogue covers, beauty campaigns and tours with pop stars while I had to stay home. I just tried to remember to stay in my lane and understand that I had a different path to take. If it weren’t for all of those quiet nights at home with them, I would have never found my voice in art. The art world has brought me so much joy. And although it was hard, I am glad I got to take care of my mom until the end.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a makeup artist and fine artist. As a makeup artist I’m known for being reliable, versatile, and for bringing a warm presence to the set. As a fine artist I’m known for highlighting the beauty and light of the people I draw. My favorite experience as a makeup artist was working the Super Bowl and having my team, The Rams, win! As a fine artist I’m most proud of being chosen as a Lakers in the Paint Grantee, and having my work in Howard University’s literary journal: The Amistad, highlighting my work for social justice.
What sets me apart from others is resilience. When I get knocked down, I try to find a positive spin on the situation and make it work for me.
How do you define success?
Success to me is living in the present. It is not comparing myself to anyone and being grateful for the gifts I’ve been given. When I was younger success meant racking up brands and accolades. Now success means stability. Success is being able to spend time with my fiancé, friends and family and enjoying life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lizamakeup.com
- Instagram: @lizamakeup @sketchyoldbroad @lizaonset
- Twitter: @lizamakeup
- Other: https://artslb.org/artists/liza-macawili/
Image Credits
Wes Kroninger
Saryn Christina
