Are you a creative individual with a passion for bringing characters to life on the big screen? Do you dream of working behind the scenes in the dynamic world of film and television, where every brushstroke and hairpin contributes to the magic of storytelling? If so, a hair, wig, and makeup apprenticeship might just be the perfect ticket. Launch your career in the captivating world of entertainment today!
The Art of Transformation: A Versatile Role
From theatre to TV, film to fashion, and commercials to editorial shoots, hair, wigs, and makeup technicians play a pivotal role in shaping the visual narratives that captivate audiences. These creative artists uphold the highest standards of hygiene and technical application to achieve various looks for diverse artists, periods, and cultures while adhering to health and safety requirements.
Their craftsmanship involves a diverse array of techniques, including hair cutting, colouring, setting, and preparing hair for wigs. They master the art of creating and styling wigs, facial hair, and postiche work, utilizing methods such as fitting, knotting, weaving, and sewing to achieve seamless integration. Furthermore, their expertise extends to makeup application, ranging from character makeup to special effects that require extensive research and skillful execution. Additionally, they delve into the realm of prosthetics, creating realistic effects for injuries, bald caps, body parts, and more…
Straight from the silver screen
To give a little context for where you could be, Hollywood makeup effects artist David White called Nebula’s design from the now, highly anticipated Guardians of the Galaxy movies, the “most complex and interesting” of any of the Guardians, and likened it to putting together a 3-D puzzle. Speaking with Business Insider, White said, “The five-piece prosthetic was a puzzle of butt joins and blend-offs, all on the same pieces, and the density of the prosthetic changes to accommodate the need to control the amount of prosthetic movement from one piece to another.”
Read More: https://www.looper.com/157176/how-karen-gillan-transformed-into-nebula/
A Collaborative Journey
Hair, wigs, and makeup technicians don’t work in isolation; they form an essential part of a creative team that includes designers and directors. Understanding the vision of each role, be it a historical character or a futuristic being, they collaborate closely with performers to ensure consistent and accurate portrayals. This demands careful attention to detail, keeping meticulous records of designs, and reference materials to recreate looks faithfully.
During rehearsals and actual performances, these technicians remain on standby to assist artists with quick changes, adapting hairstyles and makeup as the narrative unfolds. Working hand-in-hand with other departments like art, production, technical, and costume, they contribute to a harmonious and seamless production process.
What to Expect: Challenges and Rewards
Being a hair, wigs, and makeup technician in the film and TV industry is a rewarding yet demanding journey. The responsibility of staying within budget and meeting project deadlines requires discipline and resourcefulness. Yet, the satisfaction of seeing their creative contributions come to life on the screen makes every challenge worthwhile.
Beyond technical skills, these professionals must master interpersonal abilities, forging strong relationships with artists and clients alike. A respectful and sensitive approach is vital when dealing with performers, particularly during moments when they require care and attention.
The Apprenticeship Advantage
If you’re an aspiring creative seeking entry into the film and TV industry, an apprenticeship in hair, wigs, and makeup is the gateway to unparalleled opportunities. Unlike traditional academic routes, an apprenticeship provides hands-on, real-world experience that no classroom can replicate.
Under the guidance of experienced mentors, apprentices gain exposure to diverse projects and challenges, developing a versatile skill set that prepares them for the multifaceted nature of the industry. As they work alongside seasoned professionals, they absorb invaluable knowledge, industry best practices, and the importance of maintaining high hygiene standards and technical precision.
Moreover, an apprenticeship opens doors to networking opportunities, connecting you with potential employers, casting directors, and fellow creatives who can play instrumental roles in your future career. Who knows, you could be working with the very stars on your television or cinema screen right now.
Expect The Unexpected with The Following Opportunities…
- Hair work includes; cutting, colouring, setting, dressing, and preparing hair for wig-wearing.
- Wig, facial hair, and postiche work including fitting, head wraps, head block preparation, making foundation, whipping, knotting, weaving, and sewing postiche together with cutting, colouring, perming, setting, and dressing of wigs, postiche, and hairpieces.
- Make-up work includes researching and applying media make-up, character make-up, and special effects using a variety of techniques.
- Prosthetics work includes; material research, life casting, mould making, the use of foam latexes and silicones, surface rendering, and application to make and apply bald caps, body parts, wounds, and blemishes. This will also include the application of stage types of blood for injuries.
How To Apply
Apprentices without level 2 English and Maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health, and care plan, or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
The course is over a 24-month period, at Occupational Level 3. Please get in touch with us if you do not have the qualifications advertised above, we’re here to help you succeed.
What You’ll Need to Have!
- Is respectful of others’ views and beliefs – equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Works effectively with others
- Continuously develops their knowledge and skills
- Pays attention to achieving the detail required
- Balances many differing elements of work
- Takes ownership of work
- Plans work and manage time
CONCLUSION
We’re Waiting For Your Talents!
Stepping into the mesmerizing world of film and TV as a hair, wig, and makeup technician is an adventure that requires both artistic flair and technical finesse. Embracing the responsibility of transforming artists into diverse characters, eras, and worlds is an unparalleled thrill. There’s no better way to embark on this journey than through an apprenticeship, where you’ll be mentored by industry veterans and gain the hands-on experience necessary to shine in this exciting realm of creativity. So, seize the opportunity, master your craft, and let your imagination run wild – the world of film and TV awaits your artistic touch!
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