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francesco lo cascio
Francesco is an Italian make up artist who began his studies at the internationally renowned London College of Fashion, where he studied make up artistry. He then received a degree in theatrical and special effects make up from Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College after mastering such as prosthetic work and creating cuts and bruises. Upon the completion of his formal training, he began working professionally as a freelance make up artist, lending his creative skills and expertise to the BBC News, Abbey Road Studios, the MTV Music Awards and the Party in the Park Concert Series. He was also part of the make up team for the Academy Award nominated film, Billy Elliot. As a freelance makeup artist, Francesco’s studied technique earned him notable clients such as Kate Moss, Christy Turlington, Lydia Hearst, Eva Herzigova, Destiny’s Child, Isabella Blow, LeAnn Rimes, Sugababes, Jamiroquai, Gipsy Kings and Muse, Francesco’s breadth of cosmetic experience also extends into the fashion arena, where he has worked under legendary make up artist Pat McGrath during London Fashion Week on prestigious runway shows such as Fendi, Alexander McQueen, Alessandro Dell’Acqua, Max Mara, Valentino, Emporio Armani, Amanda Wakeley. A true renaissance man of the beauty industry, Francesco has also contributed his talents to numerous international publications, creating beauty looks for editorial features in publications such as Vogue Italia, Marie Claire (Italy), Bambini Vogue, You Magazine, Vogue Espana and Max: Das Magazin Popkultur und Style .As an artist, Francesco acts as a liaison between the high fashion and consumer worlds. His immense talent and experience enables him to understand and exemplify his technique and understanding of the make up industry.
Interview with Franco…..
How did you get into make up?
I have always been very artistic from a young age and remember looking at my mothers photos as a child of her during the 60’s. The hair and makeup inspired me and I knew that make-up was the career path that I wanted to proceed into further. As a child I would always draw and colour and it was something I loved to do and I have fulfilled this and look forward to the next step of teaching my skills and passion to others.
What have been your best moments so far?
Every day for me is the best moment.
What personality traits make a good artist?
Make-up artistry is about always being able to evolve your style, your technique and your eye for colour. True success comes when you are open to change and aware of the leading styles and trends around you.
Why did you start teaching?
I have taught make up in different languages in the past and it was something I enjoyed and felt the need to go back to. I believe it is one of my strengths.
Give us a typical ‘day in the life of…’ a make up artist.
It is always DIFFERENT. Working outside or in a studio, every day is unique and requires patience, commitment and long working hours. The best part involves meeting lots of new people along the way.
What are your 3 favorite products?
Illamasqua highlighter brush, Giorgio Armani luminous silk foundation and velvet matte lip pencil from Nars
What is your top beauty tips?
SKIN without a doubt! Many often rush through skin in order to get to “the good stuff”! To me, skin is “the good stuff”. With beautiful preparation of the skin and foundation a “no make up” look or an “extreme” make up look will appear flawless!
Any skin care tips?
It is very important to use good skin care before and after wearing make up. Shiseido have great skincare products. I also love Illamasqua matt primer because it keeps the skin matt throughout the day but evens out the natural complexion in preparation for foundation. Exfoliating the skin at least once a week helps to keep the skin looking and feeling soft which in turn results in a flawless finish once foundation has been applied.
What is your advice to budding make up artists?
For someone trying to work their way into the make up industry the best advice I could give would be: to network with as many people as you can by getting yourself and your work noticed which would mean to take part in as much voluntary work as possible. Always practice different shows determination.
