A Quick Fix Turned Unexpected Lesson in STEM

Finished Product behind the scenes with Model Mo

This Viral Moment Taught Me More Than I Expected

2024 was a whirlwind of exciting projects, from high-fashion shoots to major commercials. As a professional makeup artist based in NYC, I'm constantly on the go, ensuring models and talent look their absolute best. But even the most glamorous jobs can come with unexpected curveballs.

One day, on set with my model, Mo, disaster struck. His haircut had gone left, leaving him with a less-than-ideal hairline when he arrived at our shoot. Panic could have set in, but instead, I saw an opportunity for a creative challenge. Drawing on my years of experience and a healthy dose of ingenuity, I got to work. With some braiding hair, a little teasing, and a touch of trusty black latex glue, we were able to carefully recreated Mo's hairline.

My assistant recorded the whole thing, and much to my surprise, this impromptu fix resonated! The video went viral, and amidst the flurry of comments and shares, a new term kept popping up: "Women in STEM."

Women in STEM refers to women who work in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. As a professional makeup artist focused on aesthetics and visual storytelling, I wasn't immediately sure how on-set ingenuity connected to STEM. But then I realized that any successful artist, regardless of their field, possesses a unique set of skills:

Problem-solving: Quickly assessing situations and finding creative solutions.
Resourcefulness: Utilizing the tools at one’s disposal to achieve the desired result.
Artistry: Blending artistry with technical skill to create outside the box.

These skills are not exclusive to STEM fields; they are fundamental for success in any endeavor. This unexpected viral moment served as a valuable reminder that creativity and ingenuity are universal and essential. As an artist, I'm constantly adapting, innovating, and pushing boundaries. And while my focus may be on beauty and aesthetics, the underlying principles of resourcefulness, problem-solving, and a "can-do" attitude are essential for success in any field. This impromptu moment was definitely one of my favorite from 2024. Watch the magic happen here.

Makeup by Remi