Liz Pugh is a renowned global make-up artist with years of experience in the industry. Liz's intuitive understanding of how make-up shapes contemporary imagery, coupled with her invaluable contributions to the creative process, has propelled her to the top of her field despite the notoriously competitive nature of the beauty world.
Liz shares with us the inspiration behind her impressive career, some of her most memorable professional highlights, her make up tips she lives by and reveals her favourite FINLAY frames!
Liz wears Tavistock Black Spectacles - £135
I am based in London but travel worldwide for work
Who or what inspired you to become a makeup artist?
I would have to say my mother, watching her put her makeup on, all those potions and lotions and the power of the transformation. I was always into fashion as a young girl and knew I somehow wanted to work for these magazines I would devour. I was fascinated how makeup could transform a face so decided that was my chosen path. No regrets.
What's been your favourite moment since starting your career?
Thats a hard one, I love my job and the moments it brings. Whether touring with Mary J Blige or stripping Adele back to a no makeup look for a magazine cover. I love the team work and the trust involved to create beautiful and strong images.
I love to switch between frames! I love the dramatic Windermere in Dark Havana and I equally love the Rose Gold Elvaston.
A beauty or make-up tip you live by
I love skin, for me it’s all about enhancement and not covering with a mask. Makeup has become extremely heavy, with people striving for that filtered social media look. I am passionate about loving your skin and enhancing it without hiding behind a mask.
Any exciting plans for the rest of the Summer?
I am busy throughout the summer with work, but my favourite time in London is always August when the city is so much quieter.
What advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists?
Be prepared to work hard. You have to dedicate yourself to it. Develop your style and Work out where you want to be in the industry, whether working on photoshoots, working in the movies, special effects.
Assist wherever you can as you learn so much on the job, don’t be afraid to reach out to makeup artists you like their work.
Liz wears Elvaston Rose Gold Spectacles - £135
If you were stuck on a desert island, what's the one beauty product you'd need by your side?
That’s tough! I am a complete product junkie! An SPF50 is a non negotiable. Then a good multitasking product, a cream cheek you could use on lips, cheeks and even as a eyeshadow! Blush always makes a massive difference to give a healthy look and it is so overlooked.
Oh and a waterproof mascara! Thats only small!
Which FINLAY frame would you like to add to your collection?
I do love a dramatic frame, it takes away the emphasis of my tired eyes when I am super busy so it would have to be the Tavistock.