Celebrity Make-Up Artist David Velasquez Is Having A Moment
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Los Angeles-based makeup artist David Velasquez is known as much for his bold, creative work as he is for his impeccable celebrity glam and his work with Doja Cat for her ‘Hot Pink’ Album press tour, performances, and music videos.
Velasquez started his career at 16 years-old apprenticing for Priscilla Ono, makeup artist to Rihanna and Global Makeup Artist for Fenty Beauty. Since launching his own solo career nearly six years ago, David has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music and entertainment, on high-profile music videos and fashion campaigns.
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Some of his other recent work includes: Saweetie in her Pretty Little Thing Campaign, ‘Tap In’ Music Video, and GQ feature with Quavo; Kali Uchis for her latest press tour and ‘Solita’ Music Video; Ashanti’s Press Tour; Cardi B’s Fashion Nova Campaign; Ariana Grande’s ‘Thank U, Next’ and ‘7 Rings’ Music Videos; and J.Lo’s ‘Medicine’ Music Video.
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Last month he shared his experience of being a gay Latinx makeup artist with The Advocate saying “For me I’ve always had a support system, and I thank God that I was able to have that, because a lot of my [Latino] friends didn’t growing up. All my friends were at 13 and 14 coming out, and my mom was the house that people would run to, saying ‘My mom just kicked me out because I told her I was gay.'”
“I feel like I found myself in the last few years and I’ve been going hard with my career, and I’m so thankful for the opportunities I’ve had to work with celebrities and stuff like that.”
The former key makeup artist to music artist Doja Cat, he boasts an impressive rolodex of clients: Rico Nasty, Kali Uchis, Noah Cyrus, Dani Leigh, Saweetie, BIA, Ashanti, India Love, Blac Chyna, Crystal Westbrook, Lolo Jones, Tamar Braxton, Nikki Mudarris, Jude Demorest, and Chanel West Coast among others.
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#GAYNRD spoke to Velasquez.
Why are men finally feeling more comfortable with make up today? Society has become more open and accepting of diversity and gender fluidity; beauty brands actually embrace representation and create makeup for both men and women. And, we see successful male artists and influencers who don’t conform to one version of masculinity. And the glam industry is thriving! With more access to beauty products and culture than ever before, I think it’s natural that men are becoming more open about their expression. It should be known that men can wear makeup and feel confident in it too.
Did you face headwinds coming up in this industry because of the way you looked or presented? When I started my career, I stood out for my tattoos, piercings and style; it was not traditional. But as alternative culture became more mainstream, my look became a positive signature of my identity, not a set back.
How old were you when you knew this is what you wanted to do? Or is there still a bigger dream? My mom gifted me my first eyeliner when I was 11. I wore it on my first day of school and never looked back. This is my dream job. I’m very grateful, and always striving to become the best artist I can be. How can I make my family, my kids, my community proud? How can I make my clients feel beautiful and powerful? How can I drive positivity and individuality in my career?
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Did you plan to become a parent? How did it affect the way you approach your career?
My children are a blessing and have given my life purpose. They keep me grounded and are a motivation for me to work hard, dream bigger, and pursue a future that’s bright for them.
What would be a basic thing you’d recommend for a guy just starting to explore?
When it comes to makeup, you just have to put it on and experiment. It’s always best to start with something as simple as bronzer or foundation and then work your way up from there.
What is your favorite / Top 5 looks you’ve done? I have a lot of projects that I’ve loved and am proud of, but my favorites have to be: Doja Cat’s “Say So” Music Video & Cosmopolitan Magazine Cover, Sweetie’s “Tap in” Music Video, Paper Magazine & GQ Magazine Feature, Rico Nasty’s “Salty Magazine” Feature, and Kali Uchis’ “Solita” Music Video.
Watch Doja Cat’s “Say So” video below.
