The vibrance of color surrounds us as on the African continent. We spoke to Nairobi-based makeup artist Sinitta Akello to get her thoughts on the Art of Color.
What gravitates you towards color?
Most color choices depend on the theme and feel of the shoot; I don’t always use color, though, I like to play with it to achieve different looks both for editorials and beauty shots. Playing with color can give you a very interesting look and it will give a totally different feel as opposed to black and white. Imagine a peach and aqua color palette combination… beautiful!
Should more brides use color on their big day?
When it comes to the big day I am very traditional. I do like the earth tone natural look, however, an accent or pop of color never hurts. On the wedding day, color should not be overused, but a purple crease is not a bad choice for the more outgoing bride who may want to make a statement or reflect her personal style on her big day.
How and when did you get interested in makeup?
I studied visual communication in University, which involved photography and film. I have always been a jack-of-all-trades and I am comfortable being hands-on with pretty much everything. I started by helping my friends with photo shoots for their assignments and used my friends as models to practice my skill. During my free time, I planned shoots and found that I enjoyed mostly editorials and high fashion shoots.
Where do you see the makeup industry going in Nairobi?
Fashion has grown within the Kenyan industry where you find more and more women dressing to express their individual styles. It involves more skill with stores like MAC opening in Kenya. It creates an avenue for women to learn more about the industry now.
Sinitta Akello has studied under local beauty giant Suzie Beauty, and is now an independent beauty consultant at MAC Nairobi. Follow her blog at Cultured Ego to get the latest makeup inspiration from Nairobi.
