Today we’d like to introduce you to Maddie Parks.
Maddie, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
As I child, I was always intrigued with all things beauty. It was like a creative outlet for me. You would never catch me leaving the house without some sort of lipstick, and of course, eyeshadow. I constantly gave my dolls “fresh” haircuts and pretended like I had my own salon. It’s always been a dream of mine to work in the cosmetology industry. There was never any question about what I wanted to do when I grew up; I always told people that I wanted to do makeup and hair professionally for a living. My passion began with makeup, and as I grew older, I started getting interested in hair. Eventually, I started working in a hair salon at the age of 17 and fell in love with the art of hairdressing. Now, almost 20 years old, I am a licensed hairdresser and a self-taught makeup artist.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I am a makeup artist and hairdresser. I work behind the chair doing haircuts as well as color, and also any type of special occasion or event makeup. Making people feel beautiful, and enhancing their natural beauty is my biggest priority.
I take a lot of inspiration from many celebrities as well as fashion. I believe that your hair and makeup should always compliment your outfit. Leighton Meester has always been someone I’ve looked up to; she has always had an incredible style and a very natural, classy makeup look. However, I love the bold looks that Lady Gaga can rock. She has an amazing makeup artist who I look up to a lot, Sarah Tanno.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
I think life has become somewhat harder for artists in the recent years. There are so many people engaging in the same artistry that sometimes it can be overwhelming. Too many people have a mindset that in whatever form of art they create, it’s a competition. In my opinion, we should be lifting each other up and helping one another in whatever way possible.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I post a lot of content to my Instagram, so check it out to see my work!
I am at my salon, The Wild Orchid in Woodstock, five days a week so definitely come on in and let me make you feel beautiful!
Contact Info:
- Website: thewildorchidsalon.com
- Email: muahbymaddie@gmail.com
- Instagram: @madisennichollehair
Image Credit:
Cat Agati
Carieo Crenshaw
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.
