November 12, 2016

Meet Atlanta Celebrity Makeup Artist: Richard Lomax

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Richard Lomax.

Richard, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
For me, Beauty has always been something that was second nature to me. Some people may not know this but, I was supposed to be a nurse. But for as long as I can remember, I’ve always been attracted to the Arts, whether it was dancing, drawing and acting, the artistic side always shined through. My first shot at makeup was back in 2005 when my sister graduated from High school. I’ve always been a quick study, show me something once and 9 times out of ten I got. So, I went to the drugstore & bought concealer, foundation mascara, eyeliner and blush and to work. My sister was already stunning but the makeup enhanced her natural beauty. From that day hearing my mom and my sister’s friends rave about how her makeup looked was gratifying for me.

In 2010 I started working at beauty boutique in NYC. My manager at the time was Ayana Fobbs (who soon became my sister and Mentor) she taught me the proper way to ‘Beat A Face ‘, and she did it in a way that wasn’t over barring and bossy but in a more supportive neutering Way. In 2011 A friend of mine named Rudy Sabio referred me to a company he’d been working for Named, IMAN COSMETICS. I interviewed, Did a demo, and got the job. While working with IMAN COSMETICS I was privileged to Do NY Fashion week and work under some amazing artist like Valente Frazier who’s know for his work with Tyra Banks and Byron Barnes, who’s know for his work with Iman herself.

Has it been a smooth road?
I’ve been doing makeup for about 9 years now. It hasn’t always been a smooth road, It came a point and time where I had begun to blossom and started getting noticed. With that notoriety came more bookings and from

There I had to figure out if I should just do this as a hobby or turn it into a business for myself. I remember Sam Fine telling me in the beginning of my career ” If you’re serious about your craft, you needed to take it seriously, brand yourself and always continue to learn”. I took his advice and made the challenging decision to leave my job working at Mac Cosmetics making a consistent pay check, now to a consistent hustle and being my own boss. It wasn’t easy it requires a lot. but in the end, it is very rewarding.

In 2016, I Did my First, 22 city tour as Personal Makeup Artist for Grammy Nominated K. Michelle. I’m also currently working for network TV ONE (Hair and Makeup). And I had the privilege in having some of my work featured in several publications including ELLE Magazine, Life & Style to name a few.

I realized when I decided to let go of negativity of any kind and surround myself with people who were in the same mindset as I was I started to move in the direction I had been working so hard to go in. So, when I got a call to do A music Video. The most recent being his work with Island Def Jam for recording star August Alsina and Rapper Fabolous for the video ” Get Ya Money”. Later on That year I also did a video For Fabulous called ” Lituation”

With the grace of God, my parents, and my family/friends I’m continually growing. It’s always easier when you have a great support system. I’m humble and always appreciative, (aside from the hard work), that’s why I’ve gotten so far.

Any predictions for the industry over the next few years?
In the next few years, I’m planning on hiring a team of talented individuals who’d like to join the Richard Lomax beauty movement. Maybe hit the big screen and do some acting.

What would you say has been the biggest challenge for you over the course of your career?
My biggest challenge over the years had to Not following my dream! Allowing others to dictate what it is I should be doing with my life. Once I took control and perfected my talent everything seemed to fall into place

What advice do you wish to give to those thinking about pursuing a path similar to yours?
For one, learn as much as you can. If you can be mentored by someone as talented as you aspire to be then latch on and absorb as much as you can, Ask as many questions as you can. Nothing usually happens overnight so be prepaid to hustle. Figure out what will make your stand out from the other thousands of Talented artists out there. Move silently! Don’t tell people about your next move. Don’t be greedy lend a helping hand when needed. Stay optimistic. Be business orientated and make as many positive connections as possible.

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