Today we’d like to introduce you to Trent Simmons.
Hi Trent, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m originally from Memphis, TN and I met this beautiful trans woman over 20 years ago named Tanisha Cassadine, who was a phenomenal makeup artist in the Drag community. I was so fascinated with her skills as a makeup artist she let me assist and shadow her teaching me techniques that would later set me apart as an established artist. I later took a job at MAC, where I fine-tuned my knowledge of makeup, learning to work with all types of skin, I then transferred with MAC to Atlanta. Working in Atlanta afforded me the opportunity to work amongst some super-talented artists. I met a young model named Ryan Danielle who came in the store needing makeup done to take some pics, that led to me meeting her photographer Kevin Goolsby. Kevin was shooting a session with soul singer Angie Stone and wanted me to do her makeup. The photoshoot went well. Angie Stone introduced me to two L.A. based makeup artists who she met when she filmed Fighting Temptation. These women invited me to work with them doing background makeup on the hit B.E.T show The Game. That opportunity led to many projects to follow. I was then able to join the Local 798 IATSE Makeup and Hair Union.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It was definitely not a smooth road. I could write a book about the things I’ve endured but I must say you have to be ready for anything as you’re building your name and solidifying your place in this industry. Always be professional and always on time. Show up and give nothing less than your best and be pleasant to work with, you will go far and sustain.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a makeup artist for tv and film, I’ve had the grand opportunity to work on a myriad of projects and meet many celebrities even working as personal artists to talents such as Yolanda Adams, Brandy and Wendy Raquel Robinson to name a few. I specialize in beauty makeup, I believe in enhancing one’s beauty and bringing out their best features. I’m most proud of getting to do what I love and meeting amazing people along the way, also one of my proudest moments in my career is winning the MUAH Guild Award for best contemporary makeup for the movie “Coming to America 2. I never take for granted the places I’ve been, the rooms I’ve been in and the opportunities I’ve been given.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I can be reached through my Instagram account @makeupsurgeon
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Makeupsurgeon
