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“Makeup is self-confidence applied directly to the face, it is an expression, an art, and a passion,” says Rhythm Malhotra.
By SHIPRA CHAUDHURY
Makeup artist Rhythm Malhotra juggles her duties on the home-front, teaching, and her business.
Her mother loved music – hence her name – a love that she has inherited. Her love for makeup and artistry is probably an offshoot of that creative nature.
“Makeup is self-confidence applied directly to the face, it is an expression, an art, and a passion,” she says.
Armed with a Masters’s degree in Mathematics, she started her career as a teacher in Delhi, India, but life had other plans for her.
“After migrating to this country in 2021, I tried to go back to teaching, but developing my passion became my priority. I enrolled in a nine-month course at CMU, College of Makeup Art and Design.”
CMU’s diploma and certificate programs prepare graduates for work in fashion, film, television, theatre, editorial, special effects, prosthetics, and creature design. Here she learned SFX, film/TV, theatre, fashion, and prosthetics.”
“SFX means special effects makeup, a term used for applying the pre-made prosthetics or smaller on-skin effects,” explains Malhotra. “This type of makeup can include creating the appearance of things like wounds, scars, and wrinkles for ageing effects applied directly onto the skin. This is a difficult career path and people who hire any SFX makeup artists want to know that they can trust the artist’s abilities. Everything needs to look natural, so we have to go through a lot of original wounds, cuts, etc., to work on the detailing. Therefore, providing proof of your abilities and a well-rounded portfolio is what professionals are looking for.
“Hands-on experience working with cosmetics, chemicals, and prosthetics is necessary to become a successful SFX makeup artist. You can gain this experience by working as an SFX makeup assistant for major productions and student films, theatrical productions, and even theme park shows. I engaged myself in a number of short films and editorial work and started a company called ArtistryByRhythm. It has been a great journey but there is a long way to go. I aspire to be a makeup designer for various fashion shows, teach makeup, and have a bridal makeup and hair business.”
Has academic teaching then taken a back seat for her?
“Well, I was not looking for any particular teaching job here in Canada, but applying for an admin position paved the way for a teaching position in a local private school. And here I am, once again in a teaching position, but my first love is still makeup and hairstyling, and creating and executing unique SFX and character design.”
Her favourite part about being a makeup artist is being able to express herself through art.
“It’s given me an outlet to create beauty with people and spread messages through art. It’s fulfilling, fun, dynamic and energizing. I’m grateful to be able to express myself through it.”
Malhotra and her husband chose Canada to provide a stress-free educational path for their 18-month-old son Rishaan.
“The initial days in Canada were lonely and challenging, but it’s been a little over three years now and I call Canada home. It’s a tough journey, but worth it. Financial stability, a way better lifestyle, and discovering yourself in a challenging environment are what Canada is all about. Oh, and winter! What I like the most about this country is its cold weather. You must be thinking this is insane, but believe me, I don’t enjoy hot and steamy summers at all, so it’s a pleasure to be here!”
• If you’d like to share the story of your arrival in Canada, please write to desinews@rogers.com or call 416-695-4357.