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From TV shows to press performances, celebrity looks and editorial and advertising shoots, Melanie Burnicle has a colourful resumé when it comes to her experience as a make-up artist. So much so that Revlon snapped her up as the first make-up director for Australia and New Zealand.
“We are delighted to welcome Melanie Burnicle to the Revlon business. We feel the newly created role of make-up director will further strengthen our position as the number one cosmetics brand in Australia and New Zealand, and help us continue to build on our strategic growth,” says Revlon marketing director Tracey Raso.
To find out more about Burnicle, BD chatted to the make-up artist about her career history, highlights and teaming up with Revlon.
Can you talk me through your career as a make-up artist?
I worked on my first shoot for Cosmo back in 1999. My work has featured more on the still photographic side of the industry, for advertising campaigns and editorial shoots. I come from the old days of Polaroid and film, so I take pride in achieving beautiful skin. I’ve been doing Q&As for editorial since 2000 and love that my tips and tricks can help women with their make-up routine. This has led to me being interviewed often for radio and TV. I’m also booked to direct large shoots and live events.
How did you get into make-up artistry?
I danced throughout my childhood and was always doing my own hair and make-up for shows, eisteddfods and performances. During a dancing summer school, I had a make-up class and remember the teacher saying, “wow, you’re really good at this”. I was 15 and wanted to be a dancer, so it never occurred to me that make-up artistry would be my career.
I’d have friends lining up for me to do their make-up for every night out, and realised that I loved being creative and making others feel great. It was a natural step, and 17 years on, I’m so grateful I get to do a job which I love. It makes me happy to wake up and think about the day ahead.
What’s been your career highlight to date?
Being officially announced as Revlon’s make-up director was and is still a highlight - I’m still on cloud nine and loving the role. This year, I’m also a finalist at the AHFA awards for Makeup Artist of the Year, which will be announced on March 29.
Which celebrities have you worked with?
Last year I had the pleasure of directing make-up for G.R.L’s Aussie press tour - they love make-up so it was a lot of fun! We had a performance on X Factor, a Cosmo shoot, press and media interviews, and a small live show. I’ve also done make-up for Jess Mauboy, Jaimie Alexander, Princess Laurentien from the Netherlands, Isabel Lucas, Indiana Evans and Jodhi Gordon.
Why did you decide to team up with Revlon?
I’ve had a fondness for the brand for as long as I can remember. My grandma would always pop on her lippy before opening the front door, and of course, it was Revlon! I love the history of the brand - it has so many firsts up its sleeve and is innovative with its products. I love the products and I love that the brand’s accessible to women. I feel it’s a very natural fit for me.
How did the collaboration come about?
When Revlon were auditioning for the role of make-up director Australasia, I knew I wanted it. I put myself in the mix of artists and immersed myself in Revlon products and history for months. When I found out the role was mine, I was so ecstatic - I did my happy dance right there and then!
What will your role involve?
I will be used as the make-up director across all consumer-facing touch points for the brand including advertising, in-store eventing, social media and traditional press.
What are your favourite Revlon products and why?
- PhotoReady Skinlights in all three shades (Bare, Pink and Bronze). I love them! Mix them into foundation for a beautiful, radiant foundation or apply as a highlighter or a bronzer.
- The Highlighting Palettes are brilliant in all shades, but my favourite is Bronze Glow. Buff them along the cheekbone for a beautiful glow and shine. I’ve been addicted to these for a while now.
- I love the Revlon PhotoReady Primer & Shadow.They’re so versatile - you can even use the eyeshadows wet when you want to intensify your make-up. Five colours in the one palette is all you need for a full look.
Carousel image: Fernando Barraza @ 2 Twenty 2 Group.