Unleash your inner artist with Gdolce at MAC Pro Ala Moana

HONOLULU (KHON2) — It’s National Lipstick Day! So, KHON2.com hopped over to MAC Pro Ala Moana to learn more about this surprisingly historical item.

Gdolce, a skilled makeup artist. Let’s dive into the world of makeup artistry and learn some exciting tips and stories from G.

Gdolce’s journey to becoming a makeup artist began with his passion for art. “I became a makeup artist because I was actually an artist as a child and I was looking for a venue to express my creativity and my art,” G explained.

His love for art took him to Germany, where he attended art school, and eventually led him to the East Coast of the United States.

The transition from being an artist to a makeup artist was natural for G. “You can just apply pretty much what you know of art and actually learn how to apply it into the makeup industry,” he says.

This artistic background helps him see his clients’ faces as canvases, allowing him to enhance their natural features creatively.

With National Lipstick Day approaching, G shares some fascinating history about lipstick. “It dates back many, many, many hundreds of years ago, back to the Egyptians and Cleopatra,” he said.

Cleopatra used crushed beetles mixed with beeswax to create a protective barrier for her lips. Queen Elizabeth I also famously used lipstick, though it contained white lead, which led to her poisoning over time.

In the early 20th century, lipstick became a symbol of female empowerment and rebellion. “During World War I, it was believed that Hitler actually hated red lipstick, so American women flocked to factories to buy it as a sign of patriotism,” G added.

Today, lipstick remains an important form of self-expression. “Lipstick brings a different side of your personality that you wouldn’t necessarily see without a pop of color,” said G. Modern lipsticks not only add color but also hydrate, repair, and enhance lips.

The Viva Glam Program

One of the standout programs at MAC Cosmetics is the Viva Glam initiative.

“Here at MAC, we have our Viva Glam program, which has been helping people around the world for the past 30 years,” G explained.

This program supports various causes, including feeding people in need, empowering women, and promoting equality for the LGBTQ+ community.

“Every time you purchase a Viva Glam lipstick, 100% of the proceeds go towards charity,” said G.

Over the past 30 years, this program has raised nearly $580 million, providing shelter, food, education, and support for communities affected by HIV and AIDS.

“We’re hoping to raise up to a billion dollars in the next five years,” G added.

For those interested in becoming a makeup artist, G offers some advice.

“If you’re looking to start your career or your experience as a makeup artist, you can always apply at MAC Cosmetics,” he said.

MAC provides excellent programs and benefits for new artists. While the Ala Moana location requires a year of experience due to its pro store status, G assured that there are many opportunities to learn and grow.

“Even if you’re not employed by MAC, you can come here and get a class or a tutorial,” G explained.

MAC offers tutorials and makeup services to help aspiring artists develop their skills.

“Once you learn it, you can go out in the community and perhaps be a makeup artist yourself,” he added.

Lipstick plays a crucial role in completing a makeup look.

“You can do your eyes, you can do your cheeks, but lipstick ties the whole look together,” G said.

It’s a top-selling product worldwide because of its ability to transform a person’s appearance with just a touch of color.

Gdolce’s journey from an artist to a makeup artist is inspiring. His passion for creativity and helping others shines through in his work at MAC Cosmetics. With National Lipstick Day coming up, it’s a great time to celebrate the history and importance of lipstick as a form of self-expression.

If you’re interested in becoming a makeup artist or simply want to learn more about makeup, consider visiting MAC Cosmetics for tutorials and classes. And remember, every Viva Glam lipstick purchase supports important causes around the world.

As we wrap up our interview, G leaves us with this thought: “Lipstick brings a different side of your personality that you wouldn’t necessarily see without a pop of color.”

You can click here to learn more about MAC Cosmetics and employment opportunities they offer.

So, whether you’re a makeup enthusiast or just starting, don’t underestimate the power of a little lipstick to brighten your day.