BL8K Talks: Chi Chi Saito a Life in Makeup

How a Passion for Drawing Became a Makeup Dream Career

When words fail, makeup remains. For some, the act of wearing makeup is merely a practical choice, be it a means to an end, for others it's an urgent whisper of creativity waiting to be expressed and either way, the artistry of reimagining one's appearance stands as a testament to the profound power of transformation. Chi Chi Saito embodies this truth. Her work reflects a burning passion—one where art and painting are not just interests but the most essential elements of her identity. For her, there was never a plan b; art and creativity happened to be her Achilles heel, and luckily, her talent and insatiable creativity found its place in the makeup sphere. The universal language of beauty that finds its common ground in every brushstroke, one she speaks fluently.

From childhood afternoons spent absorbed in the vivid spectacle of Paris Fashion Week to a lifetime devoted to drawing, Chi Chi’s story might have begun with aspirations of becoming a designer, but when sewing didn’t suit her, she embraced the colors and textures of makeup to paint her vision on faces instead of fabric. Taking cues from the places she visits, her work goes international - as a consequence, she has become an expert at mastering all skin tones, making her a multidimensional professional. A celebration of all that proves to be irrevocably essential, leading her work to compose fashion magazine covers including Bazaar to the world's most coveted runway shows, Chi Chi is all about pushing the boundaries and using this medium as a profound form of human expression and above all championing confidence. 

BL8K interviewed Sito about her work and cultural influences, what the future of makeup looks like and the industry's biggest challenges, and of course we asked her about her professional beauty hacks.

1- How did you become a make-up artist? What drove you to pursue this path?

I have been an artist since I was born. When I was a child, I was very good at drawing, painting and I drew practically every day, never got tired of it. I also used to watched Paris Fashion Week on TV, so my childhood dream transformed into becoming a fashion designer. I remember vividly dreaming of showcasing my clothes at Paris Fashion Week and have people all over the world wear them. As I grew older, I realized that sewing wasn't my strongest suit, but my passion for fashion remained unwavering. This realization didn’t deter me; instead, it led me to channel my artistic talents into a new career path. If only I could tell my younger self that makeup artistry was a field just waiting for me to discover!

Throughout history, people have classified art in various ways. makeup is no different. How do you define makeup as an art form, and what does it mean to you personally?

I think there are many different styles of art, for example, abstraction, digital art, Japanese uki-e style or oil painting etc. 

I think there are many different styles of makeup using the face and body as a canvas. There are various types of makeup (1920s,- 1980s), high fashion makeup, beauty , Halloween makeup, geisha makeup, special makeup, etc. For me, makeup and face art and always challenging and are the real pleasure of my life.

Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you approach each project? Where do you draw inspiration from? What other makeup artists' works do you admire?

Museums and designer exhibitions are a huge source of inspiration, looking at art and paintings as well as photographs fuels my creativity. My travels also come as a source of endless observation that helps me understand makeup from various point of view, but without a doubt looking at other makeup artists work and references comes as the ultimate learning guide. I greatly respect the work of influential makeup artists such as Stéphane Marais, Pat McGrath, Dotti, and Gucci Westman. (especially Pat McGrath’s groundbreaking makeup for Dior)

How would you describe your personal makeup style, and what experience or emotion do you hope to evoke in others?

My makeup style combines influences from Japan, Asia, America, and Europe, helping me build a wider and more diverse aesthetic. Through my work, I aim to inspire dreams and encourage others to believe in their own creative potential. If I can achieve my dreams through makeup, then I strongly believe others can, too.

How have your experiences living and working in various countries influenced your work in makeup?

Living and working across different countries has impacted my approach to makeup. Exposure to the different people I’ve worked in has helped master the delicate art of understanding color theory when it comes to working with all types os skin tones, which has become a signature aspect of my work. This global perspective enables me to create more inclusive and nuanced makeup looks.

What techniques do you use that might benefit us mortals?

Skin preparation is crucial. If you have time, prioritize taking care of your skin and when possible invest in facial massages and stick to a doctor approved skin care routine.This not only enhances the overall look but also makes the model feel more comfortable and satisfied with the result.

How did you navigate your journey in the challenging field of makeup artistry, and what has been your best experience so far?

I would be lying if I said that navigating a creative career in makeup wasn’t daunting or challenging, but my passion for makeup and fashion kept me going. Believing in myself and persisting through difficulties has been key to my success. Among my most memorable experiences are doing Alicia Keys' makeup in Saudi Arabia and working at the Chanel show during Paris Fashion Week.

What challenges have you faced in the makeup industry, and how have you overcome them?

One major challenge was adapting to close interactions and communication, especially as a second language user. Initially, it was difficult, but I focused on being friendly and grateful, even when language barriers arose. Gradually, this approach helped me build confidence and effectively connect with others.

Where do you see the future of makeup artistry heading, and what trends do you think will define it?

The future of makeup artistry is evolving with advancements in AI, which is influencing the industry by creating virtual actors and models. While some traditional roles may shift, the demand for makeup in high-profile settings like fashion shows and campaigns will remain strong. The field is likely to diversify further, encompassing roles from fashion and influencer makeup artists to digital and film makeup specialists.

Trends are cyclical; currently, Gen Z is revisiting 90s and Y2K fashion. I anticipate blending these retro influences with modern techniques to set new trends in makeup artistry.