After more than 15 years of training working makeup artists for film, television, and creative industries, Academy of Makeup & Arts has officially received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
This milestone marks an important step forward—not just for our school, but for the students and creative workforce we serve across Tennessee and beyond.
Since opening our doors, AMUA has helped artists begin careers in production, develop professional skills, and enter industries that continue to grow across our region. Becoming a nonprofit allows us to strengthen that work and build a more sustainable future for the program.
Academy of Make Up Arts is one of the few programs in the country—and currently the only dedicated professional makeup training program of its kind in Tennessee—focused specifically on preparing artists for careers in film, television, and production.
From Founder-Led to Community-Supported
For more than a decade, Academy of Makeup & Arts has operated as a founder-led boutique training program built around direct instruction, industry relationships, and hands-on mentorship.
Transitioning to nonprofit status allows AMUA to move from a single-owner model to a community-supported structure designed for long-term sustainability.
This shift helps ensure the school can continue serving future students, strengthen its role in Tennessee’s growing film and production workforce, and build a foundation for expanded access in the years ahead.
Support from Founding Supporters makes this transition possible.
Why Nonprofit Status Strengthens Makeup Training in Tennessee
Community support during this transition helps AMUA:
- continue delivering professional-level instruction
- maintain equipment and classroom resources
- strengthen workforce pathways into film and production industries
- expand partnerships with industry professionals
- build the foundation for future scholarships and program growth
This moment is about securing the future of specialized makeup training in our region.
Launching the AMUA Founding Supporters Campaign
To mark this next chapter, we’ve launched the Founding Supporters Campaign with a goal of raising $100,000.
This campaign is the first step toward a larger $1 million expansion vision focused on strengthening long-term program stability and increasing access to professional creative training.
Early supporters play a meaningful role in helping secure the future of AMUA during this transition to nonprofit status.
All gifts are tax-deductible and directly support the programs that prepare students for careers in film, television, and creative production.
Be Part of What Comes Next
Many working artists began their careers at AMUA. With your support, the next generation will too.
If AMUA has impacted you, your family, or your community, we invite you to become a Founding Supporter and help shape what comes next.
Become a Founding Supporter
