Elevate Your Artistry to the Professional Level with Our Performance Makeup Artist Program
Designed for artists aiming for the pinnacle of their careers, our Performance Makeup Artist Program offers an extensive and rigorous curriculum tailored for mastering the art of performance makeup. This program is your gateway to the worlds of live theater, opera, ballet, television, music videos, and film.
With 2100 hours of intensive classroom training and additional real-world experience in current productions, our students develop a deep understanding of both makeup artistry and special effects. Beyond core skills, you can specialize further by choosing a concentration in either wig & hair design or costume design.
Our unique approach combines theory with hands-on application, providing numerous opportunities to work on actual productions. This practical experience not only enhances your skills but also enriches your resume, allowing you to accumulate up to 30 diverse class projects for your portfolio.
Step into a career in performance makeup with confidence and expertise, prepared by extensive training and real-world practice that sets you apart in the competitive entertainment industry.
Students who complete this program will receive a diploma authorized by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission.
Explore Our Comprehensive Performance Makeup Artist Curriculum
Our curriculum is crafted to provide an exhaustive education in performance makeup artistry, covering historical foundations to advanced technical skills. Here is a detailed look at the courses you will undertake:
- History of Makeup (60 hours): Delve into the evolution of makeup artistry through the ages, understanding its impact on fashion and entertainment across different eras.
- Sculpting (140 hours): Gain hands-on experience in sculpting techniques essential for creating prosthetics and detailed character makeup.
- Introduction to Design (60 hours): Learn the fundamentals of design theory to enhance your creative expression and conceptual visualization.
- Drawing (60 hours): Develop your drawing skills, which are crucial for precise planning and execution of makeup designs.
- Portfolio Development (60 hours): Create a professional portfolio that showcases your skills and projects, critical for your career advancement.
- Introduction to Costuming (80 hours): Explore costume design and construction, an integral aspect of complete character portrayal.
- Makeup Artistry I (140 hours): Master basic to intermediate makeup techniques including beauty, corrective, and character makeup.
- Makeup Artistry II (112 hours): Advance your skills with more complex applications and techniques in makeup artistry.
- Wig Making & Styling I (280 hours): Learn the craft of wig making and styling, essential for historical and character accuracy in performances.
- Wig Making & Styling II (280 hours): Continue to refine your techniques with advanced styling, customization, and maintenance of wigs.
- Special Effects Makeup I (330 hours): Introduce yourself to the world of special effects makeup, focusing on techniques used in creating realistic injuries and aging effects.
- Special Effects Makeup II (330 hours): Further your proficiency in advanced special effects, including the use of prosthetics and animatronics.
- Minding Your Business (28 hours): Equip yourself with essential business skills such as marketing, contract negotiation, and client management to succeed as a freelance artist.
Each course is designed to build on the skills learned in the previous ones, ensuring a well-rounded education that prepares you for a successful career in performance makeup. Our hands-on training not only teaches you techniques but also provides real-world application opportunities, giving you the experience and confidence needed to excel in the competitive entertainment industry.
Program Overview
Clock Hours: 2100
Award: Diploma
Meets: 3-4 days per week
Duration: 25 months
Student to Teacher Ratio: 10:1
Without a doubt, the best school there is. AMUA gives you all the tools to succeed in the industry, and has mentors and instructors that actually care about you and your work on a personal level. You gain so much more than just a unique education here; you gain colleagues, friends, and life-long family. Walking in the door is like coming home.
Lydia B
Former Student PMA Program