International man of makeup: Cosmetics pro transforms local beauty students
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| Longtime makeup artist Lee Rector, who has plied his trade all over the world for models, actors and others, adds a bit of color to Laura Scott, 34, of Rock Falls. Rector, in Sterling Thursday to promote Merle Norman products, did makeovers for six students from Educators of Beauty at Cindy Fane’s Merle Norman shop. (Alex T. Paschal/apaschal@svnmail.com) |
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STERLING – Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio surprised six local cosmetology students Thursday with makeovers from its staff and renowned makeup artist Lee Rector.
Alysia Waldschmidt, an instructor with Educators of Beauty, in Sterling, decided to reward two students for their high grade-point averages and four others for selling the most facials.
“I did not tell them what [the] project was going to be,” Waldschmidt said.
When the girls arrived at Merle Norman, they met Rector, who’s been a makeup artist for almost 30 years.
He has applied makeup for NBC’s “Golden Girls,” for USA Today photo shoots, for runway models, news anchors and more, all over the world.
He now teaches in New York and owns a Merle Norman studio in West Virginia.
Together, Rector and the staff transformed each girl – and Waldschmidt.
Rector applied dark brown eye shadow to Casey Mills’ blue eyes, a color she plans to continue using.
“I love … how it makes my eyes pop,” said Mills, 18, of Morrison.
Mills also learned to use primer, which provides a base coat for makeup.
“It’s the hottest thing going on in the makeup world,” Rector said. “It’s a crime not to prime.”
Consulting with local artist Pam Leach, Hope French, 19, of Thomson, found her perfect shade of foundation.
“I really like it,” she said. “… Before, I had a line and now I don’t.”
Other students who received makeovers were Ashley Kophamer, 20, of Morrison; Alyssa Morthland, 19, of Rock Falls; Kelly Christensen, 19, of Ashton; and Laura Scott, 34, of Rock Falls.
Rector’s visit taught the local artists new tips, such as how to better create full, pouty lips,and give lift to the brow area.
“I learned so much from him,” said Teri Shaw, of Sterling. “It’s been a lot of fun.”
Tips from the pros
Women, who generally learn to apply makeup at age 12 or 13, should learn new techniques over the years, makeup artist Lee Rector says. Many will update their wardrobe and hair, but rarely their makeup.
And when choosing makeup this spring, pastels are hot and dark colors are not, Merle Norman owner Cindy Fane says.
