Slapp Chat with Kelechi Onuoha, Makeup Artist and Pro Artist at Charlotte Tilbury
You may have seen Kelechi Onuoha on a Charlotte Tilbury Live, in a mesmerising makeup tutorial, or being thanked by the Hollywood elite for another stellar beat.
Kelechi is a name to know and one of very few Makeup Artists to be hand-picked as a National Pro by the queen of soft glam herself, Charlotte Tilbury.
Inspired into makeup by the greats Charlotte [Tilbury] and Pat [McGrath], with hard work and insisting on doing what she loved, Kelechi followed her dreams to bag her dream job.
We chatted to the CT Pro and IG queen we can’t help but double tap, about her favourite products, the importance of giving thanks and the eternal allure of Naomi Campbell.
Name:
Kelechi Onuoha
Where are you from?
I am a Nigerian living in Bromley
What do you do?
I am a National Pro Artist for Charlotte Tilbury
What is your typical day like?
My typical day is never the same, I could be working in product development, on the products you know and love from the brand; or I could be on a Campaign shoot working on the visuals and adverts for the makeup; or I could be fortunate enough to be doing [the makeup of] one of Charlotte’s VIP friends. Very fun but never linear.
How did you start your career as a Makeup Artist?
I started off assisting. I always knew the academic route was never for me, as I always saw myself as quite a creative. I skipped out on going to university, which was hard breaking that to my very African mother.
My first role was assisting a very well-known MUA who had a gorgeous studio in Mayfair, I was so excited and felt I was living my dream. My mum saw how passionate I was and gave me her blessing as she was very proud. It really propelled my love for makeup even more.
After that I went on to work on a few different counters just so I could really get the feel of what it’s like applying makeup on an array of women.
Why did you become a MUA?
Growing up I was always fascinated by how transformative the power of makeup could be, I grew up around a lot of strong women and I was just in awe watching them go through each individual step of their makeup.
I became absolutely obsessed! And then I discovered Charlotte Tilbury and Pat McGrath and that was just the solidifier, all the beautiful work they would create on the runways was just so mesmerising. I knew it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
What has been your greatest achievement in your career so far?
I think I would have to say becoming the National Pro Artist for Charlotte Tilbury. I am one of three in the whole company and that is something I am still very much in awe of, but yet humbled by.
How do you stay healthy body and mind?
Taking time out to reflect and also exercise where and when I can. Also, through Prayer. My time with God is really important to me because that’s when I can really reflect and give thanks about the small things in life that I sometimes take for granted.
What inspires you?
The people around me, from my sisters, to my colleagues and even Charlotte herself. I am really lucky to be surrounded by really inspirational people.
Who is your beauty muse?
Naomi Campbell. I am completely obsessed with her face and how timeless her look is, no matter what decade or era, she always dominates - not only with fashion, but she always keeps her beauty so current.
What are your favourite Charlotte Tilbury Products?
Magic Cream. This is something me or anyone on the team will absolutely not do any makeup without. It’s the perfect base and moisturiser that just preps and welcomes your skin for makeup.
The Airbrush family. There’s not one product within the family, from foundation to bronzer that is not incredible! If you want that gorgeous flawless CT skin, this is the family for you.
Finally, I’d have to say the Beauty Light Wands in Pillow Talk Medium and Goldgasm, these highlighters create a beautiful candlelit glow without being wet to touch.
What are your favourite products for all skin tones?
Eyeshadows, lipsticks and Liners, have no barriers and absolutely anyone can use them. I love the Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise cream shadows, which are so easy to use and are flattering on all skin tones, as they are gorgeous soft shimmers.
What advice would you give to other girls and guys looking to get into the creative industry?
Find your own niche and unique style, this is something that becomes your identity and can be detected across social media. I can always identify a Charlotte Tilbury makeover as it’s such a unique and flawless look.
Also, utilise social media as best as you can, it is your best friend and this is something I am still very much learning.
Beauty is…
Art, confidence and freedom.
Follow Kelechi: @kelechisart