# Tasks & work activities — make-up artist

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 39-5091.00 (Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Confer with stage or motion picture officials and performers to determine desired effects.
- **[Core]** Duplicate work precisely to replicate characters' appearances on a daily basis.
- **[Core]** Establish budgets, and work within budgetary limits.
- **[Core]** Apply makeup to enhance or alter the appearance of people appearing in productions such as movies.
- **[Core]** Alter or maintain makeup during productions as necessary to compensate for lighting changes or to achieve continuity of effect.
- **[Core]** Select desired makeup shades from stock, or mix oil, grease, and coloring to achieve specific color effects.
- **[Core]** Cleanse and tone the skin to prepare it for makeup application.
- **[Core]** Assess performers' skin type to ensure that makeup will not cause break-outs or skin irritations.
- **[Core]** Analyze a script, noting events that affect each character's appearance, so that plans can be made for each scene.
- **[Core]** Requisition or acquire needed materials for special effects, including wigs, beards, and special cosmetics.
- **[Core]** Write makeup sheets and take photos to document specific looks and the products used to achieve the looks.
- **[Core]** Examine sketches, photographs, and plaster models to obtain desired character image depiction.
- **[Core]** Attach prostheses to performers and apply makeup to create special features or effects, such as scars, aging, or illness.
- **[Core]** Evaluate environmental characteristics, such as venue size and lighting plans, to determine makeup requirements.
- **[Core]** Design rubber or plastic prostheses that can be used to change performers' appearances.
- **[Core]** Create character drawings or models, based upon independent research, to augment period production files.
- **[Core]** Study production information, such as character descriptions, period settings, and situations, to determine makeup requirements.
- **[Core]** Provide performers with makeup removal assistance after performances have been completed.
- **[Core]** Demonstrate products to clients, and provide instruction in makeup application.
- **[Core]** Clean supplies such as makeup brushes.
- **[Supplemental]** Advise hairdressers on the hairstyles required for character parts.
- **[Supplemental]** Wash and reset wigs.

## Detailed work activities

- Apply cleansing or conditioning agents to client hair, scalp, or skin.
- Apply makeup to alter or enhance appearance.
- Assess skin or hair conditions.
- Clean equipment or supplies.
- Clean tools or equipment.
- Collaborate with others to determine production details.
- Demonstrate activity techniques or equipment use.
- Design costumes or cosmetic effects for characters.
- Groom wigs or hairpieces.
- Manage budgets for personal services operations.
- Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
- Prepare operational reports or records.
- Review production information to determine costume or makeup requirements.
- Teach health or hygiene practices.