An Exclusive Interview with Eryn Krueger Makesh, Make-up Artist for Glee

For months, I’ve been brainstorming on how to write about my absolute favorite television show Glee, which premieres it’s second season tonight, when a few weeks ago, I coincidentally ran into the head of make-up for the show at the Make-Up Designory store in Los Angeles! Eryn Krueger Mekash, make-up department head of Glee, had made prior engagements to have lunch with Mark Shostrom (her former employer and one of our LA Special Effects instructors) and one of her very own day check make-up artists, Melissa Buell (Manager of the MUD Shop in Los Angeles). Melissa introduced me to Eryn on their way out the front door, and during the introduction I mentioned that I was considering writing a blog on Glee, and I added that she would be an inspiration to my story. I couldn’t help to ask if I could hold a brief interview with an established and successful make-up artist like herself!

1. Did you seek formal training or were you inspired by artists?

In 1986, I attended a special effects school ran by Sandra Burman called "Hollywood Film School.” I did make-up for plays and Halloween prior to the education and always loved it. I also took art classes from junior high through college. To further my education, I enrolled in make-up seminars when I was available. But, really… I just told people "I can do that!" I would research how to do something and go for it.

As a freshman in high school, I was obsessed with "American Werewolf in London" and "The Thing.” I saw a drive-in double feature (that really dates me) and they were showing behind-the-scenes with Rick Baker and Rob Bottin, respectively. A couple years later the "Thriller" video came out. Well, forget about it… I was hooked!

2. What are your favorite MUD products?

I love the MUD brushes, especially #940, #510 and #330. I also really like the #1 and #2 Foundation Palettes and Corrector Palette. They are in my set kit and are great for emergencies.

3.Do you use any MUD products on Glee?

I use the MUD brushes on Glee. Melissa Buell turned me onto MUD’s Face Primer – it works great for many people. Also, the Deep Brown Corrector and the Cream Foundations are awesome on set!

4. What is your prediction for the make-up industry?

Aaah, yes. I think because of the way our business has been getting tighter and tighter, we have two options: accept some lower wages, or not work at all. I see a lot of big make-up people that haven't worked in a long time because they aren't willing to take wages that are close to the wages they made in the beginning of their careers. I also think we are going back to diversified make-up artists. Producers do not want to hire people that can only do beauty OR effects make-up. It's going back to the “Old Hollywood Ways.” Do it all, or don’t do it at all. I only hire make-up artists that can do everything. I want someone who can think fast on their feet and can do anything.

5. What is your advice to upcoming or working make-up artists?

Don’t feel intimidated by calling other make-up artists for jobs. Do any job available and take pictures of your work to get your name out there. Market yourself by posting your photos on famehog.com (a great website to show off your work). Remain, humble, calm, and professional, and no gossiping, name-calling, or back-stabbing. This is a small business and you can go down in flames very quickly if you get a bad rep. No matter how talented you are, if you are a nightmare, no one will hire you. Be confident, research your work beforehand, and wear clean underwear. The people that continue to have long, successful careers have maintained that same level of professionalism mixed with talent. If you really want it, you can do it! It is the same old advice, but it's true.

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One of the characteristics I admire mostly about Eryn is being as humble as she is with that amount of talent and power. It seems like, and I’ve heard from various makeup artists, that she is completely and utterly down to earth. This experience gives me a new sense of idolization.

A special thanks to Eryn, Melissa and Mark.