Getting Started 

In my senior project, I will embark upon a hybrid project of designing and teaching grayscale makeup for the 2022 production of the Twilight Zone. I had had previous makeup experiences from shows and stage makeup classes, but this was a concept that was very new to me. I reached out to my previous stagecraft teacher Ms. Winter and current teacher Mr. Blank to be my mentor for this project. But unfortunately, their schedules didn't make them available to help. So I asked the director Karen Pollard to be in that position and she happily accepted.

 

I started my research by looking up tutorial videos on grayscale and going through the current makeup products that the stagecraft class has. I furthered my learning by attending the Jean Fox masterclass in early September, where she gave feedback and techniques on the grayscale makeup scheme. I started experimenting with the airbrush machines from Temptu Air that were very prominent in her class. After doing some trial and error tests with models, I realised that the black airbrush paint has an underlying color of blue, which became quite visible when mixed with the white under the light. I tried another airbrush ink brand but the same thing continues to happen.

 

After more tests we realized that the creams of the brand Ben Nye and Mehron worked the best in terms of easy application. What I need to figure out moving forward is creating a cream combination that does not turn blue under the light. That can be affordable, made in large batches, and is undeniably gray. I need to determine this combination by October 19th.