AMKA TONIA
Mahlatse Chepape, commonly known as AMKA TONIA of AMKA BEAUTY, was born in 2002 and raised in Limpopo Botlokwa, a small village located just outside the city of Polokwane. After completing her matric, she relocated to Centurion, where she currently resides with her family. She is a self-taught makeup artist with extensive experience in the industry, having collaborated with renowned brands such as Nars, Levi’s, Mehron Makeup, Maxhosa, Garnier, Strongbow, and Nike.
The conversation she engages in underscores the significance of collaboration, financial viability, and accessibility within the makeup industry.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in makeup artistry? And when did you start? Is it important for one to have a background in visual arts and know how to draw/paint?
I began experimenting with makeup in 2020. I wouldn’t say it was part of my plan because I never knew what career path I wanted to pursue. In Grade 12, I needed to earn money, so I decided to start learning. My passion for makeup grew as I acquired more clients.
I wouldn’t argue that having a background in visual arts is essential for someone who enjoys makeup. Not everyone is drawn to creative makeup; some prefer natural or full glam looks. When I started in 2020, I experimented a lot with flowers, clouds, and animal prints on my face. I remember one look where I used Colgate toothpaste because I didn’t have face paints, but I had envisioned a black and white design. So, for me, the artistic aspect of makeup has always been present.
How do you approach creating a makeup look for a client? What steps do you typically take? Can you describe your signature makeup style or technique?
After matriculation, I took a gap year and began drawing on my phone using PicsArt. I wanted to incorporate this artistry into my career by offering clients personalized drawings of the looks they desired to try. The process involved me sketching the desired look for the client, creating a face chart tailored specifically to that look. If the client approved the concept, we proceeded with the execution.
My signature makeup technique is editorial and futuristic, and Amka Beauty is best known for crafting bold looks that emulate art, particularly with stable graphic liner styles.
“…people believe that makeup is just beauty and I think it is an art form and it is self-expression.”
Can you share a memorable experience you’ve worked on with a client or on a particular project? What is your approach to collaborative work?
This was one of the biggest challenges in my career. We met at a collaboration shoot. She was scheduled to use the studio after my team and I finished our shoot, and she asked me to help with her eyelashes. As we chatted, she followed me on Instagram and expressed her admiration for my work. At the time, my portfolio lacked the extravagant makeup looks that usually attract attention, yet she requested to collaborate with me, sharing her own ideas. She wanted body-painted makeup. This experience is memorable for me because not only did it challenge me, but it also unlocked a different level of creativity within myself. I realized that I’m not just a ‘liner girl.’ I can delve into body painting and even experiment with special effects makeup.
What are some of the misconceptions about your industry that you would like to speak on?
I don’t follow anyone, I’ve always been rebellious in nature. I’ve always been someone who stands by herself. I would say people believe that makeup is just beauty and I think makeup is more than that it’s an art form and it is self-expression.
“I’ve always dreamed of launching my own makeup brand. I envision offering products that align with my brand identity, which leans toward editorial and futuristic makeup.”
When it comes to the business of makeup artistry, is it a financially viable career and what advice would you give someone starting out that you wished you knew earlier? & What manifestations do you have for Amka Beauty for the future?
Makeup can become a financially viable career depending on the path you choose. While it’s possible to work regular hours and secure contracts for TV sets, I personally find that being a creative makeup artist is more challenging.
The advice I would offer is to conduct thorough research and have a clear understanding of your goals. I regret not researching potential agencies earlier, as they could have helped me attract more clients. However, it’s never too late, and I’m still determined to pursue this avenue. Additionally, continually build a diverse portfolio showcasing my skills and experience.
As for my aspirations, I’ve always dreamed of launching my own makeup brand. I envision offering products that align with my brand identity, which leans toward editorial and futuristic makeup. This would include paints, graphic liners, and other tools that I personally use and endorse.
What is a quotable you live by?
Proverb, the host of South African Idols was asked what advice he would give to young people watching. He shared a powerful mantra: every time you contemplate your aspirations in life, ask yourself the following questions:
- What do you want?
- What are you going to do to achieve it?
- What are you waiting for?
These three questions have resonated with me for years and have guided me as I evolve in my makeup artistry career. They have simplified the process of outlining my objectives and identifying the necessary steps to reach my goals.
Crew
Creative Director & Editor-in-Chief: Renaé Mangena
Art Director & Vice-Editor: Anastatia Nkhuna
Producer: Hlengiwe Mkwayi
Graphic Design: Shaylah Pardey
Photography: Simba Takaedza
Photography Editor & Retoucher: Banele J
DOP: Wesley Takaedza
Digi: Nkateko Mondhlana
Stills Lighting Tech: Gomolemo Moloto
AC: Sibusiso Kgokoane
MUA: Mahlatse Chepape
Stylist: Kutlwano Hlomuka
Production Coordinator: Rorisang Sebiloane
Talent manager: Liziwe Kwanini
Logistics: Tinyiko Baloyi
