Makenzie Moon Phelan in the Studio, all images courtesy of the artist, 2019.
The Extravagant discusses art, culture and makeup with Makenzie Moon Phelan, NYC based artist and socialite, and daughter of wickedly fun art world patrons Amy and John Phelan. Drawing from a wide range of cultural references, we dive into her work as a makeup artist and her contemporary art practice:
What drew you to the world of make-up? What do you feel is the role of the make-up artist and how does your fine art background (i.e. painting) inform your practice?
“Since I was young, I have been interested in both fine art and make-up for cinema or fashion. Before parties and events, my mom and her friends would have me apply their make-up just at the age of seven, and I realized this is something I really enjoyed creatively. Creating and being around Contemporary Art heavily influences my make-up practice. From thinking about how palettes and materials work together, to the physical application of pigment is so painterly.”
What inspires you, where do you draw inspiration from? We noticed Stephen Hawking on your Insta, who inspires you?
“In my opinion, everyone’s view of the world is very different up to the point where my blue could be your green. I think how different people view our world is what has shaped and shifted basic human knowledge and understanding. Whether it be philosophers, artists, scientist, or famous mathematicians; had they not shared their personal world [inside of their head] with the public, our universe would lack so much color and expansiveness.”
“I am really inspired by the artists Will Cotton, Marilyn Minter, Marc Dennis, and Richard Phillips due to their fine craft. Currently I’m hooked on this brilliant Italian artist Paola Pivi. I think the mind and methods behind her works are beautiful.”
“I am also really inspired by trends in decades. I love the 60’s, especially Edie Sedgwick, and I also am fascinated with 18th Century aesthetic. Adding contemporary palettes to an old time period is really fun for me.”
Ornamentation on an anthropological level exists throughout human history, what is the role of make-up in society in your opinion?
“Makeup is a form of self expression. It also allows people the ability to enhance their natural beauty by using different color palettes, glitter, symbols and light diffusion.”
What is your dream commission as a make-up artist? Is it cinema, is it runway, etc;
“I feel like my work is multi-faceted, so I would be thrilled to work in film or runway, but my dream project would be any form of collaboration or work with Ve Neill [of Beetlejuice and Hunger Game fame] one day. She is an extremely powerful woman in the makeup industry who’s work has influenced me since I was a little kid.”
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For an easy Day-to-Night Look -
By Makenzie Moon Phelan
What trends do you love in make-up and obversely what do you dislike? Favourite brands? Favourite makeup artists?
“My favorite trend in makeup is a basic cat eye with a red lip. I usually never leave my house without a cat eye. It’s a classic yet sexy look. I’m also really into the 60’s makeup trends. I think the big brows, dark sculpted eyes and dramatic lashes is a very feminine and playful look. I also love drag makeup. I’ve learned some of the best techniques through the drag community when I was living in London.”
“I’m not a huge fan of the heavy contour look, or any kind of makeup that covers freckles. I think makeup should always enhance one’s natural and inner beauty.”
“My favorite makeup artist in the beauty industry of all time is Charlotte Tilbury, that is a person I would also love to work with. In the special effects realm my favorite artist is Ve Neill. Pertaining to music, it is hard for me to pin down a favorite band, but my favorite musician is Marilyn Manson. I think he is brilliant, and a walking piece of art. There’s so much more to him than what lays on the surface.”
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The Freshest Lewk at the Zombie Apocalypse.
What is the relationship between art and fashion?
“Both art and fashion are an extension of an individual’s creativity. Creating or collecting art is an expression of self, just as fashion is.”
When did you become interested in art?
“From a very young age I have been creating art! I grew up in a household that not only welcomed creativity, but championed it. I have always been surrounded by incredible works of contemporary art, and I feel very fortunate that in most cases I know or am friends with the artist that has made them.”
Tell us about your own work as an artist? What projects have you taken part of? What’s your favourite media to work in (other than cosmetics)
“I love working with oil on canvas, and have had private instruction by some incredible artists such as Marc Dennis and Will Cotton. When I was younger, the problems I faced growing up (my personal inner turmoil) created a lot of noise in my head, I started writing poetry at a very young age as an outlet, then began illustrating the emotions behind my poetry and it evolved from there.”
How do you navigate between a cultural patron, an artist, and a muse?
“I don’t see these as being separate parts of my personality. I think they all relate to each other, and I am just thrilled I can be part of a creative community in all of these capacities. People inspire me on a daily basis, and I feel happy I can inspire others as well.”
How does growing up in a family of art collectors impact your own aesthetic preferences?
“Growing up around some of the best examples of contemporary art is an incredible education. Not only do I get to learn about new artists, but I am able to study the depth behind the individual behind the work, and learn about the material process of an artist. It also really helped me embrace my individuality as a person, leaving me unafraid to push boundaries with the way I dressed, or wore my makeup. Growing up around art the way I did also inspired me to let go of any fear of being experimental.”
Without any limitations tell us five artists or works of art you’d love to see in your dream collection.
- One [of] Paola Pivi’s colorful feathered (life size) Polar bears and a piece from her “Zebras” series
- One of Marilyn Manson’s water color pieces
- Anything by Marc Rothko
- One of Will Cotton’s Cake Sculptures
- A Donald Judd “Stacks”
Are you affiliated with any institutions, foundations, or organizations?
“I just moved back to New York City, and am exploring new opportunities. As of right now I am affiliated [with] my family’s foundation. The Phelan Family Foundation believes that all people deserve the opportunity to succeed. To accomplish its mission, the Foundation funds a broad range of causes including education, the arts, health care, military personnel, and vulnerable populations. The Foundation seeks to address community needs at all levels—be it access to clean water, safe shelter and nutritious food, or education and training that unleashes the potential for economic prosperity. It also seeks to effect lasting change and measurable outcomes, while maintaining the Phelans’ sense of compassion and gratitude to the world.”
Having lived in many different places: where is home, literally and philosophically?
“I am currently based in New York, which is where I grew up. New York City is home for me. I’ve spent time living in London and Los Angeles, but I recently moved back to NYC after finishing a program in special effects makeup on the West coast. I also spend a lot of time in Palm Beach, FL and Aspen, CO with my family.”
What are some of your favourite places to visit in the world, what shouldn’t we miss? What are some of your favourite art world or cultural events?
“Every summer I look forward to attending the ArtCrush events for the Aspen Art Museum, an event hosted by my amazing Mother, Amy Phelan. My favorite places I’ve traveled to though are Dubai, Chiang Mai, Jaipur, and Kyoto.”
Follow more of Makenzie Moon Phelan’s adventures on Instagram at:
@Moonefx @Kenziemooner
