Karla Powell
Karla Powell is one busy lady – as an international award-winning makeup artist for both celebrity and fashion clients across London and New York, she’s juggling her professional work with her huge personal online following. As well as that, she’s an ambassador for one of our favourite budget-friendly beauty brands, MUA, helping them to create the gorgeous looks on their blogs and social media.
Q
What are your first memories of makeup and when did you realise you had a passion for it? A
Applying my mother's concealer under my eyes and thinking, ‘Wow, this is magic!’ I thought I looked amazing. I remember showing my best friend and informing that I was going to school like this tomorrow - I must have been about 8 years old! Q
What made you decide to become a professional makeup artist? A
When I discovered Pat McGrath (one of Britain’s most famed and influential makeup artists). I couldn't believe that a make-up artist was paid for a living to make people look beautiful. Q
What advice would you give to budding makeup artists? A
Learn the art of the business and find your niche, whether that’s bridal, editorial, TV or film… just be the best at it and keep practising your makeup skills. Finally, don’t forget to be humble. 
Q
Which are your favourite high end and budget-friendly makeup brands? A
I'm a huge fan of Tom Ford and Charlotte Tilbury, however, you will find me spending most of my money on budget-friendly makeup brands such as NYX Cosmetics and GOSH. Q
You're a brand ambassador for Makeup Academy - why did you come on board with MUA and what do you love about it? A
I was first inspired by MUA’s entrepreneurial spirit, creativity and innovation, and their constant unique product development at affordable prices. I knew I could make my role as big as I wanted it to be which can be very empowering and motivating when you're at the start of your makeup career.
Working for MUA Cosmetics has given me the opportunity to inspire, teach and show other makeup artists (and women in general) that you can achieve any makeup look with a high street budget brand.
Q
If you could pick your top five MUA products, what would they be? A
The Velvet Lip Lacquers, Luxe Glow Beam Highlighting Powder, Pro-Base Makeup Fixing Mist, Eye Define Waterproof Mascara and the entire range of makeup brushes - I’m obsessed! Q
Which new MUA launches are you most excited about? A
The Art of Illumination range! I’m particularly excited about the Radiant Illumination Highlighting Kit which combines a mixture of matte and shimmery highlight shades. It adds a gorgeous brightness and glow to the skin, and is perfect for a fresh and luminous look for any skin type. 
