CONNECT WITH JOEL ON INSTAGRAM @makeupbyjoel
Meet The Pros: Joel Vasquez
Celebrity Makeup Artist and New Yorker at Heart
"Hello! My name is Joel Vasquez, and I’m a proud New Yorker, born and raised. Growing up in the city that never sleeps, I was fortunate to be surrounded by endless opportunities that shaped me into the artist I am today. As a full-time makeup artist working in NYC, I’ve built a career that blends my love for fine arts and my passion for makeup.
My journey into this industry began with my interest in fine arts and illustration. I’ve always had a vivid imagination and wanted to channel that into something creative and meaningful. While I started by studying illustration at the Art Students League in New York, I quickly realized that illustration alone wasn’t where I wanted to take my career. I then shifted to skincare and makeup, gaining experience by working for various brands and testing with photographers while assisting editorial makeup artists.
It wasn’t until I found myself on set that my love for this industry truly ignited. Fast forward a few years, and I was lucky enough to meet the legendary Sandy Linter, who became my mentor. I was her first assistant for several years, learning everything I could, and I also had the privilege of working with Vincent Oquendo. Both artists brought different perspectives and strengths—Sandy with her editorial focus and Vincent with his celebrity expertise—giving me a well-rounded education in the craft. As the industry evolved with the rise of social media, I began focusing on building my clientele and expanding my celebrity network. I’m incredibly blessed to do what I love on my own terms and to have the fantastic representation of The Only Agency. Looking back, my career has been a roller coaster, but my curiosity and appreciation for the arts have never wavered."
Advice for Aspiring Makeup Artists
"Don’t be afraid to fail. Mistakes are what help you grow, build trust in yourself, and become a more confident artist. Trusting your instincts allows you to take educated risks, leading to exceptional growth and the creation of defining makeup looks you never thought were possible."
Key Strategies for Success
"Gratitude has been a major factor in my journey. Being grateful for each experience—good or bad—has taught me never to take anything for granted. Treating each opportunity as a defining moment keeps you sharp and allows inspiration to fuel your creativity and growth."
Maintaining a Successful Career in Makeup Artistry
"I’ll admit, I’m not the best at social media! But in today’s world, staying active on socials and building a presence that allows your clients to see your work is crucial. Depending on the area you want to grow in, having an online presence is an essential part of success."
Gerard Cosmetics Kit Favorite
"Complexion is key for me, especially for red carpet looks. The makeup has to be flawless both on camera and in person, considering all the videos taken from different angles. That’s why I love the Slay the Bake Setting Powder from Gerard Cosmetics. It’s fragrance-free, talc-free, and gives me the peace of mind that I won’t have to worry about flashback in HD photos!"
Slay The Bake Sculpting & Setting Powder
Pro Tip for Elevating Your Artistry
"Work smarter, not harder. I have a specific way of unpacking and setting up my kit that aligns with the look I’m going for. Having a routine helps me stay within time constraints while still giving me some wiggle room to adjust as needed. Remember, it’s always easier to add than to take away!"
Stay humble, stay curious <3
Joel's work on Nicki Hilton in Vogue Hong Kong
Joel's work on Kathy Hilton in People's Magazine