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The World Is Your Canvas
The finest artists throughout history, from Da Vinci to Picasso, Rembrandt, Warhol and Basquiat, all shared one fine tool as their foundation: a canvas. Hair stylists are another form of modern-day artist; they take their creativity to a different kind of canvas, a head of hair. Whether you're a painter, a sculptor, an actress or otherwise, every creative has a unique approach to their canvas of choice. I am both a painter and a salon coordinator, so I get to see how both kinds of artists approach their work.
Inspiration Equals Energy
Before I approach a painting, my mood is crucial. I need to be in a positive, inspired state before I begin. How can any artist, painter or hair stylist produce great work in a lax mood? A hair stylist gets excited just from seeing a client in need of change. That alone motivates them to approach that client (or canvas) with thrilling energy. When the client is happy, a wonderful synergy forms, and magic is made.
What Excites a Hair Stylist?
A truly motivated hair artist is inspired by just about anything; they love tackling creative challenges and setting trends. One of the most desirable “hair canvases,” if you will, is someone looking for a dramatic change. Imagine someone walking into your salon with super long hair, three inches of roots and faded color. A stylist's eyes light up with delight as they happily accept them as the transformation of the day. That pushes any artist beyond their boundaries to reach a new level of creativity and satisfaction. The results are always phenomenal.
Getting in the Groove
Starting the creative process is different for everyone. Some are motivated by the music that's playing. Others find confidence and flair in the way they dress and present themselves. Artistry is a visual stimulant, after all, especially in the beauty business, where image is everything! If I had to choose someone to trust with cutting and coloring my hair, I'd definitely choose the stylist who's decked out from head to toe, looking like a million bucks. They themselves are walking advertisements for their artistry.
For true creatives, being an artist is a way of life. It's a philosophy, not just a cool catchphrase or a hobby. True artists take their work just as seriously as you take your desire to become their masterpiece.
The Canvas Is Alive
As a traditional painter, my canvas gives no resistance or feedback; it's an inanimate object. For the hair artist, however, the canvas is a living, breathing person with desires and expectations. I give enormous credit to how they connect with that living canvas and make them happy. A master stylist can even recover from errors along the creative journey. If that vibrant red Elizabeth requested turns out a bit dull, or not quite the shade she envisioned, things can go haywire, fast! Elizabeth may react in a way the artist didn't anticipate, and they have to be ready for that.
Artists, hair stylists, all creatives in general, are like alchemists. They can take almost anything and turn it into a better version of itself. That is a sacred practice, and we would all do well to appreciate it more and give our gratitude to the artists of our world.