Known for her unique eye for detail and the ability to look at people as somewhat of a physical canvas, Mildura-based makeup artist Louise Stuart is no stranger to the beauty scene.
After Stuart participated in Melbourne Fashion Week (MFW) for the first time this year, Style Up caught up with the talented makeup artist to learn more about what it is like to work behind the scenes at one of the fashion industries most anticipated events.
She said the opportunity was an "incredible experience".
"I was especially moved by seeing so many First Nations models represented, and I felt immense pride watching the Ganbu Marra show—it was truly powerful," Stuart said.
Stuart said she was thrilled to have been a part of the events all-Indigenous Ganbu Marra runway.
"Throughout the week, I worked on six out of the seven days. For two of those days, I was on the tools, doing makeup for the Ganbu Marra Runway and the Volvo Electric Runway," she said.
"I also did a MFW pop-up runway for the brand Realism / Secret Sneaker Store.
"The rest of the time, I assisted other artists and helped with backstage touch-ups, ensuring everyone looked their best for each show."
When discussing her favourite moments of the high fashion event, Stuart said working with First Nations models made the MFW experience even more rewarding.
"My highlight of Melbourne Fashion Week was the incredible opportunity to work with three beautiful Indigenous models: Chenile Chandler, Savannah Kruger, and Sam Harris," she said.
"Working with Sam Harris alongside Kaydee Kyle-Taylor, another talented Indigenous makeup artist, was especially meaningful.
"Sam is such an icon within our community, someone I've admired since I was young, and her inner and outer beauty is inspiring."
She said working with the entire MFW team and being able to sit in the audience and watch the ganbu marra runway are memories she will cherish.
"And as mentioned previously, being able to sit in the audience and watch the ganbu marra runway and see our culture and talent celebrated was definitely one of my highlights," Stuart said.
"I loved working with entire makeup team at Melbourne Fashion Week. Their energy and creativity made the experience not only rewarding but also so much fun."
Stuart said she found this year's event to be rather inclusive, with the talented makeup artist addressing that she was inspired to see several Indigenous creatives involved and participating at MFW - including fellow makeup artist and friend Kaydee Taylor.
"Melbourne Fashion Week felt refreshingly inclusive for First Nations talent —it was inspiring to see so many Indigenous people taking up space and being celebrated in the industry," she said.
"My true passion lies in editorial and runway work, and I love combining that with travel and connecting with my community.
"My involvement came about through Hart & Co, a creative management agency representing talented artists. I was fortunate to be recommended to them by Kaydee Taylor (Ithinksheafreak), who I deeply respect.
"Kaydee is not only an exceptional artist but also a passionate advocate for our community, always uplifting others and creating more opportunities for us all."
Stuart says that she is looking forward to engaging in more opportunities and experiences that support both her community and craft.
"Looking ahead, I'm eager to expand into other runways and editorial projects, including events like the Melbourne Fashion Festival and Country to Couture, with a focus on working alongside First Nations talent," Stuart told Style Up.
"I would also love to continue working with Melbourne Fashion Week and build on the amazing experiences I've had there."
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