Processing Perspective w/ Paula

When we think about processing our perspectives as creatives, particularly in the age of social media, the process itself can feel intimidating. Finding one’s voice is not an overnight process, and for most of us, would not lead to overnight success. Yet, that’s the whole point of art, right? To find ourselves or whatever we’re looking for and to grow confident in exploring and understanding just that. Paula Lo is a makeup artist living in Taiwan who has done the work to find her style through years of following and a new, bold and beautiful commitment to unlearning. Upon discovering Paula’s work, I was blown away at her technique - not because it was trendy or “palatable”, but because it was raw and real. Paula manages to create looks that feel so relatable and obtainable in terms of creating it and I think that’s the signs of someone becoming an individual…of standing in their power. When I asked her what made her stand out, as an artist, she said, “I’m pursuing something that’s above the “pretty”’.” Paula shares with us below why her voice means more to her now than it ever has before.

What piqued your interest in makeup? 

After a long period of creating messy looks, by 2018, I started doing something that focuses a little more on skill, technique and detail. I’d gotten tired of doing looks that were being featured on models - they were all the rage in Taiwan. It got to where I’d create something and then detest it almost immediately especially the crowd pleasing aspect of it. Thus, in 2019 I decided to take the bull by the horns, left all the rules behind, bucked the trend and started my own “creative artistry look”. I’m no longer willing to cater to the interest and taste of the public. That’s when I realized not only are the possibilities endless, I’ve tapped into unexplored potential.

When did you start doing your own makeup? 

After graduating from high school, I started my “messy look” period which included dull, ditch-water and scary, smokey eye looks for a long time. Seeing so much breathtaking artwork that was being done by incredibly talented creatives on Instagram made me aware of where and how my skills were rough or lacking. Only then did I decide to improve. While most people thought my makeup was already “good enough”, I knew that I was far from my ambition. I started to practice around the clock. It was nonstop as long as I was awake. I even went as far as declining invitations to get together from loved ones - and it wasn’t even a sacrifice to me. It took me ten years to get here! So, I appreciate that all of the friends and kind people that I’ve met thus far on IG that support me, encourage me, like and share my work. Above all, I’m happy to have done all of this from scratch and I plan to continue practicing.

What inspires your looks? 

I usually capture inspiration from the little things in my daily life like: paper clips, leaves, sweater patterns, the design of the purse, creating concepts around lines and graphics mixed with an array of colors. All of my looks are centered around my eye shape - it’s how I balance my looks. At the same time, there are so many amazing artists whose gorgeous artwork offers me unlimited inspiration and new perspectives. I also enjoy watching fashion shows, in my spare time, which influenced my sensitivity to certain groups of colors and how they appear on clothing like dresses.

What social justice causes/topics of discussion are you passionate about? Do you incorporate any of them into your makeup? 

This is a good question. Since the issue of cruelty-free beauty products is not quite as common here in Taiwan, I think I’ve developed an interest in this topic! Many influencers and youtubers were sponsored to promote the products that are being tested on animals which places our awareness at below-standard. This is one of the reasons why I will devote myself to running my IG account with a more powerful voice once I have a large enough platform. I’m not trying to be a goalkeeper of cruelty free - there are already lots of cutting-edge companies that are transparent about not harming animals. I think we all could do better by our animal friends. 

How have you been impacted by COVID-19? And what role has makeup played in your life since "sheltering-in-place" restrictions were mandated? 

Thankfully, COVID-19 is under control where I live - I’m lucky enough to live my daily life pretty uninterrupted in comparison to people in most countries nowadays. However, given the depressed atmosphere flooding the entire world, I feel more compelled to create brighter looks with pastels at the focus. I’ve also integrated some elements of nature into my makeup looks including butterflies, little bugs, nebula, flowers and stars. I believe colours have therapeutic effects on people - helping them to relax and chill out. I want to continue providing positive, visual enjoyment for people through my work. 

Favorite Food: Salad. It’s not really health-centered for me. I just simply enjoy the vegetables and, to be honest, I do find myself eating fast food often because it’s convenient more than enjoyable. I also enjoy spending time by myself so that inspires a lot of my choices around food, etc. 

Favorite Music Artist/Band: I used to be obsessed with Marilyn Manson, Ozzy Osbourne and Green Day when I was tiny. (Yeah, I’m a ‘90s kid!) Now, I tend to enjoy more softer and calmer music like Damien Rice, The Notwist, Maximilian Hecker, My Chemical Romance, etc. 

Favorite Color: All of them! Or, should I say, there’s no color that I don’t like, but any shade of green is particularly attention-grabbing to me.

Favorite Makeup Brand: There are lots of brands that I love so much! The Anastasia Beverly Hills Collection, Melt Cosmetics… I also use Milk Makeup pretty often for my makeup looks.

Favorite Facial Feature: Skin. I always believe clean, healthy skin helps to create a more flawless look. 

Favorite Makeup Product: Eyeshadow, without a doubt. Blush is my second choice if I want to do a minimal look.