Very few New Zealand born makeup artists make it in the fickle world of film and television. Editor Trudi Brewer catches up with hair and makeup designer Susie Glass in her 18th century character home in Auckland. Here's how she manages to stay at the top of her game.

Susie Glass is at her happiest in her makeup truck with a team of actors creating magic for the silver screen. Her talent can be seen in blockbuster movies such as King Kong, Spartacus, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon Sword of Destiny, and the TV movie Jean, the story of Jean Batten. Glass shares her home and beauty inspiration with editor Trudi Brewer.

Career
How did you become a film and TV makeup artist?
After working as a hairdresser for years, I trained as a makeup artist because I was interested in being able to create the entire look. It was at a makeup master class that I met the then head of makeup for TVNZ who offered me a job … it was a matter of being in the right place, at the right time.

What is a typical working day for you?
It's a very early start in the makeup truck, with actors and my team and often it's out on location somewhere, which means each day is different. We all work closely together as a team meeting the schedule for that day to fulfil the needs for the scenes we shoot each day.

What films celebrities have you enjoyed working on and with most?
I have been incredibly lucky with the outstanding and talented people that I get to work with. My first 'celebrity’ was the late John Hurt. It was my first film here in New Zealand, and I will never forget his kindness, grace and good old fashioned wickedness.

What do you love about your career?
Without a doubt the creative outlet of ideas that you can bring to a project as a Makeup Designer, and I love working with people from all walks of life.

What is the one thing that is not negotiable when it comes to your job?
The care factor.

What lessons have you learned on your way to the top?
Know your job, be clear in your instructions and be kind.

What has been your career high to date?
They still keep coming, and that's exciting. But recently I was filming in Bangkok alongside a Thai crew who were both very slick and very talented, and the madness of Bangkok was exhilarating. Also being nominated at the New Zealand Film Awards this year for my makeup design work on Lee Tamahori's film Mahana.

How has your career influenced your style?
Practical streetwear, with a fun edge, as I can be up a mountain one week and in Bangkok the next. My off-duty style is very unpractical. I love high shoes, nice dresses and great-looking hair.

Beauty
What is your golden rule when it comes to beauty?
Look after your skin. Sunscreen and a good serum.

What would we always find in your beauty bag?
A selection of lipsticks in various shades, I use a range. Nars, Lancôme, Bobbi Brown and MAC. And multi-benefit formulations such as BY TERRY and Hourglass that allow me to perfect a quick makeup touch-up.

You have recently created a jade skin roller, how do you use it?
I’m passionate about skincare, and this was something very easily incorporated into anyone's beauty regime. Jade is cooling on the skin, however I keep them in the fridge, so they are chilled. Each morning after cleansing, apply a serum and massage it into your skin using the roller. Roll upward from the neck to the chin, and then across the cheeks, out toward the ear, then under the eye area and temples. Finish by running the roller across the forehead. It takes a few minutes each day to keep the blood flowing to the skin, which rejuvenates the face.

How did you discover them?
I was reading an article about an international makeup artist who I admire, and she was using a jade roller when working with Cate Blanchett, so I had to try it.

Who can use them?
Anyone. It benefits problem prone acne skin to ageing skin. The actors I use the rollers on love the results, and the male actors are left a little speechless.

What is the one beauty product you never leave home without?
It would have to be a dash of lippy.

What’s the number one tip you’ve picked up working with different make-up artists?
Keep your eyes and your mind open, we are always learning.

Which hair products do you rely on?
I love the Oribe range. It truly is result driven, and perfect for my editorial and film work. It gives me the ability to keep reworking the hair over long and challenging shoot days.

Home
How would your describe your home?
It's a heritage home that was built in the 1880’s. It's unique, charming and in a very peaceful location.

What are the benefits of living in a heritage home?
Great bones and a great history. It was built for management who came out from the UK to work at the Chelsea Sugar Works in the late 1800’s. It is cool in summer and easy to heat in winter - my retreat in the city.

What makes a great interior?
Sunlight and open spaces.

What do you always have on your bedside table?
A selection of magazines, a script from a current film that I am working on, flowers and a fragrant candle - and I am happy.

What is your favourite room and why?
My outdoor room. Commonly known as the porch it overlooks the park and the harbour and has that ridiculously feel-good quality about it. Inside the house, the lounge is our hub.

What are your most treasured possessions?
My beautiful rings I had made from my mothers and grandmothers diamonds wedding rings I never take them off, and they are incredibly significant to me.

What’s the best interior advice?
Work from a blank canvas that way you never get bored - you can make it as vibrant or calm as you want it to be - and have fun along the way.

Makeup MAC Cosmetics
Photographer Milana Radojcic

For more information on the Jade Rollers contact susieglass1@gmail.com