Nurturing aspiring makeup artists to excel in creative artistry
THE beauty industry in Sarawak is flourishing, providing a platform for artists and technicians to develop their skills. With a growing pool of talent, the region is home to an increasing number of multi-skilled individuals making waves in the field.
Melissa Phung, the visionary behind Le Atelier Fashion and Creative Makeup Studio, is passionate about nurturing aspiring makeup artists to excel not only in traditional makeup but also in creative artistry. “My goal is to inspire young people, not just in makeup but in all forms of creativity,” Phung explained.
Commenting on the evolving landscape, Phung noted how exposure to digital platforms has significantly broadened the horizons for today’s youth compared to two or three decades ago. “Nowadays, girls are venturing beyond conventional white-collar jobs and exploring opportunities in the beauty industry. I hope the courses at Le Atelier help individuals achieve their dreams,” she added.
A humble beginning
Growing up in the small town of Bintulu, Phung recalled having not much to do but watch television, and often found herself captivated by fashion and beauty programmes. “Watching these shows sparked my interest in makeup. I observed trends and wondered why we didn’t have such things here,” she reminisced.
Despite her curiosity and ambition, pursuing a creative career wasn’t initially an option. “My father questioned my choices, so I felt obliged to enrol in a course that promised financial stability,” Phung shared. She chose to study Business, completing her degree in the shortest time possible.
After earning her degree, she approached her father with a request to pursue makeup training. Equipped with her business degree and later an MBA, she also gained a makeup certification and balanced her time working at a bank while offering makeup services on weekends.
Even as a part-time makeup artist, Phung felt unfulfilled, as she couldn’t replicate the creative looks she had admired as a child. In 2016, she made the bold decision to leave her banking career and dedicate herself fully to makeup. She took courses to refine her skills and gained hands-on experience in creating stunning transformations for her clients.
When Phung welcomed her first child in 2020, she realised the need for a more flexible career. ““I felt that I had to plan for something to do until I am old. But it has to be makeup-related. That was when I thought I could teach makeup, and teaching is something that I feel like I can do,” she said.
Establishing Le Atelier
Launching Le Atelier during the challenging pandemic period, Phung was grateful for the academy’s success as students flocked to learn the art of makeup. The studio not only imparts technical skills but also encourages students to participate in competitions and gain valuable experience.
To date, Le Atelier has worked with a diverse clientele, including local celebrities, influencers, event hosts, and delegates for Miss Tourism International 2022/23. Reflecting on her career highlights, Phung recalled, “One memorable moment was providing touch-ups for our beloved leader, the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, during a film shoot. I was nervous, but it was a proud achievement. I even wrote him a letter about my vision.”
The value of a service
Like any other art form, the craft of makeup goes beyond the simple act of applying products to the skin. Each look, whether natural or dramatic, involves meticulous attention to detail and years of practice to perfect.
While some may perceive professional makeup services as costly, Phung emphasised that the expertise behind the service is priceless. “We don’t compromise on quality by using cheaper products to lower costs. Applying makeup is a skill honed through experience, enabling us to understand what suits each client best.”
Phung also highlighted the individuality of each makeup artist’s touch, shaped by their unique strengths and preferences. “That’s why I teach my students to be adaptable and attuned to their clients’ desires. Each client has different preferences, and as makeup artists, we must cater to those needs rather than sticking to a single style.”
Looking ahead
As Sarawak’s beauty industry continues to grow, Phung dreams of one day seeing her vision—what she admired on television as a child—brought to life in the region. For a glimpse of the incredible work produced by the students of Le Atelier, visit their Instagram page: @le_atelier_co.
