VAMP ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DANIELLE BATTAGLIA

Tell the world who you are and what got you interested in becoming a makeup artist.

My name is Danielle Battaglia, a Tampa/Orlando based makeup artist.  You can see my work on my website www.makeupbydaniellebattaglia.com and on IG @dee_bee_fx.  I have always loved makeup and was an avid cosplayer for many years, however I didn’t pursue a career in it until I was 40 years old.

What programs did you take at VAMP and when did you graduate?

I started with Modern Effects, since that was my first love.  I quickly realized that in order to become a well-rounded makeup artist it was in my best interest to take the beauty class as well.  It was honestly one of the best decisions I made.  Taking both classes has given me the skills to handle any job.  I graduated in 2020 from both classes.

Special effects prosthetic creature makeup applied by Danielle for a Cocktails and Screams commercial.

What was your favorite thing to learn about from both programs while attending VAMP and why?

In Modern Effects, sculpting is at the top of my list.  The Modern Effects instructor, Brian Mahoney, is a master sculptor and there is no better way to learn than hands-on.  In Beauty Professional, clean beauty was the most challenging for me, and therefore my favorite.  I have a heavy hand by nature and learning restraint is absolutely key to many makeup jobs.

How would you describe your artistry style?

In FX, I would say I am heavily influenced by the 1980’s and 1990’s.  Particularly the Jim Henson and Stan Winston era.  In beauty, I would consider myself a glam artist but I specialize in mature skin.

Special effects Siren prosthetic application and airbrush makeup for Sea World’s Howl-O-Scream, and fantasy glam application for Sea World’s Spooktacular.

What kind of makeup applications are your favorite to do and why?

I love the complete transformation of FX makeup, like monster making or applying a full old age makeup.  There is nothing better than twisting one reality into another.  In the beauty world, I do love a full beat, but prefer clean camera-ready for film and production.

Prosthetic Two Face makeup based on the Batman comic book character.  Sculpted, applied, painted, and eyeball fabricated by Danielle Battaglia.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about special effects makeup artistry?

That we are magicians.  Your average client has no idea how much time, product, skill, and MONEY go into the project they have in mind.  They will often come with high expectations and low budgets.

Do you have a favorite makeup artist?

Eryn Krueger Mekash is my favorite artist.  Not only is she incredibly talented and humble, but she is also unfailingly kind.

Two films Danielle has worked on.

Who or what inspires you to create?

Other artists inspire me!  Nothing gets me more pumped to do something cool than seeing others do amazing work!

What was the most rewarding job you’ve worked on so far and why?

My most rewarding job is under an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement).  But I can say the reward is always working with a great team.

Special effects prosthetic makeups applied by Danielle.  Blue alien makeup applied for Rauw Alejandro album promo with fellow VAMP graduate Emily Chmielewski.

What is your favorite makeup to use personally?

In FX it’s European Body Art. And in Beauty I prefer MAC.

What is the most used product in your professional makeup kit?

Anti-shine and blood.

Special effects prosthetic makeups applied by Danielle.

What would your ultimate dream job be?

Eventually I’d like to settle into teaching, but before that I would like to have the honor of working on any of the Marvel films.

What advice would you give to those who are just getting started in the makeup industry?

Don’t stop pushing.  If the work isn’t there, still practice at home.  Create a project to work on.  Don’t let yourself become stagnant.

Edited for grammar, content, and clarity.  MAY 2023.