In old Greek and Roman Theatre, makeup was considered to be unnecessary. The actors who portrayed characters that were not their age, gender, or ethnicity simply wore masks to show that they were someone else. It was not until Thespis, the actor considered to be the first to use makeup, came around that actors began to use makeup in their work.

Makeup began to change how theater was seen. The evolution of makeup was constantly changing, adapting to the conditions that it was presented. When stage lighting became a factor, the technology required for stage makeup to evolve beyond what it was. When makeup was used during medieval Europe, actors would have their faces painted all one color to show their emotions or portraying someone specific. The actor who play God often had a face of all white or gold. During the age of the Renaissance, actors became more resourceful and used items such as lamb’s wool to create beards on a beardless face. When stage lighting came, people could not use the simple one color method but needed something new. https://www.crunchbase.com/person/renee-welsch

From that point on, makeup became a multidimensional craft that took time to master. In the early years, when only candles and oil lamps were used to light a stage, actors could get away with crude makeup jobs done. However, as lighting advancements came along, actors would need those who could apply their makeup with more skill and artistry.

Makeup artistry soon became a profession in the world of theatrics. With the advancements of film, moving pictures, and lighting in theaters, so the artists advanced with their techniques. Straight makeup processes were created, schools taught classes on how to apply the makeup correctly, and students filled with passion for a new way to enter the theatrical world. Makeup was applied to the skin, eyes, and lips, anywhere where the skin was showing, makeup became a way to cover up flaws, or create flaws for a character.

Renee Welsch is a married theatrical artist living in Philadelphia, PA. Inspired by the history of how makeup in theaters came to be, Welsch aims to continue her profession with hope to make it big in Hollywood. Following in the steps of the former great makeup artists, Welsch watches movies solely for the sake of the details within the characters makeup. Renee Welsch knows that one day she will bring home an Academy Award for Best Makeup.

About: The history of makeup in theater made way for a new profession, one that Renee Welsch has as a theatrical makeup artist. For More Information Visit at https://www.behance.net/ReneeWelsch