David Lenhardt, make-up & illustration artist

‘I was born and raised in Paris. The plan was to study art, but my path was a little different and very rewarding in the end. I had to start working at quite a young age. Nonetheless I always kept browsing art books my mom gave me, exploring anime characters, drawing, and dreaming. That artistic streak didn’t escape me and later on I had a revelation when I met a bunch of drag queens. I engulfed myself in this scene which taught me so much in terms of theatrical make-up and the lyrical act of transformation. In my twenties I started assisting at beauty shoots and I met the great make-up artist Karim Rahman, who became my mentor. All of this has shaped my aesthetic. What I nowadays often hear from people on set is that they’re inspired by my “twisted mind”; it makes them wonder and question the world around them. I love that. My work is both dreamy and dramatic. Colorful, very detailed, moody and inventive – that’s how I’d sum up my signature style. I’m inspired by the angles, shapes, and light, of course the light, in nature, by exhibitions – big and small – and moving from 2d to 3d. Always being receptive and curious, thinking quick on my feet, and mastering my art through trial and error keep me going.’