Search Results: Stixx Matthews
There’s no way to discuss makeup or the beauty industry without mentioning the icon and legend Sir John.
The Harlem-born artist’s expertise extends far beyond just applying makeup. He is known for his innovative techniques, his ability to enhance natural beauty and his keen eye for color and texture. His work has graced the faces of numerous A-list celebrities such as Naomi Campbell, Beyoncé, Serena Williams, Priyanka Chopra and more. He has also been the key makeup artist in high-profile fashion shows and magazine covers—think: Tommy Hilfiger, Sergio Hudson, CR Fashion Book, and more— worldwide.
Sir John attributes his skill set and navigation through the industry to his thirst for creativity and zeal for knowledge. As a MAC makeup alumnus, and having worked with top makeup artists in the world like Pat McGrath and Charlotte Tilbury, he was determined to further cement his expertise in the field. The result? A cohesive and strong force in the makeup industry, respected both for his artistry and his professional growth.
In anticipation of Beautycon 2024, where you can expect to find Sir John, we had the privilege of sitting down with him for an exclusive interview. He dishes on what inspires him, what he’s most excited for during this year’s conference and more.
Read more ahead.
What are you most excited about for this year’s Beautycon?
SJ: I’m excited to be around the energy of beauty lovers and discuss the business of beauty. The space has seen the emergence of many great brands and I’m eager to learn from and be in the company of these innovators.
What advice do you have for turning your passion into a career?
SJ: It’s simple. Know you “why.” Working at MAC, with Pat McGrath, Charlotte Tilbury, Naomi CampbelI and Beyonce, I could’ve been blinded by the experience. But I knew my passion and my purpose. Most of all, I knew to find my lane and own it.
What does beauty mean to you?
SJ: Beauty to me means joy and pleasure. When your pasta comes out at the restaurant, buying a new pair of shoes, anything that brings you joy and excitement is what beauty is all about and that’s what it means to me.
What brands are you most excited about?
SJ: I’m more so excited about founders. Founders that are creating unique products that push our space forward. The founders that aren’t leaning towards what’s trending. These will be the brands that stand the test of time, gain access to funding and be able to build a scalable business that will be remembered.
What are your five desert island beauty products?
SJ: SUPERGOOP’s Unseen Sunscreen, Live Tinted SPF Stick, Andy Nail Clippers, Beauty Stat Vitamin C and Tequila. I think I’d be happy for a long time with all of these.
What innovations would you like to see within the beauty space?
SJ: I think a matte SPF would be great. No one wants to be oily and greasy. A matte one would be inclusive for those with oily skin and darker hues. Also, I’d like to see a system that works on hyperpigmentation in an inclusive and accessible way.
What made you choose the beauty industry?
SJ: The beauty industry chose me, babe. And that’s what I had to go with. Remember earlier what I said about knowing your “why” and owning your lane? Yeah, that comes from that.
Celebrity makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell has made a name for herself in the beauty industry with her signature approach. In other words, her artistry lies in her ability to accentuate and enhance the natural beauty of recognizable clients such as Alix Earle, Amanda Batula, Brooks Nader and Tayshia Adams.
But, it’s worth mentioning that Sewell’s impact extends beyond her celebrity clientele. Last year she founded Makeup By Kelli Anne, a comprehensive beauty platform designed to educate and empower makeup enthusiasts. Through in-depth tutorials and engaging discussions with female entrepreneurs, Sewell is democratizing beauty knowledge and fostering a community of confident, skilled makeup lovers. Her platform serves as a bridge between professional techniques and everyday application— making high-end beauty accessible to all.
In a significant career milestone, Sewell is set to take the stage as a guest teacher for her first time attending Beautycon 2024. This prestigious appointment underscores her growing influence in the beauty industry and provides a platform to share her expertise with a wider audience.
In anticipation of Beautycon 2024, we had the privilege of sitting down with Sewell for an exclusive interview. Below for her expectations for the upcoming event, sources of inspiration, her vision for the future of beauty, and more.
What are you most excited about for this year’s Beautycon?
Kelli Ann Sewell: This is my first time ever to go, attend and obviously guest teach so quite literally I’m excited for everything. It’s such an honor to be alongside industry professionals and other artists I’ve looked up to my entire life. So, I will be soaking up every second. I’m so excited to network with other creatives, meet so many fun people and mostly educate around beauty! It’s the best job in the world!
What advice do you have for turning your passion into a career?
KAS: I think using your passion as a way to create a career for yourself requires a lot of courage and confidence in yourself. But you have to separate yourself from what you do—which is the hardest part. You have to stay grounded and know your value. Also be willing to not take business decisions personally.
Your “business” needs to build on an undeniable and relentless belief in yourself and what you bring to the table, so it’s hard to separate your emotions out of the business at times. Sometimes your “success” is dependent on how your passions are received and judged by others and it feels personal because it is! Navigating that can be hard, but the reward far outweighs the challenges!
What does beauty mean to you?
KAS: Beauty makes me happy. Beauty is confidence. True energetic Beauty comes from within but we use mediums (hair styles, colors, makeup, etc) as a way to express what’s inside. That’s what makes it so valuable. Beauty gives us freedom to be who we are at our core.
What makeup tips do you have for someone looking to switch up their glam routine for the cooler months?
KAS: I think skin prep is everything but in general opting for richer, thicker, cream based products is a smart choice. Similar to how you will use a thicker, more hydrating face cream in the winter, maybe opt for a more hydrating tinted moisturizer, or a balmier cream bronzer, cream blush and more so your skin stays hydrated throughout the day! Especially if you walk outside some place in the northeast where the wind and temperature sucks all the hydration from your skin. And add lip masks!
What are your five desert island beauty products?
KAS: So tough. Probably L’Oreal Glotion, Natasha Denona Concealer, Patrick Ta’s “She’s Wanted,” blush, Dior Beauty’s Backstage Glow Face Palette, Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Freeze Gel, Makeup By Mario’s Ultra Suede Sculpting Lip Liner in “Almond,” and Summer Fridays Lip Balm. Sorry, that’s six!
What beauty trends are you forecasting will be big for 2025?
KAS: I think wearable, bold looks. Smokey eyes that aren’t perfect and are paired with fresh skin. Or a bold lip thats diffused and blurted mixed with other fresh complementary elements. We’re seeing people dissolving lip fillers, so I think more natural face shapes. Demi matte skin (moving away from glazed donut) but still experimental (saying goodbye to the clean girl.)
What is one product every beauty lover needs in their makeup caboodle?
KAS: The Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencils. They are so multifunctional. Use them on eyes, face, lips.
