Mindy Shear relishes the ambience of Westmount Square

By Elaine Cohen (Business and Supplements Co-ordinator)

Make-up artist Mindy Shear, who has been applying makeup professionally since her teens, takes pride in her Make-up Studio she acquired recently at 1 Westmount Square. The multitalented artist, who also holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, provides makeup tips, applies makeup, does makeovers and sells Mindy Shear products. She recently did the makeup for fashion shows at Dawson College and Herzliah High School. As well, she designs original ketubahs and Judaica through her company Shear art, and conducts portable ceramic art parties, holds beauty bars, and arranges spa and make-up packages. Beauty bars are social gatherings for women only. Participants glean make-up tips and shop for products, while sampling finger foods and sipping cocktails.

“My academic background comes into play when I’m doing makeup,” says Shear, who refers to herself as a colourist. “I can look at someone and tell instantly what shades will suit them, and that’s very important in applying makeup. When it comes to making up someone’s face, it’s like painting a canvas.”

Shear is not impressed by vanity; she wants her clients to walk out looking great but feeling equally good about themselves. Shear, who has used upscale products during her years working here and in Israel, now uses her own products and says they give her clients an excellent value for their money.

“The makeup is a pleasure to apply,” she says. “It feels fresh and the texture is amazing. Mindy Shear keeps up with trends in the field and so we’re always to the latest and best products.” This is the year of happy colours, she says. “After sept.11, everyone was feeling down and so even in makeup, people are trying to overcome this loss. We’re seeing vibrant reds, pinks and corals.”

She advises brides, especially those who have oily skin, to bring a compact of pressed powder to the wedding. Brides should pick their lipstick before the wedding day and be sure to have it on hand. Women should use lipliner daily to shape the lips and keep lipstick from running.,

“Outlining lips with one colour and filling in with another shade are out,” says Shear. “Lip gloss is in. It’s beautiful for spring. Either wear it alone or add it to lipstick.”

Blush is also important. Using professional techniques, Shear applies blush to suit the shape of the face and to contour and highlight features. With regard to eyes, purples have replaced browns in eye shadow and turquoise is in.

“Using the right techniques and products, we know how to contour the face and keep makeup intact,” Shear says, noting she has two other experienced makeup experts on staff.

“Clients enjoy our personalized service,” she says, adding that she plans to initiate a novel birthday makeup concept. Birthday celebrants will be invited for a free makeover.