Today we’d like to introduce you to Fafi Serrate
Hi Fafi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up loving movies, theatre and art, and at a young age I quickly realized I was happiest when I was creating. As I got older, makeup became my creative outlet, but I didn’t think of it as anything more than a hobby. And then, 5 years ago, after a global pandemic got me laid off from my job and I had all the lockdown time in the world, I decided I would take my love for makeup and make it something. I attended The Vocational Academy of Makeup and Prosthetics (VAMP) where I learned everything I had always wanted to do, and things I didn’t even know I could. Getting an education in makeup artistry opened up so many doors for me, and now I am able to say that I have a successful career where I get to do the thing I love every day.
In the past few years I have accomplished things beyond my wildest dreams. After graduating from VAMP, I became part of the makeup team for the inaugural Howl-O-Scream at Sea World. I then spent a couple of seasons at Universal Studios doing makeup for Halloween Horror Nights, Grinchmas, Mardi Gras, parades, and other events. During all this, I’ve continued to freelance and work gigs all around Florida, and I have even won awards for makeup on short films I helped produce. Nowadays, I stay busy in the makeup lab getting ready to open a brand new and epic theme park.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I am very fortunate to be surrounded by incredibly supportive and loving people. My family and friends have always had my back, even when I’ve had my doubts. Because of the people I have surrounded myself with, my path has been unbelievably smooth. I have been able to achieve my goals because of the continued encouragement from those I look up to.
I’ve always said that an artist’s biggest enemy is themselves, and I’m not exempt from this. My biggest obstacle has and always will be my self-doubt, but I don’t let it win. I am proud of my accomplishments and I am proud of my work, so I know that doors will continue to open for me. The road will continue to pave itself in front of me as long as I keep looking forward.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in special effects makeup for film/tv, photography, and live entertainment. I create monsters, creatures, transformations, realistic injuries, and so many other cool practical effects. I am also involved in the beauty side of the makeup industry. I love a glam and I love an editorial look, so my style can be described as what some people would call “sexy scary”. My style is clean and pretty, but a little bit spooky. I love mixing styles and creating interesting and intriguing visual works of art.
I am proudest of my growth. I am proud of the skills I’ve developed and I am proud that I continue to refine them. I think that’s what sets me apart. I am always eager to continue learning and growing. I see opportunities and I take them. That’s who I am.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Take the chances. Pitch yourself to those you look up to. Make yourself be known. Make room for yourself everywhere you go. Surround yourself with those that want to build you up. Create emotional connections. Do good work. Be punctual. Be kind.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sfxfafi
Image Credits
Ann Duvoisin
Wayne Denny
