In the world of Hollywood makeup artistry, Keita Moore stands as a beacon of talent, having etched his name among the industry’s elite. From dazzling stars like Kelly Rowland to iconic figures like Iman, Keita’s artistry has graced red carpets, concerts, and intimate gatherings alike.
As we delve into his journey, we unravel the tales of hard work, dedication, and an unyielding passion for inclusivity in the ever-evolving beauty landscape.
A Hustler’s Odyssey
Keita Moore’s artistic odyssey commenced not under the glamourous lights but in the humble realms of Rochester, New York. An art student turned makeup maestro, Keita’s journey took an unexpected turn when he filled in for a no-show makeup artist at a local fashion show.
Little did he know that this would be the catalyst for a career that would soon catapult him into the spotlight. As he honed his skills at MAC Cosmetics and navigated the club scene with Love and Hip Hop stars, his dedication began drawing attention beyond the New York City skyline.
From Club Appearances to A-List Glamour
The road to success wasn’t a swift ride for Keita. Enduring eight years of back-and-forth travels from Rochester to New York City, he solidified his name by working with the Real Housewives of Atlanta stars and contributing to three of Fantasia Barrino’s tours.
Campaigns for Anastasia Beverly Hills and collaborations with Covergirl, featuring the likes of Issa Rae and Ayesha Curry, showcased his growing influence in the beauty industry. Keita reminisces about the surreal moment he first saw his work illuminated in Times Square, a testament to his journey from humble beginnings to glittering billboards.
A Starstruck Professional
Rubbing shoulders with celebrities like Kelly Rowland and Mariah Carey might make anyone starstruck, but Keita Moore maintains a poised and professional demeanor. Admitting to being a massive Destiny’s Child fan, he notes, “I don’t walk into that room a fan, even though I am. I’m excited to be here, but I think celebrities just want normal people.”
His encounters with idols like Mariah Carey are not just fangirl moments; they are opportunities to deliver his very best work, acknowledging the footsteps of iconic makeup artists who preceded him.
Lessons from Icons
In the realm of makeup, learning is an ongoing journey, and for Keita, it involves imbibing wisdom from industry icons. His enduring relationship with supermodel Iman provided not only moments of creative collaboration but also invaluable lessons.
Iman’s insights, like the importance of adjusting lash size based on camera distance, equipped Keita with a nuanced understanding of the craft. This knowledge, gained through experience, adds an extra layer to his expertise during photoshoots, where lighting and angles play a pivotal role.
The Roots of Inspiration
For Keita, the roots of his inspiration lie close to home. Raised by a Mary Kay makeup artist, his mother, he fondly recalls, “She showed me how to put makeup on, how it can change your spirit and mood.” His deep connection with the Black community and a profound understanding of Black beauty have shaped his approach. As he asserts, “I’ve learned on Black women. That’s where a lot of the magic happens. I’m a Black male, and I believe they trust you a lot.”
Shaping an Inclusive Industry
Keita’s 12-year journey unfolds against the backdrop of a transforming beauty industry, one that is gradually embracing inclusivity. Reflecting on this evolution, he acknowledges pioneers like Pat McGrath and Sam Fine, whose trailblazing efforts paved the way.
The industry’s seismic shift towards diversity gained momentum with Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty, yet Keita emphasizes that brands like Mac Cosmetics and Covergirl were laying the groundwork long before. He lauds the progress but advocates for genuine representation, urging for more Black voices not just in front of the camera but also in positions of influence behind the scenes.
Nurturing Talent and Representation
As more opportunities open up in the fashion industry, Keita expresses excitement about seeing more Black individuals on set. However, his aspirations extend beyond visibility; he envisions a future where Black creatives, trans individuals, and those who have fought for liberation take on key roles in production and decision-making.
The Black Beauty Roster, a collective amplifying the work of Black beauty artists, exemplifies the positive momentum, and Keita’s involvement in events like Culture Con signals a shift toward broader recognition and appreciation.
Keita Moore’s narrative transcends the confines of a makeup artist’s portfolio. It is a story of perseverance, a celebration of diverse beauty, and a call for genuine inclusivity in an industry undergoing a profound metamorphosis. As he continues to leave his indelible mark on the world of beauty, Keita remains a testament to the transformative power of artistry and the importance of embracing every shade of beauty in the tapestry of our lives.