We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Crisanto jr Banuelos . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Crisanto jr below.
Crisanto jr , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?
I’m hoping to build a legacy of hope and inspiration for others. That no matter what life throws at you , the show must go on. I hope that when I’m gone , people will say : He never gave up . I hope people say nothing but nice things and how great I made them feel . I hope that they remember the amazing moments we had together & memories we shared . I want to be remembered for the shining star that I am . The one that’s was there ,for everyone when they needed me . The one that went above and beyond . The hardworking individual with the biggest drive and dreams . I hope they remember me for being so loving and caring. the person who inspired many and always did his best to help others . One of my fav idols , once said : I wanna be remembered Not only as an entertainer, but as a person who cared a lot, and I gave the best that I could,” SELENA QUINTANILLA
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Crisanto Bañuelos Jr know as @Jr._el_artist on instagram.
I just turned 34yrs old, had one of the best birthdays ever with family and friends . Huge thank you to Nena Estrada for a being an amazing friend and allowing me to have my MTV 2000s awards themed birthday at the best venue in Hollywood @Thepinkgarden_LA •
To those who haven’t met me yet or heard about me welcome. To those who have continuously supported me and my journey Thank you.
I am a creative with a lot of vision . Some would say Jack of all trades , but what can I say everything I’ve built has been a passion of mine since a very young age and I’ve worked hard for it .
I am a Makeup Artist , Hairstylist, photographer, creative director and Now officially a song writer .
I grew up very inspired by music , fashion . Soap operas & award shows . Altho at first , at a young age I was truly into magic & science. I grew up being the entertainer of the family always singing and dancing . I began at a young age singing in church choir as well , Around 5th grade . I also had a vision for fashion even though I didn’t know how to sketch or draw, But I tried my best to draw wardrobe , shoes and accessories and bring my visions to life . I also started to get into acting , being part of drama class ,plays and also even learned to play a few music instruments . When I began high school , I followed through with drama class , video production, photography and even being the high school dj. Which has all led me to where I am today in this industry.
After high school I went to cosmetology school which I didn’t finish due to health reasons .
Make up became a passion . I worked lots of retail, which upon all that I got a job at Sephora . all thanks to my boss Yuma and amazing friend Terrell who gave an opportunity, that helped elevate my skills and career . Shortly after I had become friends with many people in the industry and one of my best friends now KRISTINIA DEBARGE , I had met her shortly after her biggest tour with Britney Spears . with time she gave me an opportunity to work with her on set for a reality Tv show she was casted for . I began to work with models as-well . Different Tv shows . That’s where I began to build myself, networking and doing a bunch of collaborations at first with different opportunities: including working along side Michael Costello . Huge fashion designer to all the stars .
The list goes on, I even began to do background acting work . It was a dream of mine to begin acting , another outlet to help me network . I did a couple of shows like, SWAT ,NCIS, SHAMELESS and more . The pandemic affected furthering my acting career. As it also affected many others and their jobs . That didn’t stop me from creating content from home ,sharing beauty tips and creating looks for my supporters.
As much as you want everything to always be perfect , unfortunately that is not always the case . Along the way we face many challenges and problems , either life or situations that can occur in the work environment . One thing about me is, that I always do my best to go above and beyond for my clients . If they are running behind and or need me to go do something for them before call time , they know they can count on me . I do my best to solve any problems and ease their mind . It can all be very chaotic at times , but it’s part of the journey . Learning how to not take anything personal and just do your best. There’s moments where , time is very crunch and we only have a certain amount of time to do hair and make up in 30 mins or less . Sometimes you have to glam in the back seat of a moving vehicle . Sometimes emotions run high , but one thing I’ve learned is to keep calm . I think, that’s what sets me apart , being very patient and understanding in difficult moments . Besides being multi skilled and talented . I definitely go above and beyond for my clients and they know that .
I’m very proud of my growth in this journey of mines , thankful for all the amazing people in my life and clients who make it possible . I recently became a song writer, thanks to one of my artist and friend AUTUMN CORIN, who believes in me and in my work . We met through her manager Dimitri Hurt whom I’ve worked with in the past on some projects . Definitely a blessing working with such a talented artist who has given me the opportunity to work with her on mostly all her projects . I am her Makeup artist / Hairstylist etc. I always help her with wardrobe for any shoots or music videos . Even so , we have done a few shoots ourselves and now , Has allowed me to co.write on one of her songs called “FLY” For her summer EP . This is only the beginning and can’t wait for more . Another proud moment this year was also being able to glam my girl “J. Rey Soul” from the “BLACK EYED PEAS” Before A “VOGUE” Magazine Interview , I couldn’t be more grateful for the amazing opportunity to be part of her interview with vogue Philippines.
I was able to photograph her that night as-well before her LAS VEGAS SHOW . Although my photos didn’t make it to vogue , my Beauty tips did . My photos ended up being used for “NYLON Magazine “ which still made me happy , and of course any opportunity she brings me along with . Love ya J. Rey . Lastly I recently wrapped up FASHION WEEK IN LA , thanks to the lovely, yet humble young Millionaire and Fashion Desginer “ISABELLA BARRETT” and her amazing momager Susan for giving me an opportunity to finally work with them and her team . So much things in the works and I’m so thankful and grateful for it all .
I want all my supporters and co.creative friends to know , to never give up . keep chasing those dreams. Work hard for what you want and believe in . Have discipline and ambition to win . It’s all a process and a journey . Take advantage of the freedom and time we have , Because when it’s all gone it’s gone but ; The legacy continues . There’s so much more in the works but can’t give it to you all at once . Stay tuned and thank you for all the love and support .
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
It’s been quite a journey , But I definitely would have to say that “Discipline” has definitely built my reputation. I am a very well respected individual in this industry and amongst my clients . I don’t think I’d be where I am today , and where god is taking me if I didn’t have a good reputation. There’s been times and even recent, where certain situations don’t go as planned . I let it go and move on from what I can’t control . We all know how this industry is or can be . Good discipline will keep your reputation going and save you every time. Do good and do your best even when others don’t . Like I always say : god sees it all . Also an important key factor when building your reputation in this market is , providing quality work and services . You definitely must have a passion for what you do and love. Not just for dollars signs .
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @jr._el_artist
Image Credits
I own all photos