We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Briana Jones. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Briana below.

Briana, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Attributing my success to the greatest risk I’ve ever taken has opened the door to countless opportunities in my life. My journey began in a less-than-ideal work environment next to the Fox Theater, where I endured challenging conditions, including dripping condensation from unchanged AC unit filters and unwelcome visits from rats. Despite these hardships, I was determined to master the art of makeup and learn the intricacies of business during my long hours there.

One day, a man visiting the AT&T building across the street approached me as he was exiting the parking lot where I worked as a cashier. His curiosity about my life beyond the booth led to a pivotal conversation. When he learned of my passion for makeup, he challenged me by saying he’d be disappointed to find me still working there in 2 to 3 months. His words struck a chord, prompting me to resign within two weeks, fueled by the realization that even strangers could see my potential.

In the days leading up to my departure, I shared my future aspirations with a regular customer, who then connected me with a friend in need of a makeup artist. This connection quickly resulted in my first production job, setting the foundation for a career that has since been adorned with two Emmy Awards, and my work featured on billboards, in stores, across well-known magazines and companies, and in commercials.

I often reflect on the stranger’s words that day; they were the nudge I needed to fully believe in myself and pursue greatness. Though I never got the chance to thank him, his impact on my life is immeasurable. I am eternally grateful for that moment of encouragement, which propelled me from a booth next to the Fox Theater to the heights of the makeup artistry world.

Briana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My journey into Makeup Artistry is rooted in personal experiences and familial influence. As a child, I struggled with acne, which initially sparked my interest in makeup as a means to boost my confidence. This interest was further nurtured by my mother, a lifelong hairstylist, whose ability to transform and uplift her clients through her craft deeply inspired me. Observing her, I was drawn to the power of artistry in enhancing one’s self-esteem.

My first foray into makeup began with self-experimentation, coordinating my looks with my Chick-Fil-A uniform, which brought me immense joy. With time, my confidence grew, leading me to practice on my mother’s clients. This experience not only bolstered my self-assurance but also solidified my desire to pursue makeup artistry full-time.

However, my role extends beyond the surface. In my second Emmy acceptance speech, I emphasized that being a Makeup Artist is akin to being a therapist and spiritual guide. I often find myself being the first point of contact for individuals seeking comfort and a listening ear after long periods of stress. This aspect of my work has honed my listening skills and intuitive understanding.

My affinity for connecting on a deeper level with those I work with aligns with my astrological placements as a Scorpio with Leo rising, embodying the traits of a healer, spiritual guide, and a confidante for those unburdening their secrets. My practice is more than enhancing external beauty; it’s about fostering self-acceptance, validating the unique gifts of individuals, and uplifting spirits.

In essence, my approach to makeup artistry transcends the physical application of products. It’s about nurturing the inner beauty and strength of each person I encounter. This philosophy defines my artistry and my purpose as Briana Jones, both as a professional and a human being.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My current mission is to elevate my artistry into a realm that intertwines more closely with spirituality, reflecting my personal practices and beliefs. As a makeup artist, I encounter many individuals who struggle to recognize their inherent beauty, often overshadowed by personal traumas and societal pressures. My aim is to shift this narrative through the creation of wellness workshops and retreats focused on cultivating deep, internal love and acceptance.

The core of my philosophy is the understanding that we are born complete. Yet, societal standards and expectations have distanced us from recognizing our true essence, leading to a constant battle to connect with a profound sense of self-worth through external means. This journey often feels like a search for something elusive, a piece of ourselves we believe is missing.

However, my goal is to establish a sanctuary where individuals can discover that there is nothing to search for outside of themselves. The realization that one is already whole and that all the beauty and strength needed resides within is a powerful awakening I wish to facilitate. Through my work, I aspire to guide people back to their intrinsic wholeness, helping them see that the light they seek externally has been within them all along.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The boundless nature of creativity stands as the most rewarding aspect of being a creative for me. My career has not been confined to my achievements as a two-time Emmy Award-Winning Makeup Artist; it spans across various realms including healing, photography, culinary arts, bartending, resin artistry, modeling, influencing, creative direction, tarot reading, alchemy, and magic. The list is extensive, and the exploration is endless.

What excites me the most is the creative process itself, where the seemingly impossible becomes possible. I embody the belief that “I’m possible.” My paramount piece of advice to anyone on a creative path is to embrace the multitude of your interests. It’s perfectly acceptable to let go of pursuits that no longer align with your journey. The significance lies in the fact that at one point in time, they did serve a purpose in your life, and that in itself is invaluable.

Contact Info:

• Youtube: artofbrijones
• Other: TikTok: Artofbrijones