We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful John-Mic’Kal. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with John-Mic’Kal below.

Hi John-Mic’Kal, thanks for joining us today. We’ve love to hear an interesting investment story – what was one of the best or worst investments you’ve made? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

I always like to tell the future artist to invest in two things. Invest in practicing patience and believing in yourself. When I first started my journey I did what most beginner artists do watch Youtube. I watched so many videos and at the time one brand kept popping up and everyone was raving about it. It was MAC Cosmetics, and I was determined to get a job there. Every chance I wasn’t in class. I would go to the MAC counter at Belk and sit there to talk to the artist. I was so intrigued by the world of beauty I would just sit there all day. After showing my face so much the manager at that location took an interest in me and took me under her wing. Even though I was willing to do anything to be a great artist, to be honest to no surprise I wasn’t the best. After a few months and a few discouraging interviews. I thought I would never get hired and even cried a few times in my car. Overall I never gave up and I kept working on not only my artistry but my mindset. This helped me secure a job at MAC and the five years of experience I gained it help propel me to another level. Overall I’ve had to master the mindset of knowing that regardless of what happens I’m going to be an amazing artist. Being a makeup artist takes true patience. Things will not always go as planned and as a freelance artist that can be beyond stressful. But you must believe in your product, service, and yourself. I have come to learn that having this peaceful state of mind is the only way to survive and maintain in this industry.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I John-Mic’Kal am a makeup artist and creative, based in Atlanta GA. Specializing in creative and full glam. I’m driven by a passion to offer effortless beauty to fit each client. I believe that everyone’s beauty has a place, and I’m determined to provide an innovative solution to every need. Born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina. I started my journey in the beauty industry in 2016 after working as an assistant on photoshoots while attending the Art Institute of Charleston. After graduating with BA in Marketing in 2020 I dedicated myself to makeup full-time. While working in the industry I’ve had the pleasure to work with many companies, and on various projects. I believe in truly catering to every client and that tailoring my services to fit their needs is what sets me aside from others. I’m always preparing myself and my kit to be ready to help a client in any way. I believe that that’s the only way to stand above the rest.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

The biggest lesson I learned was not buying everything just because others have it . When I started my career I went crazy buying so many unnecessary items thinking that I needed them to be a great artist. Working with less will make a better artist because you will learn how to do without and teach you how to use other products in different ways so you won’t need to buy some things.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Honestly helping others visions come to life. I love being given the opportunity to collaborate on a team and create magic. I also enjoying watching the finish product. Seeing your clients get excited and be proud of your hard work is very rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.itsjohnmickal.com
• Instagram: @itsjohnmickal
• Other: www.itjohnmickal.as.me booking site

Image Credits
Shot by Marquise Eppinger Instagram @eppsshotme