Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kata Baron. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kata , appreciate you joining us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

I juggled multiple jobs over the years—waitressing, I was a preschool teacher, and a Sephora salesman and makeup artist. Through these experiences, I realized I wanted to do things my own way, even if it meant taking the longer, more challenging path. Being in control of my art and creative vision ignited a passion in me. There were moments in the past 15 years when I wondered if a conventional job would be easier, but doing things on my terms has always been my priority. In 2022, I herniated two discs in my back, causing chronic sciatic pain that left me unable to work or even walk. It was a life-changing experience, especially as someone self-employed. I didn’t know if I’d ever be able to do makeup again and thought my career might be over. I faced a choice: trust myself and fight for my passion or surrender to my injury and settle for a desk job. I chose to bet on myself, even if it meant taking the harder road again. Despite the challenges, I wake up every day excited to work. That fire is still alive, and it reminds me of the Frank Sinatra song ‘My Way.’ Whenever I feel uncertain, I listen to it, and it reminds me why I chose the unconventional path. My favorite verse sums it up best: ‘Through it all, when there was doubt, I ate it up and spit it out. I faced it all and I stood tall, and did it my way!’

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.

Growing up I was surrounded by artists—my parents and grandparents— who encouraged me to combine my love for art and design, which led me to makeup. At the time, makeup artistry wasn’t as prominent as it is today, and choosing a career in makeup over a traditional degree was a big risk. In 2008, I decided to take that leap and attended the Make-Up Designory in California. I’ve continued to refine my skills through training at the Make-Up Forever Academy, MAC Cosmetics, and Sephora University. I’ve also had the privilege of learning from some of the best, including Mario Dedivanovic (Kim Kardashian’s MUA) , and assisting Sir John (Beyoncé’s MUA)

My goal is for people to see the range and versatility I bring as a makeup artist. I try to showcase everything from clean, natural beauty to bold, editorial styles, showing my ability to adapt to different projects—whether it’s red carpet events, magazine covers, music videos, or bridal work. I focus heavily on skin, making sure it always looks luminous, fresh, and radiant. My first priority is to enhance the natural beauty of my clients. Precision is also a key part of my artistry—details like eyeliner application, brow shaping, and lip definition are all signatures that define my style as a makeup artist. I love creating a balance between soft, romantic glam, perfect for weddings and commercial work, and edgier, high-fashion looks for editorial shoots.

I’ve had the opportunity to work with top artists, musicians, and major publications. I am currently based in both Albuquerque, NM and Los Angeles, CA which allows me to cater to diverse clientele, adapting to their needs whether they’re in a major entertainment hub or elsewhere. I aim to create a welcoming, engaging environment for my clients and followers by sharing behind-the-scenes content and videos, offering a personal and approachable side to my work.

Editorial work and storytelling are also at the core of my brand. I create looks that not only enhance the subject but align with the narrative being told. I thrive in high-pressure environments, whether it’s for magazine covers, music videos, or high-profile events, and I pride myself on being not only talented but reliable and adaptable. My brand is all about versatility, client trust, and storytelling.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

When I started my makeup career in 2008, there was no clear roadmap for success. I had to learn to navigate a lot of uncertainty—like not knowing when or where the next job would come from, figuring out how to negotiate fair rates, and managing invoicing and bookkeeping on my own. I just wanted to focus on my art, but I quickly realized that to succeed, I had to understand the business side too. Today, social media can make it seem like success happens overnight, but being a freelancer requires constant resilience. The industry is always changing, and there’s always something new to learn. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s to believe in myself and give myself grace through the process.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I owe my success to my parents, who unconditionally supported my dream of becoming an artist. Growing up, I saw so many of my peers pressured into college and degrees they had no passion for, simply because they lacked the support to follow their true interests. I struggled in school—I had a learning disability and even flunked a grade. Academics weren’t my strength, and it left me feeling isolated and insecure. But when I discovered makeup, it was the first time I felt powerful and purposeful, like I had found my true calling. My parents recognized that spark and did everything they could to help me pursue a career as a professional makeup artist.

I believe society needs to evolve beyond the idea that a degree is the only path to success. When we give people the space to dream and the tools to tap into their inner power, that’s when true success happens.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.katabaron.com/
• Instagram: @katamakeup

Image Credits

Elizabeth Wells
Les Baker
Brian Love
Heather Allen
Joyce Charat
Pat Martin