Meet Vadym Kravchenko | Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vadym Kravchenko and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vadym, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve always known I was a creative soul.
Ever since I was just three years old, I was obsessed with watching music videos on TV. I didn’t just enjoy the music — I was captivated by the way the artists looked, the styling, the visuals, the entire mood. I would notice every detail: the outfits, the makeup, the vibe. Even then, I was drawn to the world of fashion, beauty, and creative expression.

What truly sparked my imagination were transformation shows on TV — where an ordinary woman from a small town could be turned into a stunning, unrecognizable version of herself. All through the power of makeup, hair, and the right look. That felt like magic to me — and I knew I wanted to be part of that.

As I grew older, I explored art in many forms: I drew, sang in a church choir, studied guitar in music school, and danced. Creativity was always a natural part of my life. Looking back, I honestly believe I didn’t choose this path — it chose me.

I’m a makeup artist from Ukraine. It took me 27 years of trying different jobs and directions before I fully embraced what I was always meant to do. I trusted my intuition — and it never failed me. Now, I’m living and working in Los Angeles, surrounded by beauty, energy, and endless inspiration.

Today, I get to create beauty — and admire it, too. And that brings me real, deep joy.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m proud of having my own vision in makeup artistry and a good sense of taste. Sometimes, my colleagues ask for my advice on what’s best to use for makeup, and that shows they trust my opinion.

I’ve come a long way and worked with the best Ukrainian teams and professionals. I’ve worked on music videos with talented directors, including Tanya Muinho, who is now popular in Hollywood and works with global stars. This experience taught me that it’s important to be confident in yourself and not be afraid to express your ideas.

The main lesson is that if you put in the effort and believe in yourself, everything will work out. I’m living proof of that.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First, I’d take them to explore Los Angeles — starting with the classics like Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and Malibu. I have a soft spot for Manhattan Beach — it has that perfect laid-back, surfer-movie vibe. A road trip to Palm Springs and Joshua Tree is a must for the desert magic and iconic views. And to top it off, we’d hop on the panoramic train from LA to San Francisco — watching the coastline roll by is pure California dream.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m truly grateful to many people who believed in me and gave me opportunities along the way.
First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to the Ukrainian beauty, fashion, and production community. It’s within this creative space that I shaped myself as a professional, grew, and found my voice.
A special thanks goes to my mentors — those I assisted, who shared their knowledge, professional secrets, and opened new horizons for me in my work. Their support and trust were invaluable to me.
And of course, I’m thankful to myself — for my willpower, patience, and inner strength. There were moments when only this kept me going. I’m proud of how I continued to push forward, no matter what.

Instagram: vadymkrav4enko

Facebook: Vadim Kravchenko

Image Credits
Photography: Djeneba Aduayom @djeneba.aduayom
Model: @louriskin
Textile artist: Sohani Designs @sohanidesigns
Set Design: Alexa Polanco @apstudio.design
Lighting: Kurt Lavastida @kurt_lavastida
Photo Assist: Ahmad Smith @ahmad_k._smith
Makeup: Vadym Kravchenko @vadymkrav4enko
Hair: Jaime Diaz @jaime.creates