Meet Eline Van Den Storme | Special Effects / Fashion Make-up Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Eline Van Den Storme and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eline, why did you pursue a creative career?
Since childhood, I have always been captivated by cinema and the art of storytelling through images. I have always felt a deep need to express myself creatively, and I quickly realized that conventional careers were not for me. The idea of creating something false that appears real is fascinating to me. This ability to make the imaginary tangible is what drives me every day in my work.

My interest in makeup, particularly special effects, emerged as a true vocation. I was fortunate enough to participate in a shoot where I replaced the head makeup artist. I was asked to create hailstone impacts on a bald man’s head, and I only had 15 minutes to do it. The satisfaction I felt when the director found my work incredible was a turning point. At that moment, I knew it was the sensation I wanted to feel for the rest of my life.

For me, a creative career is not just a job; it is a way to transform ideas into reality and inspire others to experience deep emotions. Each project is an opportunity to learn and improve, and I constantly seek ways to enhance the realism of my creations. It is this commitment to art and imagination that motivates me and makes my creative career an exciting and fulfilling adventure.

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.
What sets me apart from others is my deep passion for cinema and my unique approach to creating special effects. I strive to bring the imaginary to life in a way that feels authentic. I’m most proud of my ability to blend creativity with technical skills, constantly pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve in my work. My journey began with my studies in France, where I earned my diploma in makeup artistry, focusing on special effects. This foundation sparked my interest in exploring the intricate details that make my creations believable.

Getting to where I am today has not been easy. I’ve faced numerous challenges, including moments of self-doubt and the pressure to continually improve. To overcome these obstacles, I’ve learned to embrace my passion and stay committed to my goals. Each setback has taught me the importance of resilience and the value of perseverance. I’ve also learned to seek inspiration from others and to view challenges as opportunities for growth.

Along the way, I’ve discovered that every project is a chance to learn and evolve as an artist. I want the world to know that my story is about the journey of a dedicated artist who is continually striving to enhance her craft. I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions and to remind them that challenges can be stepping stones to success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend, who is also a makeup artist, were to visit Los Angeles, I would take her to some of my favorite spots. We would start with breakfast at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker, where we could enjoy some delicious dishes. Then, we would head to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre to explore iconic film locations.

For lunch, I would take her to The Grove for shopping and to soak in the atmosphere. In the afternoon, we would visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art to get inspired by the artworks. Then, we could stop by Nigel Beauty Emporium to pick up some makeup products. To end the day, we would go roller skating at Moonlight Rollerway Inc., a fun spot where we could relax and have a great time together. It would be a wonderful way to share our passion for makeup while discovering the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My entire journey is a testament to the unwavering support and encouragement I’ve received from my parents. They have always believed in me, especially during times when I struggled with self-confidence. Their emotional support has been invaluable, and they’ve done everything possible to help me succeed. Today, it’s my responsibility to make them proud, and their influence continues to motivate me every day.

Another significant aspect of my story is the impact of my mentor, Don Lanning. As an exceptionally talented sculptor and teacher, Don has instilled in me a deep love for sculpture and has shown me that I am capable of achieving my dreams. His guidance has given me hope and the belief that I can excel in my craft.

Both my parents and my mentor have played crucial roles in shaping who I am today. Their encouragement and belief in my abilities have been instrumental in my journey as a special effects makeup artist. I hope that can inspire others to pursue their passions and recognize the importance of support from those around them.

Instagram: @elsworkpro

Linkedin: https://LinkedIn.com/in/elsworkpro

Facebook: El’s Work

Image Credits
@aurelienbuttin
@disneylandparis
@marvel
@don_lanning