Meet Martha Phelan: Film/Television, Editorial Makeup Artist

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

Hi Martha, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking was foreign to me in the past. I became accustomed to playing it safe in every decision I made in my life. Then I came realize that following my dreams to be a Makeup Artist would require leaving my comfort zone. I was extremely afraid of just leaving my small community of family and friends to move to a large city of millions. It was not only socially frightening but culturally shocking. Taking the risk of failure is always a factor. But the way I saw it, failing was never an option for me. The return on my investment of sacrifice and risk taking led me to great rewards and new experiences in the Film and Television industry.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Growing up on a Indian Reservation I had a very culturally traditional upbringing. I was immersed into the creative world of Powwow song and dance. Taking in the creative beauty of my culture I’m able to utilize the tools and apply it to my craft as a Makeup Artist. I am most proud of is just having the opportunity to work with creative talented actors and crew members. And having the honor of working with some of Hollywood’s greatest makeup artists. I got to where I am today was not easy. I did work hard and I assisted a lot of great artists. You have to really pay your dues. I take each makeup gig with upmost importance and passion. I’ve learned with hard work and sacrifice anything is possible. I want people to know it’s ok to step out of your shell. Dreams come true if you push yourself. I want to share that I’m just a small town girl with big dreams. Creatively sharing my craft as a Native American Makeup Artist in Hollywood.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite book to follow and read are the Secret Stairs. This book maps out all the old staircases of Los Angeles. Dating back to when street cars were the main source of transportation and automobiles weren’t as common. I was able to see many breathtaking views. I also love to eat at Beverly Hills Market. They have a fantastic breakfast as well as lunch menu. My favorite thing to do is order and go to the rooftop where it has breathtaking views. If you are ever there, order the breakfast special it is under $6.00 you will thank me later. I would definitely take my friends to the hidden beach in San Pedro. The marine life is very active and the sunsets are amazingly beautiful. The Hollywood sign and Bronson park are a must see. If you decide to take this hike you will see the first Bat Cave that was used for Adam West’s 1960s Batman Series.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
MHA Nation, April Garcia, Leibi Carias, Breann Weist, Leesa Simone, Laurie Hallak, Sven Grandlund.

Website: www.marthaphelan.com

Instagram: MarthaPhelan.mua

Facebook: Martha Jade Phelan MUA

Image Credits
Tru Hale Photography, Collin Hale, Revalproduction, Jocy Bird, Jayli Fimbres, Lauren Good Day Fashion, Tatiana Neva