Hollywood makeup artist Kara Yoshimoto Bua is requested by actors such as Michelle Williams, Kirsten Dunst, Jessica Biel, Selma Blair, Megan Mullally, Rachel Weisz, Rosario Dawson, Emilie de Ravin, Hilary Swank, Mary Louise Parker, Maggie Q, Michelle Kwan, and Meg Ryan. Her work is seen regularly on covers and inside the pages of magazines such as Elle, Allure, InStyle, GQ, Esquire, Self, Interview, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, and Vogue.
Kara is an expert at blending beauty with philosophy. Her idea of beauty stems from a respect and love for people, art, and nature: “I enjoy this unique opportunity to connect with people. To me, interacting with my clients and being part of this creative process is a transformational experience. And most importantly, it’s fun.” Rosario Dawson says, “I love Kara! When she’s applying makeup, she’s like a little girl playing with paint. On photo shoots, I’ll be thinking what a long day it is, and then Kara will walk up without even saying anything and just spray some rosewater or apply some beautiful gloss and I’ll smile.”
Kara’s early experience as a salesperson behind the cosmetic counters and then freelancing for various cosmetic companies as an event makeup artist provided her with a broad base for understanding technique, products, the cosmetic industry, and how to relate to people so they are not intimidated to try new things. It was the most ideal makeup boot camp for her to learn about her craft. “It required me to be creative in all aspects, from applying the latest spring colors to working with women of all skin tones, face shapes, personalities and bringing out each woman’s unique overall beauty.” Kara began working with photographers on model test shoots, headshots, commercials, advertising and catalogs. There she learned about the differences of makeup application between real life and film. For over a decade, Kara has being working between Los Angeles and New York in the entertainment and fashion industries. Her main focus is her celebrity clientele for press tours, premieres, award shows, and print/editorial.
She believes that the role of makeup mostly is to enhance beauty, accentuating one’s natural features. Also, she enjoys using makeup as a way to help express someone’s personality. Kara takes her art to another level by seeing the face as a canvas and her cosmetics as a palette. She studies light, color, and personality, to create a moment in which their true self emerges. A true educator, Kara loves to share the wealth of knowledge that she has gained over her many years working as a makeup artist. Whether someone is seeking a quick color tip or a major transformation, Kara always offers a simple solution to any beauty need.