Nikki Carmela is a professional makeup artist with over 12 years of experience, known for her ability to seamlessly blend artistry, technique, and passion. Starting in musical theater, she transitioned into the film industry, quickly gaining recognition for her eye-catching, transformative makeup looks. Her diverse portfolio spans feature films, music videos, commercials, fashion campaigns, album covers, and live shows, where she has the opportunity to work on a wide variety of projects, each requiring a unique and creative approach.
Special Effects Makeup is at the core of Nikki’s expertise. With a focus on creature and character creation, realistic trauma makeups, blood rigs, and gore, she is known for her ability to create powerful and visually striking effects that captivate audiences. As a Department Head of Special Effects Makeup, Nikki thrives on collaborating with directors and production teams, consistently pushing creative boundaries to bring fantastical visions to life. Her passion for intricate, detailed SFX work ensures that each project is crafted with precision, challenging the limits of conventional storytelling and leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
In the realm of beauty and high-fashion makeup, Nikki excels in both classic and cutting-edge styles. Whether it’s perfecting complexion, designing bold graphic liner, or creating avant-garde glamour, she brings innovation to every look. Her work is defined by versatility, from the natural elegance of men’s grooming to the breathtaking creativity of high-fashion runway looks. Nikki’s approach blends beauty with artistry, offering clients looks that feel fresh, powerful, and transformative.
As a beauty educator, Nikki is passionate about sharing her knowledge and empowering others to pursue their own artistic paths. She offers one-on-one sessions, group lessons, and masterclasses, teaching aspiring makeup artists the skills, techniques, and creative approaches needed to succeed in the beauty industry. With a focus on both the technical and artistic aspects of makeup, Nikki’s educational style encourages growth and exploration, ensuring her students leave with both confidence and a refined skill set.
Beyond her work as a makeup artist, Nikki is also a creative director, photographer and poet, using these mediums to explore and express her creative vision in new and exciting ways. Her diverse artistic background allows her to approach each project with a unique perspective, blending visual storytelling with an authentic and heartfelt approach. Utilizing synesthesia as her superpower, Nikki experiences art in a way that enhances her work, allowing her to connect deeply with color, texture, and form in ways that elevate her creations. This multi-sensory experience informs every project she touches, whether on set, in the classroom, or in her personal work.
Nikki is the perfect addition to any set or creative team, bringing not only technical expertise but also an infectious energy and passion for pushing artistic boundaries.