Interview With Lime Crime Makeup

by Cary

In addition to being Makeup Artist of Lime Crime Makeup, Xenia is a Model, Musician and Online Publisher. Wow!

How did you get interested in makeup and become a makeup artist?

I was into girly things like makeup pretty early on. I was attracted to what it signified - femininity, confidence - and insisted on wearing it whenever I got a chance. My first exposure to real makeup was at a high school prom. I was a tomboy then, and a friend of my mother's who happened to be a professional makeup artist, offered to do my makeup. Because I am a redhead and have light lashes/eyebrows naturally, the difference was tremendous! For the first time in my life, I didn't feel like a dork!

I didn't get into makeup artistry until I was in my early 20s. Like many girls, I feared makeup and the few attempts I'd had to apply it all ended in a disaster. I remember getting ready for a fancy party once - I knew would be a lots of foxy women there, so I wanted to look foxy too. I bought some cheap drugstore makeup and spent half an hour smearing it all over my face. Let's just say, I ended up going out in mascara and chapstick that night again. But something switched in me; I made a decision to get better at makeup, no matter what it took.

I posted my first makeup tutorial in 2004. I still remember: a gothy smoky eye in black and red! Back then, nobody was doing tutorials so mine were a hit. It all took off from there, and what do you know? Now I have my own makeup line! :)

Do you have a formal arts background?

Technically, I am a musician (piano/composition) but I also took some Fashion Design courses. My favorite was Fashion Illustration - I was always good at drawing, so it came naturally to me. Other than that, no arts background. I didn't go to a cosmetology school, and neither did most artists I admire.

What occasions do people use your makeup services for?

At the moment, Lime Crime Makeup is my main focus. But in the past, I have done makeup for runways and photoshoots. On several occasions, I've made people up for parties and events. I love it all, but my favorite type is editorial. I love working with a photographer.

Do you find that your modeling work and make up artistry influence each other?

Not usually, but it's happened. Sometimes an idea for a photoshoot comes from a very crazy makeup. Most of the time, however, makeup is a complementary tool. I believe that strong makeup is the key to strong images.

What are your favorite types of outfits to model in?

I like bright colors and unusual shoes (the brighter, the better!). I adore textured and colored tights & socks and will usually use a pair in each shoot. I also have a soft spot for and collect top hats! I want one in hot pink...

What are your least favorites?

Jeans. On or off-camera. Also, anything anti-climactic and bland. But I style my own outfits most of the time, so I get to wear exactly what I want!

Are there any other creative mediums you work in?

I started out as a musician. My 80s revivalist disco-pop project, Doe Deere, dropped in the spring. I have an EP out called Supernatural. At the moment, the project took as back seat as I am focusing on the makeup line and my blog - Doe Deere Blogazine. It's a combination of a magazine and a blog for estrogen junkies!!! :)

How did you become interested in fetish/BDSM?

I discovered my first fetish (long hair on a man - nothing too shocking) when I was about 15. At the time, I didn't know it was called a 'fetish'. Most people I knew didn't have as much as a preference for what they liked in a prospective mate. I was surprised to find I had such specific tastes.

I delved deeper into fetish in my 20s, discovering that almost anything can be fetishized. But it's how a fetish comes about that fascinated me the most. I believe that a fetish tells a story about a person.

Do you enjoy fetishism/BDSM play in your personal life, and if so what are you into?

Role playing, uniforms, Lolita. Anything visual and/or psychological is good. On the whole, thoughts of fetish occupy a very large part of my brain; I am always eager to discuss it with others.

Do you think pinup and fetish are becoming part of the mainstream culture?

Not mainstream, but definitely more accepted. Does anyone even consider pinup naughty any more? On one hand, it's a sign of social liberalization; on the other, we're losing the power to shock the masses. It's all nature's course though.

What kind of music do you like?

Mostly 80s, 90s and modern pop/rock/electro. I enjoy industrial as much as I enjoy Britney Spears

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What do you like to do for fun?

Broadway theater - musicals, plays. I saw Equus recently; very dark, twisted story. Seeing Harry Potter naked was brilliant - I almost yelled, "Harry! Where are your glasses??" from my seat. Haha.

Also - not sure if this counts as a fun activity - I do charity and pet rescue. I have 2 Persian cats whom I love to death, so I try to help out other less fortunate animals. Recession is hurting animal shelters; they need all the help they can get right now, so donate to your nearest no-kill shelter!

See more of Lime Crime at:

http://www.limecrimemakeup.com

http://www.doedeereblogazine.com

See more of Lime Crime Make Up at:

http://www.limecrimemakeup.com

http://www.doedeereblogazine.com