Meet Northern Ireland's first-ever contestant on BBC Three’s Glow Up
Craig is killing it on the current series 🎉
Last updated 27th Apr 2021
Craig Hamilton, 24-years-old, is the first contestant from Northern Ireland to feature on the award-winning programme Glow Up, now in its third series.
Growing up Craig always had a creative streak and eye for detail. He attended the Southern Regional College (SRC) in Newry, where he developed his passion for art.
“I always had a huge interest in the bright, bold and colourful side of things. In 2014 I chose to study for a diploma in art and design with SRC, that’s when I feel in love with the world of make-up artistry and special effects. I find it so freeing and liberating, I knew back then that this was going to be my career.”
To flourish in such a challenging and competitive field, Craig knew he needed to study hard and develop his creative skillset.
“Whilst studying art in Newry, I also enrolled in a number of short courses at SRC and Ciara Daly’s School of Makeup. From there, I secured a place on the three-year BA Hair, Make-up and Prosthetics course in London’s College of Fashion.”
“I have gained so much knowledge, understanding and expertise whilst studying make-up professionally at university. However, I feel like you pick up the most skills whilst working in industry.”
“When you work first-hand on a wide range of diverse skin tones and textures, your skills using different shades and products grow too. There’s some things that can’t be taught from a textbook.”
Now in its third series, the hit BBC show Glow Up welcomed new host Maya Jama, who recently replaced the competition’s former presenter Stacey Dooley.
“I have always been a huge fan of the show since season one and I actually applied for the second season, but unfortunately that was not my time.”
“I just love how the show portrays the world of make-up from several aspects, not just beauty. This really lets the audience have a glimpse into a somewhat hidden and ‘behind-the-scenes’ industry. Whether it’s beauty, creative, editorial or film/tv, its packed with it all.”
“For any make-up artist, this show gives you such a platform to showcase your artistry to the world, the fact it’s also judged by two of the biggest names in the industry is incredible.”
Each week contestants create exciting campaigns, under the watchful eye of judges Val Garland and Dominic Skinner. Val Garland has over 25 years-worth of experience in the make-up industry and works as the global make up director for L'Oréal Paris. Dominic Skinner is the global senior artist for long-established make-up brand MAC.
To be selected for this show is HUGE! And to keep it a secret for so long, must have been torture.
“Anyone who knows me, knows I’m an open book. But I knew how much this opportunity meant, when I got the call to say I made it, I was actually in work hiding in the staff room, screaming into my locker with excitement.”
“I rang my mum and dad straight away; they knew I had applied so I had to let them know. They couldn’t have been more excited for me, they’re so proud.”
The show is celebrated for its inclusivity and creativity, so to have someone represent Northern Ireland is fantastic.
“The response from the first episode was surreal, I was overwhelmed with so much love and support. I had comments from all over world and so many people from Northern Ireland cheering me on. I didn’t realise how big of impact it would be until it was released.”
"The first episode was a complete whirlwind for me, it did take me a minute to find my feet which was probably the reason I ended up in red chair. I played it safe during the challenge, I was shaking the entire time.”
For any budding MUA’s out there, Craig has some helpful hints and tips for success.
“My best advice is to try not to compare yourself to others and find inspiration in things that aren’t make up. Fashion, art and nature are inspiring for me. This industry is full of make-up artists, but there is room for us all. Stay true to yourself and explore all sides of make-up artistry.”
Well, we can’t wait to see how Craig gets on in the rest of the series. Episode 2 continues this evening from 7pm on BBC iPlayer.
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