Make-up provides the perfect outlet for me to express my true passion — art”. These are the sentiments expressed by Monique McLeod, a free-spirited and fun-loving individual who springs to life when in command of a brush.

Monique is a past student of the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts where she majored in graphic design, but dabbled in everything else — she sang, danced, and performed in many theatrical productions. It is there that her interest in make-up artistry grew, as she would often do her own make-up and that of others who were participating in the shows.

“It was not a difficult transition to make, as I had a strong background in art. Key elements such as blending and creating the proper tone came natural to me as a result.” This was all over a decade ago, and she has continued to hone her skills and master a craft that brings her much satisfaction.

Despite a lack of academic tutelage in the field, she does not think that she is in any way at a disadvantage. “In my opinion, practice is key. Doing make-up is something I have continued to improve on over the past 10 or so years, so I’m pretty confident in my abilities.”

Among her many projects throughout the years, standouts include doing make-up for personalities such as Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Miss Kitty (whose real name is Khadine Hylton), and being the official make-up artist for the Digicel road march team for Bacchanal (this being her second year in that capacity). Additionally, Monique has worked alongside a number of reputable make-up artists in the industry.

While artistry and creative expressions are her true passion, Monique also spends a lot of her time at the Digicel head office located on the waterfront, where she holds the position of marketing executive.

She recently visited teenAGE to give us a peek at some of the artistry she will be exploring for members of the Digicel road march team for Bacchanal 2014, as well as a look at what she would do for someone on a casual outing.

Models: Paula Wright (for carnival) and Petrona Laing (for the casual outing) (PHOTOS: NAPHTALI JUNIOR)