In the world of makeup artistry, few stand out like Meg McConville (@moochimade), a visionary whose palette draws from the realms of books, fashion, and intricate patterns of insects and sea creatures.

To accompany THIS out of this world look created with muse Elara in mind (styled by Daisy Nicholls, photographed by Simone Taylor), Meg shares insights on staying inspired in a fast-evolving industry and the importance of passion and perseverance for aspiring artists. With a dream collaboration list featuring icons like Serge Lutens and Vivienne Westwood, and a spirit animal as cunning as a fox, Meg is set to leave an indelible mark on the industry. Get ready to explore the vivid, love-infused world of a makeup artist who sees beyond the surface, blending light, color, and emotion into every stroke.

Outside of your art form, where do you find inspiration?

Books, fashion, faces, lighting, tattoos, insects and sea creatures.

Can you share a bit about your background and how you ventured into the makeup industry?

I think I’ve always wanted to do makeup. My first memory is having the video of the making of the thriler film clip. I watched it on repeat and couldn’t get over the makeup and prosthetics. I’ve done quite a bit of study to get here though, beauty therapy, screen and media makeup then sfx/ prosthetics but social settings/ previously working at a club has definitely played a big role.

The makeup industry is constantly evolving. How do you stay inspired and keep up with the latest trends and techniques?

I don’t have TikTok so maybe not staying up with the latest trends but I do follow a lot of incredible makeup artists on instagram. There’s definitely cons to social media but I it keeps me really inspired. I also love learning so I usually take that inspiration further with studying or online courses, for example I did an sfx course last year because I’m seeing that come through the fashion industry in a huge way.

What advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists who are interested in pursuing a career in special effects makeup?

I think in any creative field it's to really love what you do and keep at it. Especially when you’re first starting out it might not be the most stable job but if you have the love for it and push yourself it’s really rewarding and good for the soul.

Can you share a behind-the-scenes moment from one of your projects that left a lasting impression on you?

The energy after the Wackie Ju runway last year will stay with me forever. So many emotions filled the room but there was just such a strong feeling of love.

What do you hope to achieve with your work as a makeup artist, and what legacy do you hope to leave in the industry?

This is a scary question. I feel like I’m a bit of a silent achiever so I keep my goals to myself but there’s a lot I'd like to achieve and I don’t see myself stopping until they’re done. Hopefully that will create the legacy.

Where do you think you get your personal power from?

The same place my insecurity’s stem from, the need to prove them wrong.

What is your favourite space?

My studio

Is there something you learnt early in your career that you have now disproven?

That people treat makeup artists like shit. Teachers would say how badly clients/ actors/ models treat makeup artists but so far I've found that to be the complete opposite. I mean we make you look hot, so I wouldn’t be messing with us.

Within your immediate circle of friends and family or chosen family who is your hero and why?

All of them!! I’m surrounded by the best, all hero’s in their own way.

What is your favourite colour?

Greige and taupe.. at the moment

What is the best kind of light?

I like the different coloured artificial lights around the city at night hitting peoples faces

What do you think your eye pays most attention to?

When I’m doing makeup.. everything. I want the makeup to fit to the canvas and emphasize their features so I definitely scan to work out what will work best. I’m sure anyone who’s makeup I’ve done knows my face when I’m analyzing, haha.

What role does love play in your work?

All of it, I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t love it.

RAPID Q&A

Who is on your dream collaboration list?

Serge Lutens, Vivienne Westwood, Grace Jones

Are there any creatives you'd like to platform right now?

I’m honestly so lucky to be surrounded by so many talented creatives who inspire me everyday. There’s so many I’d like to mention but I’ll shout out two of my long term besties @flosskees and @fridgespace_ . I love these two and their work is definitely to be watched. Also @lovelulumakeup she’s assisted me so many times and always nails it, plus she makes incredible jewellery.

If you could grant a wish for someone, who and what would it be?

For Israel to stop committing genocide and the Palestinian people to be able to heal and live the lives they deserve on their land.

What are you holding whilst posing for an oil painting?

Lip liner

What is your spirit animal?

Fox

Funeral song(s)?

Ramones Pet Cemetery… Joking, but that should be played. Maybe This is the Day (The The), Wer bist du? (Georg Danzer) And Hypnotized (Bill Hurst) would have to be played at some point then like Your Tears (Echo Romeo), Sandy Eyes (Zwischenfall), Musica Spaziale; The Fleming remix (Patrizia Pellegrino).. just to name a few. Oh and of course Balla Mozzarella (Giovanni T) haha. My funeral will just be a big get together with my fav people and fav music.

What do you own that you should throw out, but can’t?

Half of my wardrobe, I’m just waiting for it to come back into the rotation.

People are coming over to dinner, what are you serving?

If I’m cooking, an assortment veggie salads but if i could serve anything, a Vietnamese feast

If you could time travel, who are you visiting?

My ancestors

You have a free plane ticket, where are you going?

Europe / Japan / Taiwan

Who are you taking on a date, and where are you going? (time travel is allowed)

Iggy pop to the Ute Muster

If you could change the end of any film what would it be and what would you change it to?

I've never really thought about changing a film's ending..

Why do you think we are here on planet earth at this time?

To reverse the damage 🤞

What's the weirdest dream you've ever had?

My dreams are all weird, I couldn’t pick one. They’re my happy place though, all a bit deranged but comforting. I also lucid dream, I’ve found it’s usually when a dream gets boring I can recognise and take over.

If you were an ice cream flavour, what would it be?

Pistachio

If you could learn one new skill instantly, what would it be?

Prosthetics! I want to have sculpting/ 3d rendering, mouldmaking, filling, painting and appling all down, instantly would definitely be preferable.