Photo: Michel Takla
Michel Kiwarkis is adjusting the ridge of a hat made entirely out of feathers. The makeup artist has created all the hats for this Vogue Arabia shoot – an artisanal act that he considers to be a natural progression from beauty. “As a makeup artist, I am responsible for creating a complete and cohesive look that enhances the individual’s features and reflects the overall concept of the shoot,” he says. “I realized that by incorporating headpieces and head accessories, I could take my artistry to the next level and create a truly multidimensional look.”
“For me, making hats is a form of expression,” remarks Kiwarkis. He believes that it adds an extra layer of fantasy and creates a unique visual narrative. “Being mainly in charge of the face, I want to have control over every aspect of the model’s appearance. Crafting headpieces allows me to accentuate my work and draw attention to the center of visual focus. I like to create a harmonious balance that brings the entire look together.”
Photo: Michel Takla
The artist aspires towards the hats he creates being interpreted and appreciated in various ways. “They evoke different eras, cultures, and emotions,” he says. “They don’t necessarily have a strict reference point but emerge from a feeling and vision that materializes when I see the fashion choices for the entire shoot.” Each hat he crafts is a testament to his dedication to creating a transformative and captivating beauty experience.
Born in Beirut, Kiwarkis recalls a childhood full of creativity, colors, and drawings. “I knew since I was seven years old that I wanted to be an artist. I remember looking up at my mother, and watching the way she would mix and match her jewelry, her clothes, her hair, and her makeup as being so inspiring to me.” In Lebanon, he was surrounded by a vibrant fashion scene, which served to fuel his passion even further. He met influential individuals who guided and…
