Richard Ghareeb: Mastering The Art Of Transformation In Makeup

Rikardos Garib, also known as Richard Ghareeb, is a renowned makeup artist celebrated for his ability to enhance natural beauty and create transformative looks. With a wealth of experience across fashion, television, and special events, Garib is known for his precision, creativity, and commitment to excellence.

His expertise and artistry have earned him the trust of high-profile clients and celebrities, further elevating his reputation as one of the most sought-after professionals in the industry.

Whether he’s designing red carpet-ready styles or daring editorial transformations, Garib’s work is defined by his adaptability and keen eye for detail. His collaborations with top-tier artists and involvement in high-visibility projects have solidified his position as a leading figure in the makeup world.

In this exclusive Q&A, Garib opens up about his journey, creative process, and what it takes to stand out in the competitive world of makeup artistry.

RICHARD GHAREEB WORKING HIS MAKEUP MAGIC ON THE ICONIC ARAB STAR NAWAL ZOGHBI – IMAGE: RICHARD GHAREEB

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in makeup artistry, and how did you break into the industry?

My passion for makeup artistry began at a young age when I realized the transformative power of makeup, not just in how people look but in how they feel. Seeing how a single brushstroke or the right shade could boost confidence and encourage self-expression deeply fascinated me.

I broke into the industry by building my portfolio through small projects and collaborations, often offering free services in the beginning. Gradually, I started working with larger brands and artists, which solidified my presence in the makeup world.

2. What has been the most memorable project or collaboration in your career so far, and why?

One of the most memorable projects in my career was collaborating with Nawal El Zoghbi on the set of Hafla. Working closely with such an iconic artist was incredible, and the creative freedom I was given allowed me to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional makeup.

The result was a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern flair, which received a lot of positive attention. It was a defining moment in my career, reaffirming my belief in my unique artistic voice.

3. How do you approach creating transformative looks while staying true to a client’s natural beauty?

My approach to makeup is always centered around enhancing a client’s natural beauty rather than masking it. I take the time to understand their facial structure, skin tone, and personality to create a look that complements rather than overwhelms. I believe makeup should enhance one’s natural features while incorporating creativity and flair.

By focusing on subtle contouring, harmonious color choices, and precise application, I ensure the transformation feels authentic and empowering to the client.

4. What do you think sets your work apart in the competitive world of makeup artistry?

What sets my work apart is my ability to blend traditional techniques with modern trends, creating looks that are both timeless and relevant. I have a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of how makeup interacts with different lighting, skin tones, and camera angles, which is particularly important in the entertainment industry.

Working with high-profile artists has taught me to balance creativity with practicality, ensuring the final look stands out while meeting production demands.

5. What challenges have you faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was establishing myself in a highly competitive industry. At the start, it was difficult to find consistent work and to get my name out there.

I overcame this by remaining persistent, building my network, and consistently delivering high-quality results, regardless of the project size. I also invested in continuing education, staying updated with the latest trends and techniques, which kept me at the forefront of the industry.

6. What advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists aiming to work with high-profile clients and celebrities?

My advice would be to always prioritize professionalism and develop a strong work ethic. Working with high-profile clients requires not only skill but also the ability to work under pressure and adapt to last-minute changes.

Networking is key, but so is patience. Focus on building a strong portfolio, and don’t hesitate to start small. Consistency and dedication will eventually lead to bigger opportunities. Additionally, always stay current with trends and continuously refine your craft.

7. You’ve worked with iconic Arab stars like Al Shami on Dwaliand Nawal El Zoghbi on Haflaand Fakhamet Maalik. What was it like collaborating with such renowned artists, and how did you approach creating looks that complemented their star power and the vision of these music videos?

Working with stars like Al Shami and Nawal El Zoghbi has been a highlight of my career. These artists have distinct identities, so my approach was always to align the makeup with their personal brand while enhancing the visual narrative of the music video.

For Dwali, I used a bold, glamorous style to complement Al Shami’s vibrant presence, whereas for Nawal El Zoghbi’s Hafla, the focus was on elegance and sophistication to match her timeless appeal. My goal was to balance the artist’s natural beauty with the project’s creative demands, ensuring the final look elevated both the performance and the video’s visual impact.

IMAGE: RICHARD GHAREEB

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