Exclusive Interview with SP Eastland: A Makeup Artist from Senapati, Manipur Making Waves in the Global Make-Up Industry

Some of her high-profile clients include Gauri Khan, Suhana Khan, Mira Rajput, and many more.

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SP Eastland’s Instagram Handle

SP Eastland, a professional makeup artist from the small town of Senapati in Manipur, has taken the beauty industry by storm. Her extraordinary talent and passion have propelled her to global recognition, working with big names in the film, business, and fashion industries. Some of her high-profile clients include Gauri Khan, Suhana Khan, Mira Rajput, and many more. Despite her humble beginnings, Eastland’s journey has been one of resilience, dedication, and creativity.

Today, Ourtimes.in is pleased to have Eastland join us for an exclusive interview to discuss her inspiring journey, her rise to success, and what motivates her to keep going in the ever-evolving world of makeup artistry.

Ourtimes.in: Tell us, Eastland, how did it all start?

SP Eastland: Makeup was something I was always interested in. I remember experimenting with makeup as early as my preteen years. Back then, becoming a professional makeup artist wasn’t even on my mind. In those days, makeup artists weren’t taken seriously as a profession, especially in small towns like mine. Everyone thought about becoming doctors or engineers. So, after my 10th in 2002, I went to Delhi for higher studies. I completed my graduation and even started studying Chartered Accountancy (CA), but I dropped it halfway, which was disappointing to some people.

After a lot of reflection, I decided to follow my passion, and in 2009, I enrolled in a professional makeup course for six months. Shortly after, I joined the international makeup brand MAC Cosmetics, and that’s where it all began for me.

Ourtimes.in: What inspired you at the beginning of your career?

SP Eastland: Oh, I love answering this question! Once I started my career as a makeup artist, every day felt like a blessing, not just for me but for the people I worked with. Being a makeup artist is more than just a job — you’re boosting confidence, allowing self-expression, and creating memorable moments for your clients. Every day brings an opportunity to make someone feel more beautiful, confident, and special. The biggest thing that kept inspiring me was seeing the beautiful smiles on my clients’ faces after their makeovers. It made me so content, grateful, and motivated to keep going passionately.

Ourtimes.in: How long did it take to be where you are today?

SP Eastland: True success doesn’t happen overnight. It requires patience and hard work. It took me seven years to be where I am today. I started as a retail makeup artist and got promoted to store manager in just two years. During my time with MAC Cosmetics, I learned so much from famous international artists and was fortunate to work on many photoshoots for celebrities and prestigious fashion events like Fashion Week and Couture Week. I also had the opportunity to travel internationally for backstage makeup. If you don’t rush life, you’ll find that the rewards are much sweeter, stronger, and long-lasting.

Ourtimes.in: What was your first big break?

SP Eastland: My breakthrough came while I was still working with MAC Cosmetics. One of my clients, socialite Kalyani Chawla, invited me to travel in a chartered plane to a big fat Indian wedding in Jaisalmer at the Suryagarh Palace in Rajasthan. I was to do the bridal makeup for Karishma Jhalani, a renowned Bollywood filmmaker and art director. To my surprise, the entire wedding event, along with my work, was featured in International Vogue and other major wedding portals. That very year, I ended up doing bridal makeup for 15 more weddings among her friends and family. That was definitely a turning point in my career.

Ourtimes.in: What keeps you creatively motivated?

SP Eastland: The variety of faces I get to work on keeps me motivated. Each face has its own unique structure, skin tone, and features, which challenges me to be creative every time. The different outfits, hairstyles, and occasions all add to the excitement. Makeup allows me to play with colors, and I love that aspect of it. Another huge motivation is the happiness and smiles I receive from my clients after they see the final look. Their heartfelt thank-you messages and the special memories I help create on their big days keep me going.

And of course, my two lovely boys are my greatest motivators. They give me the strength and drive to keep pushing forward.

Ourtimes.in: What advice would you give to those trying to break into the industry?

SP Eastland: The makeup industry is rapidly growing and will continue to expand in the coming years as more and more people use makeup to enhance their beauty, personality, and confidence. But as I mentioned earlier, success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes a lot of practice and dedication to become a successful artist, so there’s no escaping hard work. For those from smaller towns, it may seem like people don’t take this profession seriously, but if you are passionate and put your heart and soul into it, you can achieve great things. Never give up on your dreams, no matter how small or big they may seem.

In this industry, it’s also important to communicate well with your clients and have a positive attitude. Patience is key, as the work can involve long, unpredictable hours, especially for photoshoots, productions, and weddings. It can be stressful at times, but it’s a fantastic career for those who love creativity. And no matter how busy you get, always remember to thank the Almighty and stay humble and grounded.

I hope these tips are helpful to anyone aspiring to make it in this wonderful industry!

Ourtimes.in: Thank you so much, Eastland! Your journey is truly inspiring, and we’re sure your story will motivate many to follow their passions.

SP Eastland: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure sharing my journey with you. I hope it inspires others to pursue their dreams too.