Spotlight: Christine Valdivia

CHRISTINE VALDIVIA

We recently had the pleasure of catching up with Christine Valdivia and are excited to share our conversation below.

Thank you for sharing your story with us! Could you start by telling our readers a bit about your background and how your journey began?

I’m a makeup artist for film and television based in the Los Angeles area, specializing in horror and prosthetics. My journey began with a love for storytelling through visuals—especially the kind that pushes boundaries and transforms reality. I was always drawn to the behind-the-scenes magic of creature creation, gore effects, and character transformations.

What challenges have you faced along the way, and what lessons have you learned? Looking back, would you say the journey has been smooth or full of obstacles?

The journey definitely hasn’t been smooth—it’s been full of obstacles, but each one has pushed me to grow. The film industry is incredibly competitive, especially in a place like Los Angeles where there are so many talented artists. One of the biggest challenges has been learning how to stand out and carve out a space for myself. Early on, I realized that if I wanted to make a lasting impact, I couldn’t just be good—I had to be unique. That’s what led me to specialize in horror and prosthetic makeup. Finding that niche not only allowed me to showcase what I love most, but also helped me connect with a community of filmmakers who share the same passion for bold, creative storytelling. One major lesson I’ve learned is that perseverance and authenticity go a long way. Staying true to your style while constantly evolving your skills is key to staying relevant and building a solid reputation in this industry.

In your opinion, what has been the key factor in your success?

In my opinion, the key factor in my success has been staying open to opportunities. The film industry can be unpredictable, and sometimes the best experiences come from unexpected places. Whether it’s a small indie project or a last-minute call for a short film, I’ve learned to say yes and stay flexible.

Let’s shift the focus to your work for a moment—can you tell us more about what you do and what sets your work apart?

Absolutely! As a makeup artist specializing in horror, my work stands out because it allows for a level of creativity and experimentation that other genres can sometimes limit. Horror makeup pushes boundaries—whether it’s creating realistic wounds, designing creatures, or applying intricate prosthetics, there’s so much room to play and invent. It’s not just about making someone look good; it’s about telling a story through transformation, often in bold and unexpected ways. That freedom to experiment has helped me develop a distinct style and voice within the industry, and it’s opened doors to some really unique and exciting projects.

Do you have any advice for those who are just starting out on a similar path?

My biggest piece of advice for anyone starting out is to practice constantly and take every opportunity to shadow more experienced artists. Before any project, I make it a point to rehearse looks, test out techniques, and troubleshoot ahead of time so I can show up to set fully prepared. Being confident in your skills comes from repetition and preparation, and that extra effort really shows in your work.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned throughout your journey?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned throughout my journey is to always push myself. This industry constantly challenges you, and it’s easy to fall into a comfort zone—but growth comes from stepping beyond that. Whether it’s taking on a complex prosthetic build, learning a new technique, or saying yes to a project that feels intimidating, pushing myself has led to some of my most rewarding experiences.

From your perspective, what’s the most fulfilling part of being a creative?

From my perspective, the most fulfilling part of being a creative is getting to meet new people and collaborate with incredibly talented artists. Every project brings together a unique team with different backgrounds, skills, and perspectives, and there’s something really inspiring about that kind of creative energy.