Meet SHIKEERA KEITH | MAKEUP ARTIST

We had the good fortune of connecting with SHIKEERA KEITH and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi SHIKEERA, why did you pursue a creative career?
Honestly, There was a demand for my skills before I was even offering them as a service. When I was eight and in love with oil pastels & doodling, I thought Art only lived on canvases. Around age ten hair styling peaked my interest. I would braid hair for hours a day. The designs were so intricate, I knew it was art. By age fourteen I started focusing on poetry and almost thought I wanted a degree in English Literature. Makeup & Nail Artistry is where I ended up investing myself but I don’t know if I pursued it or if it was simply in me and I’m just using my gifts.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I DONT KNOW WHAT IT IS, BUT I KNOW I HAVE IT ! I love hearing people say “I knew that was a H8KEERA beat” when referencing a clients makeup after I’ve posted the content. I’m not sure exactly what makes my art distinctive in the eyes of others but my brand tag is NO FACE LEFT BEHIND. I pride myself on being able to offer something to each client who seeks me out ; no matter the complexion, skin type, eye shape, age, or sex. My slogan isn’t performative, it’s essential to my craft. Its in the smile of a client who stands up from my chair and looks in the mirror staring in awe. I want to provide that feeling to as many people as possible in this lifetime.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I have friends visit me all the time. Growing up and living in NYC is nothing like my life in Louisville so when they vacay at my home it’s always an experience. I literally build out an itinerary for each day of their stay. The restaurants and activities are always changing because I love trying new places. If I had to choose a few foodie favorites based solely upon the fact that I always go back I’d say Con Huevos, Louisville cream, and Brooklyn & the Butcher. My favorite places to take a friend activity wise recently has been the Craftery bar or Maddox & Rose Marketplace. Food and Fun aside -the best thing about this city is it creatives. I have met some of the most talented individuals here and Its an honor to be inspired by your peers.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who support me -family, friends, old coworkers, & complete strangers. I’m grateful to everyone who contributes to my entrepreneurial journey but the people I feel the most gratitude for would definitely be my grandparents. My Nana bought me so many art kits as a child. She really encouraged me with the most gentle & generous efforts. Even as an adult, when I wanted to take a class to elevate my skills my grandfather would invest his time and money in support of me. “Thank You” will never be enough recognition for how they have contributed to my growth. With no financial assistance I believe my grandparents prayers alone could hold my hand on this journey.

Website: H8KEERA.COM

Instagram: @H8KEERA

Image Credits
BEAUX PHOTOGRAPHY by HANNAH ROBINSON