Meet Lymar Shaw | They/Them & Makeup Artist

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

Hi Lymar, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Makeup Artistry was truly something that I fell into, merely for more confidence, yet it has changed me as a person and my life. Makeup has allowed me to discover and develop confidence, that I didn’t know I had. Once I was able to hone in on my craft and enjoy the “SuperHero” feeling, I knew this needed to be shared with the world. Confidence doesn’t come easy and my mission is to spark that flame, so everyone will know what it feels like! It’s through my artistry that I can express myself and remember to color outside the lines. I have learned that through art, there are no rules. Coming from a background where I was often controlled by rules, the feeling of self expression unapologetically was incomparable. I was looking for a better version of myself and art and creativity found me along the way.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a professional makeup artist, I get challenged and learn something new each and everyday. I didn’t always know I wanted to be a Makeup Artist, especially since I wanted to be a pediatrician since the 4th grade. I was a senior in High School and I had moderate acne, but nothing was working. So, I asked my friend at the time about makeup and I didn’t expect how it would change me and my life. From that point on I knew I loved that “Superhero” feeling I had with makeup. I would watch videos everyday, follow along and take it off and do it on my own. I would sit down with artists, and practice practice practice. I was determined. I learned technique during my Drag Queen era. I studied products, ingredients, you name it. I’m naturally a nerd at heart and I love to learn, so I needed to know everything!
The cool thing about living in Miami is the culture and the fact that there is art all around, along with people! I was able to explore for inspiration and utilize the diversity to my advantage. It wasn’t until I did makeup on a friend of mine that I knew I wanted to make this my career, easier said than done. I found myself doing makeup on any and every one! For little to no cost. I was able to work with many socialites and upcoming celebrities, professional dancers, video vixens, all with the party capital Miami! When I would want to improve on something, I would practice until I met my goal. When I set my mind on something, I will get it!
Almost 10 years later, was it easy?
No not at all.
I love the saying “Mountains aren’t made from the top down.” This sums up my career as a Professional Makeup Artist. I’m always climbing and becoming better each day. I’m ever evolving and perfecting my craft. My attention to detail is impeccable, not to mention your makeup will match you perfectly, even with flash! This helps by realizing that everyone is unique, there is such beauty in this. Whether a red carpet moment or Halloween Scarecrow, everyone is special!Realizing that you are the judge of your best. Realizing that comparing should only happen with yourself. I now collaborate with people from all walks of life, just to remind them that beauty comes from within. After sitting with me, you will be reminded that you are beautiful with and without makeup. I merely want to enhance your natural beauty, it may take a few hours, but we will get there!

My band director at FIU has a saying that I live by, it goes “Good, Better, Best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better, and your better is best!”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of my favorite spots is actually the swinging tables at FIU, where we would start the day with Starbucks! I love walks, so I’d lead a walk through campus to look at the art and the Sky Lounge, which is made out of Skyy Vodka bottle. The walk would lead us to Latin America Restaurant on 8th street. Now I first had Spanish food when I moved to Miami and, OH BOY it’s great! At Latin America, they serve all meals all day. Breakfast for dinner and steak in the morning. Can you tell I like to eat? We would definitely end up at Shots, even Sweet Carolina, definitely somewhere in Wynwood. Definitely Bougies, the drinks are great!
Of course we have to make a trip to Ocean Ave, full glam, to do a little shopping and have an impromptu beach Photoshoot. Take a trip to Lincoln Road for more shopping
I love the space museum and the fact the ColdStone Creamery is not too far!
There is this restaurant, El Rinconcito, you’ll thank me later. That’s probably dinner for us a few nights, depends on how late we stay at Dolphin Mall
This trip sounds amazing and we are able to experience and witness so much culture. Raw, fresh, real Miami

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am grateful for all of the family, friends, bullies, teachers and mistakes that have gotten me to where I am now. Everything plays a part in our being and our path, especially depending on how you react. My parents have taught me to be tough and independent, all while getting a good laugh in!
During my college years, I met incredible people while I was in the FIU ColorGuard. I gained confidence, discipline, consistency a smoking hot body, and family for life! It was the best decision my best friend, Nicole, dragged me into! Nicole, my family, constantly pushes me to become better and expects the same of me. She accepts all parts of me. It’s great to see your growth within someone else especially almost 10 years later.
I’m not sure if she remembers me, but I had a counselor at the Boys&Girls named Ms. Fran, who was accepting and caring. She also gave me my very first Photoshoot, with my leather jacket! Hahaha!
It’s crazy how all the little things adds up to be the big version of yourself.

Instagram: @itslymama

Facebook: Lymar Shaw

Image Credits
Jenna B Jhon B Nicole D