Meet Erica Sutton: Freelance Makeup Artist

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

Hi Erica, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Let’s be real… We are all our own worst critic. This has got to stop. There are times I feel like giving up but what makes me keep going is the joy I see on the faces I’ve done after the reveal. I’ve had times where I would scroll social media and think that maybe I’m not as good as others. Then I remind myself that my artistry is unique and a reflection of myself. There is only one YOU. No one can do what you do. They might can copy but they will never be able to do YOU. Over the past year or so, I’ve gained a more positive outlook on life. A positive mindset is what keeps me going. My clients are what keeps me going. As long as I know I can do what I love and it makes a person feel better about themselves, I will keep going and growing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been in the beauty industry for over 10 years as a Freelance Makeup Artist. My company is DeSu Artistry named after my late grandmother, Missionary Evangelist Della K. Sutton. My artistry includes natural to soft to special effects makeup looks. I’ve worked with many amazing creative directors, film producers, music artists, authors and models throughout my career. A proud moment for me was being able to work with a wedding dress designer on a photoshoot that ended up in Harper’s Bazaar UK. This moment as well as others have given me the push I need to know I am on the right track and keep going. Another proud moment was being picked to be apart of the #BeyondTheCave experience, where I was able to go outside my comfort zones to go alongside Nick Cave’s beautiful art pieces. I worked with so many talented creatives during the show. This was a powerful Black movement for my city of Jackson. I’ve went through a lot to get where I am today. From people not working with you because of going with more popular makeup artists to times where I just felt like I didn’t want to do makeup anymore. The way I made it through those times was by staying true to myself and my art form and maintaining a positive mindset. The clients will come and doors will open. I have made a lot of long-lasting relationships with people that took a chance on me. Things I’ve learned on this journey is to stay true to yourself and never let someone tell you what you can’t do. Keep practicing your craft. Be a risk taker. I want the world to know that DeSu Artistry is here to stay and expect more to come in the future.

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.
First, we would have to stop at The Breakfast Klub for breakfast. Wings & Waffle plate, period. We have to hit the Galleria for all the lush and lavish stores. We can go ice skating at Memorial City Mall and shop there after. For lunch, we must go to Guadalajara for the best Tex Mex food and their margaritas are an added bonus. After that perfect lunch, let’s hit Top Golf or The MarqE where we can go to the movies or go bowling. Before heading to dinner, we can grab a few martinis from The Davenport. I love their atmosphere. For dinner, we can hit up the Turkey Leg Hut and listen to music, have big delicious drinks and food. We might as well end the night at The Office for a bit of turn up. There’s really so much to do but Bestie would have to come back and stay two weeks so we can visit so much more.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout is dedicated to my family and close friends for always supporting me and encouraging me to keep going. They never gave up on me and will always be my support system.

Website: www.desuartistry.com
Instagram: desu_artistry
Facebook: DeSu Artistry