GUITY RAFIK-SURREY

Growing up a first generation Afghan in Virginia, USA, I never quite felt like I belonged anywhere.  Surrounded by every influence from 80s-90s Americana pop culture, (MTV, Hollywood movies on repeat, Vogue fashion magazines…), to the traditional sights and sounds of an Afghan household, (including Bollywood films, 60s Afghan pop music, Kajal liner….), I felt both a part of and outside of these worlds, simultaneously.  But there was one great escape- film!  When the world felt bigger, film was my way of seeing it all.  For a few hours, I would be fully immersed, trying to feel like the main character.  I was mesmerized by how magic seemed to happen on the screen, from the makeup to the lights to the single tear perfectly rolling down the actor’s face. This very early passion for film, art, transformation and storytelling helped cultivate my career path.  

Makeup artistry was a way to combine all of them.  

 

  After a few years of honing my artistic and technical skills at the Corcoran College of Art+Design, I knew it was time to fully pursue my fx/makeup artistry career.  With just a one way ticket and a dream, I moved to the land of film- Los Angeles!  In the next decade I would have the opportunity to learn from the best, collaborate with incredible talent, and work on a variety of projects, including lots of music videos, films, and commercials.  When not on set, I’ve been assisting in special effects labs, designing, sculpting, painting, and bringing all sorts of characters to life. 

 

  But an artist is never satisfied!  I am constantly trying to find new ways to perfect my skills and push the boundaries of creativity.  By mixing makeup, special effects, and the creative influences of my culture, I hope to continue to shape and change the landscape of storytelling. 

 

  I’m currently based in LA as a freelance sfx/makeup artist and looking forward to working with you soon!