Meet Sarah Turner | Makeup Artist and Content Creator

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

Hi Sarah, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Coming from a family of creatives, I’ve always felt that artistic expression was in my nature, but that’s only part of the story. I’ve never felt more at peace than when I have a creative outlet—whether it’s painting, dancing, sewing, or practicing makeup. As a kid, I always had something to keep me connected to the arts. For me, art is one of the most powerful forms of expression, and being able to translate emotions into a makeup look and evoke feelings in others is truly one of the most fulfilling experiences.

What excites me most, though, is bringing fantasies to life. Transforming myself into creatures, fairies, aliens, or animals allows me to keep my inner child alive. It’s a way of reconnecting with the boundless imagination I had growing up. I believe that without that sense of wonder, I wouldn’t be the artist I am today. Instead of just creating for an algorithm or catering to the basic expectations of everyday viewers, I focus on creating looks that make me happy. That authenticity fuels my creativity.

I also know that I wouldn’t be where I am today without a deep passion for art and the patience it requires. Crafting a unique style takes time, practice, and constant refinement. I’m always evolving and striving toward my dream goals, and while I know I’ll never reach “perfection,” that’s part of the beauty of being a creative. There’s always room for growth, and that ongoing journey is what keeps me inspired.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a freelance, self-taught makeup artist and content creator. Surprisingly, I only started taking makeup seriously about two years ago, though my interest in it dates back much further. As a child, I was fascinated by special effects makeup in shows and films like Doctor Who and The Lord of the Rings. Growing up in a family that couldn’t afford professional SFX supplies, I got creative, using things like flour and Vaseline for scar wax and red food dye or paint for fake blood. I practiced on myself for years, but like many teens, I lost interest during high school and focused more on traditional art, like painting. After graduating, I even taught art classes for a few months.

It wasn’t until a few years later that I felt a spark of inspiration to try a makeup transition I saw on TikTok. Even though I hadn’t done creative makeup in a long time, I decided to give it a shot. I took the skills I had honed through painting and drawing and adapted them to my face. After a few attempts and investing in better makeup, I started sharing videos of my transformations for fun. To my surprise, they gained traction. The more I practiced, the more fun I had—and soon I found myself challenging my limits and refining my skills. A few viral videos later, I realized this could be more than just a hobby; it could become a career.

The biggest challenge I’ve faced has been balancing my full-time job with pursuing my makeup career. I dream of doing makeup for celebrities on red carpets, but breaking into that world while working a 9-5 is tough. I currently work a full-time customer service job to cover bills and rent. When I lived in Tennessee, I had more time to create, but there weren’t many opportunities there for a makeup artist with the kind of bold, avant-garde style I’m drawn to. So, about a year ago, I moved to Atlanta, knowing it was a city full of creatives and a hub for the film industry. While I still struggle to find enough work to leave my 9-5, being here has opened doors I never expected, connecting me with people and learning experiences that have pushed me forward.

Looking ahead, my goal is to inspire others through my makeup. I want my work to stand as a beacon of individuality. Too often, beauty influencers cater to a specific trend or algorithm, cranking out the same content with slight variations. I made the decision early on not to be just another MUA creator. I want my makeup to be known for its originality and creativity. I’m proud to share the process—whether it’s a “failed” look, a drugstore makeup haul, or raw, unfiltered photos that show my natural skin texture and pores. To me, makeup is about self-expression, and everyone—regardless of age, gender, or background—should feel empowered to experiment with it. That’s the message I want to share.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I were showing someone around the city, I’d definitely take them to Antico Pizza in my favorite little Italian neighborhood—it’s hands down the best pizza in town. Afterward, we’d grab some gelato from one of the local spots; I can never resist a good treat. For a little nature break, I’d take them on a walk along one of the many scenic trails around the city. There’s always something calming about being surrounded by nature in the heart of the city.

One of my must-see spots is the aquarium, where we could marvel at the majestic whale sharks and catch the dolphin show. It’s an experience you won’t forget. And of course, no trip would be complete without catching a show! There’s always something happening in the city—whether it’s a live concert or a theater performance. I’ve seen Cirque du Soleil here a few times, so I’d definitely make sure my friends get to experience one of those incredible performances as well.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My first and biggest shoutout goes to my best friend, Nik. His unwavering support of me and my dreams has been a driving force behind everything I’ve achieved so far. He’s always been there to help me face my fears in this big, unpredictable world, and his encouragement has made all the difference. Nik is an incredibly driven individual and a daily source of inspiration for me. I’m beyond grateful for his constant belief in me.

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to my parents, who gave me the freedom to explore my creativity as a child. They never rushed me to grow up too fast, and they always nurtured my imagination. Their support has been invaluable in helping me stay connected to the arts and follow my passions without limits.

Instagram: https://Sarahbeth.sfx

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-turner-9990bb246