There are so many ways I can begin this introduction. But I will just start here, Inge Grognard has been one of my top inspirations as not only a makeup artist, but as a human in observation of other humans and telling that story. Her work seems to come from a place of curiosity and discovery. Almost every time I have looked at work and in deep admiration, I find it was the work behind her hands and imagination. Anywhere form Balenciaga to Helmut Lang, her influence is present. There is an other worldly way about her technique. A form that comes from no care on what others may think, or of any influence of what others may be doing. It comes from herself and what feels like a suspended moment in time. She strikes me as a woman who does things her own way and never lets that down on the regular. She has a minimalist approach with her work that often focuses on one spotlight done in a imperfect perfect manner.
In addition to her fashion work, she co-collaborates with her husband Ronald Stoops who is equally fascinating in his approach to his work. Together they made a book ( Inge Grognard Ronald Stoops , 2010 - 1500 printed all sold out ) that transformed what beauty looked like. Discovering this book was also a giant shift for me and my fascination with the art of makeup and photography. I felt that finally, I was seeing work that I felt inside. A raw undone approach to an industry that can often feel very cookie cutter. It was beyond refreshing and eye opening. Now, If I could only get my hands on one of the 500 copies of her other exceptional book: Make Up Inge Grognard, life would be perfect. When Inge agreed to answer my questions, I felt so many interesting feelings. I hoped that she would enjoy the interview and I was extremely excited to hear her answers. Inge has a very zen way about her mindset, simplicity in her pleasures, and a work ethic harder than mostly any artist I know. Needless to say, I have a huge creative crush on Inge. Enjoy.
-XO
Gloria
Who are you?
Inge Grognard, a woman , a make up artist
Why do you make your work?
Why do you make your work?
My work =my passion
What do you believe in?
What do you believe in?
The people i work with and the people I live with and myself
Name one thing you say yes to?
Name one thing you say yes to?
A drink after work
And one thing you say no to?
Things i don't feel
What change would you like to see?
Too many to mention but realize everything needs time
Name one thing that makes you happy?
One thing is not enough -my partner, my friends and my cats, the sun and the sea, good books, music and movies etc...
How would you describe your personal routine ?
Proper breakfast and a bath
What did you want to be as a child?
Steward on a plane. I thought you had a lot of time to visit all the countries you were flying to ;)))
Can you remember one solid piece of advice you've gotten for the growth of your business / work ?
Can you remember one solid piece of advice you've gotten for the growth of your business / work ?
No , because when I started there were only a few people in Belgium were doing make up
If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
Collaborated with everybody I wanted to collaborate with
Who is one person in culture/ media / etc. that you feel is making positive and inspiring change ?
We as human beings
Can you suggest one or more amazing woman you think I should know about/ reach out to to interview ?
Jenny Meirens , unfortunately she passed away last summer .