Painted with Raven, hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race icon and Emmy-winning makeup artist, Raven is back! Eight unique makeup artists from across the country compete from their own homes for a chance to showcase their artistry and win $25,000.
To celebrate the new season, we chatted with Ariana Padro, one of the fiercely talented makeup artists competing to win the title of the Next Makeup Superstar this season.
What was your earliest memory of makeup?
I’d have to say my earliest memory of makeup was when I was in the 8th grade and I had a little silicone makeup kit. I had no idea what I was doing but I was so excited and so fascinated by it that I ended up creating some cut-up hand with glass shards in it. I thought I was so cool [laughs].
What about makeup made you become passionate about it?
The ability to transform into whatever I wanted was the reason I became so passionate about makeup. Also, the fact that I didn’t have to follow any “rules” to do makeup how I wanted… Whatever I want to be, I create!
What is one of your favorite looks ever?
My looks from “Ariween;” my Creature from the Black Dragoon and the wicked witch from Snow White!
Who do you look to for inspiration?
I don’t have anyone specific I look to inspiration for, but I will say drag is extremely influential in my overall aesthetic and the way I do my makeup!
What does being on Painted with Raven mean to you?
Being on Painted with Raven means so much to me. Drag and makeup have been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember, so to be on a show that represents both is a big deal to me. I’ve also never had the chance to show the world who Ariana is, so I’m so excited that I finally get to.
What message do you hope viewers can take from seeing you on the show?
Do whatever you love for you. Not everybody is gonna eat it up and that is ok! I’ve been treated like an alien my entire life and I never let that stop me from doing my makeup how I wanted, dressing how I wanted, or shaving my hair off. People that deserve you will appreciate ALL those parts of you.
