2023 NAHA Colorist of the Year Winner Luis Gonzalez

Mastering the art of creative color isn’t just about choosing tones, it's understanding placement and how to build layers of color that will come alive when the hair is shaped and dried. It’s safe to say that Luis Gonzalez has mastered this concept. His latest collection TRI*CHRO*MATIC, features electric colors brilliantly placed and showcased to elevate each finished look. It’s not just us who agree — this collection earned Luis an award as Colorist of the Year at the 2023 NAHA’s. To learn more about Luis, his process, and his gorgeous collection, keep reading!

Luis Gonzalez 2023 Winning NAHA Colorist of the Year Collection

Tell us more about you as an artist and how your work has evolved.

I’ve always been mesmerized by imagery. My work has always been influenced by fashion and art. My aesthetic has evolved and become more polished over the years.

What was the inspiration behind your collection?

The inspiration behind my collection was a celebration of all things color. I began my research by watching fashion, art, and music films. I was inspired largely in part by “Black is King,” the 2020 musical film and visual album directed, written and executive produced by Beyoncé. “There was so much color in that film,” explains Luis, “I would actually screenshot the images of color on the screen and that is what inspired the color concept for my collection. The brightest, most vibrant colors in the world.

How does it feel to win at NAHA!?

Being nominated feels incredible, winning feels ecstatic, I am so beyond happy to have my work recognized.

What was your biggest focus with the color?

When working with color my focus is to make everything be harmonious, all of the elements have to have a sense of balance. The color will always be the focus so the haircut, styling, and makeup have to contribute to the final image and not pull attention from it.

What products/tools did you utilize to enhance each shade?

I played with mixing “natural” bases with vibrant dimensions. Starting off with a more natural base will make a fashion color appear more expensive and luxurious.

How did you create the placement of shades?

I wanted each placement to complement the others, so I followed a similar sectioning. I used triangular sections to make each bold block of color blend to the next.

What other forms of art inspire you?

I love all forms of art! I love films, photography, and nature. Fashion shows are beyond inspirational to me.

What was your favorite part about the shoot?

My favorite part of the shoot is the butterflies I get once the first shot is nailed which sets the tone for the rest of the shoot!

How did you select your team? Have you worked with them before?

It all started with a conversation between Caroline Miller the photographer and myself. I’ve worked with Allen Ruiz on many other projects so I knew he needed to be involved. As far as makeup, Lani Fisher creates very modern fresh looks so I knew she was the person for the job!

Any major learnings from previous NAHA shoots that made the 5th time the charm?

Just going in with your intuition and being your authentic self. I've found over the years that the more genuine my collection is, the better it is received.

Best advice for anyone getting ready to enter their first NAHA?

Set a date and work backwards. The hardest thing for me is getting started and once I set a deadline it’s all hands on deck. Remember that your work will always evolve and get better and better overtime. Learn from each experience/shoot and apply your learnings to the next project!!!