Palma N’Sheluvzit is a Semi-Finalist for the 2015 Contessa Awards, lucky for us we get to show you Palma’s nominated work and learn a little more about her as an artist and what this competition means to her.
You’re nominated in two categories for a Contessa this year, how does this accomplishment affect you and your career?
Being a semi-finalist in two categories for the Contessa Awards for Avant Garde and Ontario Hairstylist of the year is the biggest honour. Having my art loved and respected is all I could ask for. This accomplishment inspires me to continue to create my art and share my experiences.
What do these awards mean to you?
The Contessa Awards means a lot of many things for me. One important aspect of these awards for me is Unity. These awards give all us hair artists a night to celebrate and shine together. A night to respect our craft and a night that honours our talent.
Do you have any advice for artists thinking about entering the Contessas next year?
My advice for hair artists thinking about entering the Contessa Awards for next year is, Just Do It! I always say Nike is a multi-million dollar company because these logo is Just Do It not just try. The moment you feel uncomfortable is the minute you begin to grow. So do it and share your art! The only way to be heard is to be seen!
How did you dream up your collection for Contessa?
My 2016 collection was inspired by the power and strength of our industry. Each piece of the collection represents a characteristic that reflects my thoughts of our industry. Authenticity, Integrity and Love.
How do the Contessas impact your styling career?
The Contessa Awards are a major part of my career. These prestigious awards are honourable and highly respected around the world and to be apart of these awards is a true blessing. The Contessa Awards have and continue to give us hair artists a platform to shine. I thank the Contessa Awards for the many years of love and support not only for me but for our industry as a whole.
What were the influences behind this collection?
The influences behind this collection comes from the powerful words that represent our industry. Authenticity-is represented by the black piece; as I believe that we are all artists and we stay true to who we are. Integrity-is represented by the brown piece. It symbolizes the unity of all hair artists and supporting one another. Love-is represented by the white piece. This is a symbol of our love for our craft.
What was your favorite aspect of this shoot?
My favourite aspect of this photoshoot is that the team was synchronized. When the team sees the final result before the shoot is done, you know your on the right path. Team Work is key! From the talented stylist and makeup artist Fatima Muniz and the brilliant photographer Babak as well as the fabulous models. All these aspects come together to make my hair art shine.
What was your biggest challenge in bringing this collection to life?
I like to be challenged. The challenge is to always be prepared for something to change the direction or look of the pieces. Being open to new ideas as they cross my path while developing my hair art. The challenge is always a positive one when open to it!
What tools do you use to promote your art?
My tools are my hands. All my art is hand braided and sewn together.
How did you develop your style as an artist?
The more I have become aware of who I am I discovered that my style is truly Avant Garde. "New and unusual or experimental ideas, especially in the arts, or the people introducing them."
If you could have a super power what would it be and why?
If I had a super power it would be a super power of Hair! I would help those who had hair lose to grow hair and those who had to much hair to lose hair. And of course those who don't want those wonderful grey/white hairs and to only have to color their hair for the enjoyment and not to have to worry about covering up unwanted grey hair. Now that's a power. Palma The SuperHero...The only one wearing a cape is the client ;)
With this competition: What was the biggest challenge/learning curve for you?
With every competition comes new challenges and it is that which makes it a learning experience. You may not see it at the moment but you soon realize what you have learnt when your next competition comes to play.
Hair artist: Palma N’Sheluvzit
Stylist and makeup artist: Fatima Muniz
Photographer: Babak
Models:
Image one: Tracy Messenger
Image two: Elodie Em
Image three: Laura-Christine Clark
Be sure to stalk Palma N’Sheluvzit on Bangstyle to see more of her amazing art!
