Wella has announced the 36 Finalists for the 2016 North American TrendVision Awards. Molten Ecaille and Bronde Luxe inspired all the looks this year, ideas set forth by the Wella Professionals Trends for 2016. In addition to these inspirations, each artist has their own, that greatly influence their looks in diverse ways. Learn about these inspirations and more about the artists who create these beautiful works of art! In this artist feature, we learn about Daniel Grieco, who started as an apprentice and learned tremendously from each of his mentors throughout his career, which led him to where he is now.
Can you tell us a little more about you and your styling background?
I started in the industry at 18 years old, as an apprentice. Learning all the basics; from shampooing, to applying color, and even learning the psychology of this industry on how to treat and talk to clients, which is a very important part. I am very grateful for my bosses for teaching me this.
What drew you to hair styling?
I was always interested in the arts and music industry and I felt hair was very much tied into that, with fashion and trends. I also enjoyed being around people and having the whole social aspect.
What is your favorite technique to use?
I really don't have just one favorite technique that I use. I really enjoy doing everything that I come across, from short to long haircuts, to creative coloring. The key is to always keep yourself well educated, and always have the attitude to always keep learning.
What has been your biggest defining moment in your career?
The biggest defining moment in my career is making top 5 all over Canada and having the privilege in competing in TRENDVISION 2016 and represent Canada in Barcelona.
Can you give us a bit of insight into what the typical creative process behind creating a collection?
My creative process behind creating my collection could come from many things from different trend's that are happening around our world, to even listening to different genre's of music or to even looking at different structures and unique surfaces.
Is there a specific area you often find yourself looking to for inspiration?
I know music definitely plays a big part of inspiration in my life. It plays a big part in your attitude and overall outlook and feelings on things. Music can really make you channel your energy from a creative aspect and help create your total vision.
Do you have any rituals to ensure a successful shoot?
I really don't have any real rituals to ensure a successful shoot. It all boils down to being really prepared and doing your homework, and going into it with a positive attitude and walking in with a clear and open mind. That's when the so-called magic happens.
What is the one product/tool that you can’t live without?
There really isn't just one specific thing that I couldn't live without because all my tools and products play such a different role on things, but one thing I always have with me is my large rake comb, as it always allows me to create that soft fluid look.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
I wish I had the ability to heal people. I really get great satisfaction and fulfillment on making people feel great about themselves. What greater satisfaction it would be then to cure the sick and help out many struggling people in this world.
Who were your mentors along the way?
I am very fortunate and grateful that I had many mentors in this industry. From my early bosses who taught me all the basics of haircutting, coloring, and finishing and the ways of the hair industry. I am very thankful and grateful to Joe, Vince and Domenic, for teaching me all this. Another incredible icon and special mentor is an amazing and beautiful woman Mirella Rota Sementilli, who's passion and care for this industry is second to none. She strives always for perfection and expects nothing, and always teaches me to be the same way. Her work ethic is incredible and she approaches things with great passion and great confidence. She has always been a special mentor to me. Another mentor I truly look up to and is such a big icon in the industry is Frank Dicintio, he is an incredible and talented creative and knowledgeable stylist. Even more, Frank is an incredible human being, and he has an amazing way of teaching you on how to approach things on a whole different frame of mind. I am very grateful and fortunate to have him as a mentor in my life.
What has it been like, so far, to compete for Wella Trend Vision?
It has been a tremendous experience so far, and a dream come true. I have learned and grown extensively from this great company, Wella. I am very grateful and humbled to have this opportunity.
What do the Trend Vision awards mean to you?
This means everything to me. This is like the Olympics of hair, and you have to come in extremely prepared and extremely mentally focused and have the determination and drive to win. It has the opportunity to launch your career tremendously.
Be sure to stay tuned to hear more about the awards and see the winners of the 2016 NATVA!
