We are thrilled to partner once again with the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) to promote all of the talented artists who are finalists for the 2017 NAHAs (North American Hairstyling Awards), the most prestigious hair and beauty award in the country. In this feature get to know more about this year's Styling & Finishing Finalist, Mark Dolan.
The form and the feel, two elements Mark Dolan explores in his Styling & Finishing NAHA finalist collection. His work is multidimensional in his beautiful study of aesthetic, texture and form. He has almost created a sculpture from the hair of his models. Using their hair (and not extensions) he shows us off a true talent of hairdressing: working with what you have. Read on to learn more about Mark’s images and his inspiration behind the looks.
If you were to describe your collection in one word, what would it be?
Boujee.
What was the inspiration behind this collection?
I wanted the collection to have an L.A. Street fashion culture vibe to it but with the baddest ass, ridiculous hair to go along with it.
What was your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge was the first picture in the collection (long blonde hair). It was not easy creating those shapes and all my models were done with their own hair, no hairpieces.
How did you translate your vision into hair?
I think with the jackets and the makeup, it had a very street couture look to the shoot – almost a Nylon-esque (magazine) vibe to it. My make-up artist Julie Lam is incredibly talented.
What is your favorite aspect of styling and finishing?
My favorite aspect is the translation of feel to form. How is the mood is set can totally be transferred to hair, shape and texture.
How did you select your team? Have you worked with them before?
Richard Monsiuers has been our photographer for a couple of years now. He also does shoots for L'ANZA, the company I work for. He's amazing to watch and is one of the most talented beauty photographers I've ever seen. Julie Lam was my MUA. She is a client/friend of mine who I admire very much. She used to be the MUA for Prince and his band for a couple of years and went on tour with him.
Tell us a little more about you, as an artist.
In the platform artist realm, I'm known more as a styling first artist. But at home I do everything: cut, color, and style. I work behind the chair 50-55 hours a week back home at Evolution in Minneapolis. My mantra on stage as an educator has always been about doing real hair for real people. I think that translates in my collections from the last two years and in what I do when I educate.
How do you Vegas?
Well... I drink. I pool. I gamble a little. And then I get the hell out of there... hoping that I'm not too hungover at the airport.
Salty or sweet?
When I was younger I was always an appetizer and dinner type person compared to dinner and dessert. But now I crave atleast a couple of bites of something at the end of my meal. You might see a bag of Sour Patch Kids in my bag too.
What did you learn about yourself through creating this collection?
I learned to let go. I didn't over stress this time going into it. I let the shapes come to me and adjusted as I went and I most importantly, had fun.
What element did you focus on most in your collection?
I wanted it to look clean. And I wanted the shapes to be almost overreaching. I think it happened... no?
What do you think? Be sure to sound off in the comments below and stalk Mark Dolan on Bangstyle to see even more NAHA inspiration!
