Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1538122
32 • THE ARTISAN FALL 2025 PHOTOS COURTESY OF APPLE TV+ EMBODYING THE HISTORY OF THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS B Y C H R I S T I E N T I N S L E Y D E P A R T M E N T M A K E - U P / D E S I G N E R W riting about a 12-month journey, where one is immersed in a richly layered culture from the late 1700s— a world where everything carries profound symbolism—is not easily summarized in a few paragraphs. On the surface, the new Apple TV+ series starring Jason Momoa might appear similar to any other period action-driven drama. Certainly, it boasts a distinct aesthetic with a stunning tropical backdrop. However, it's within the secondary design layers and the hidden intricacies of the work that this project truly distinguished itself, becoming simultaneously difficult, exhilarating, and deeply fulfilling. With a 30-year career, few things surprise or even excite me anymore. I wouldn't say I'm jaded, but there's a limit to how many recycled ideas and creative restrictions one can navigate before feeling a touch numb. Therefore, it's rare for a project to emerge where the entirety of the ask feels entirely new, exciting, and a little terrifying all at once. The fundamental brief for Analyn Cruz (Department Head Hair) and myself was to design the hair styles, character make-up, tattoos, and make-up effects that authentically embodied the real people of the 1700s Hawaiian Islands. Our mission was to tell their story as it truly unfolded, depicting the events that transpired during a pivotal period of territorial dispute. At face value, the task presented obvious challenges, particularly regarding the limited time allocated for prep leading into principal photography. Budget restrictions were also a factor, though, honestly, these were among the least of our concerns—a rare occurrence. The monumental nature of the undertaking truly revealed itself when we began to delve deeper into the demands of historical accuracy.