Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1541402
4 • THE ARTISAN WINTER 2026 places like the internet, it is important to be cautious and rely on reputable sources. With a little research and cross-checking, unreliable sources can often be identified. Consult multiple sources so you can start assembling your own "recipe," one that's formulated by a thoughtful combination of them all. Some of the most accessible sources of information are from teachers and professors. Perhaps reach out to them. Every teacher holds a wealth of knowledge we can learn from. We also have family, friends, and colleagues, each with their own vast amount of experience and information. Many cultures pass down knowledge through storytelling and mentorship. Consider all the researchers who gain valuable insights by speaking with experts or everyday individuals who share their personal opinions and experiences. In addition to these personal connections, there are always the traditional research paths, which involve books, the internet, and libraries filled with resources in numerous academic fields. Learn to use all these resources and tools as an advantage. For example, if you are interviewing for a new job, whether it be creative as an artist, Department Head, or other, being prepared and doing your research ahead of time can give you an edge. A little bit of knowledge can make all the difference when forging new working relationships. If you learn about the project and the people interviewing you, it can give you discussion points and something to bond over. Collaboration and friendship can be one of the easiest and fun ways of doing research. Share your vision and ask for feedback. Before conducting any formal testing, take out your various products or tools, experiment with them, try different combinations, and practice freely. Many inventors have come up with new creations by simply blending bits of research from different areas and applying them in non-traditional ways. Brainstorm with your colleagues or team and explore innovative new ways to bring your vision to fruition. Once you have completed your research and accomplished your goals, remember to cite your sources and give credit to those who have contributed. This not only acknowledges the original contributors but also helps others who are trying to gather research on the same or similar subjects. Even a simple reference as to where you obtained the information can make it easier for the next researcher to find and build upon that knowledge. It is also a nice way to keep collaborations open and pass on knowledge, so special skills are not lost. Julie Socash President Research is the bridge between imagination and execution. Whether you're preparing for a film, designing a character, or interviewing for a job, mastering the art of research empowers you to learn and create with confidence and expertise. There is very little that can't be learned quickly when you know how to research properly. In fact, once you master the art of research, the whole process of learning and executing can be far more efficient. When it comes to any subject, the possibilities are limitless as to what can be created once you've gathered all the necessary pieces of information. Just as any good recipe combines ingredients to create a dish, research works the same way. By drawing knowledge from various sources and incorporating them, this mixture gives you the tools to create anything you envision. Preparation is key when starting a new project or job. Research plays a crucial role in ensuring success in any endeavor. Just as a surgeon consults and runs tests before surgery and an attorney prepares for trial by researching the facts and the law, we as artists must also prepare before beginning any film, television, or theater project. Even for smaller jobs, gathering information helps you know what to pack in your kit, location, and appropriate dress so you can show up equipped and ready. There are a series of steps that can help simplify the process of organizing and achieving your goals. If you're tackling a large project or plan that may take time or involve many components, it is a good idea to pause and research each step individually. If you're unsure where to begin, there are many strategies to choose from, and if one approach doesn't work, there are plenty of others that can lead you to the same destination. You have the power to build your own roadmap and likely have a vision of the desired outcome. Even if the full picture isn't clear, you can often visualize certain parts. One effective idea is to start with your end goal and work backward. If your research leads to a dead end or goes offtrack, you can always pivot and explore a new direction or simply start over and try a different path. The beauty of research lies in its endless possibilities—the countless sources of knowledge and the many different ways to learn. As Albert Einstein famously said, "If we knew what it was we were doing, it would not be called research, would it?" Don't be afraid of failure or making mistakes. Keep going until you either achieve your goal or discover an alternative solution. Sometimes coming up with something new or different can be better and even beyond your original expectations. There are many resources at our disposal. In FROM THE PRESIDENT " Research: the distance between an idea and its realization." –David Sarnoff Julie So ca sh Managing Editor Adam Brandy Contributing Writers Ciara Adise Bangle Brian Badie Adam Brandy Ken Diaz Alexei Dmitriew Claire Alexandra Doyle Cheryl Eckert Camille Friend Lane Friedman Kazu Hiro Jani Kleinbard Patrice K. Madrigal Donald Mowat John Rizzo Siân Richards Julie Socash Arjen Tuiten Torsten Witte Publisher IngleDodd Media Office Manager Linda Flores Mailing List Manager Linda Flores The Artisan is published quarterly by Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists, I.A.T.S.E. Local 706, 828 No. Hollywood Way, Burbank, CA 91505 Phone (818) 295-3933 Fax (818) 295-3930 All editorial and photo submissions should be sent to email address: hllywdmkupartist@yahoo.com To update member information, email to: dispatch@ialocal706.org Advertising: IngleDodd Media (310) 207-4410 muahs@IngleDodd.com www.IngleDoddMedia.com Officers of I.A.T.S.E. Local 706 President Julie Socash Vice President Elena Arroy Recording Secretary Porshawna Mosely Secretary-Treasurer Leslie Devlin Sergeant-at-Arms Sherrita Cole Business Representative Cheryl Eckert Official Magazine of Hollywood Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists. Published in the Interest of ALL the Members of Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists I.A.T.S.E. Local 706