Welcome to Artistry Ave
Kala Kannisto- Professional Makeup Artist
Artistry Ave
In 2016, Kala saw an episode of Face Off, a SYFY creature creation competition show. Something magical happened inside her and her creative makeup spark was ignited! As a former theatre major and competition dancer, makeup had always been a fun part of her life but seeing this show made a career applying makeup for stage and film feel like a real possibility.
First experimenting with face painting for children, she then began with illusion and creative character makeup on herself as a hobby to keep busy during the Covid-19 pandemic, posting on her Instagram page, @ArtistryAveCHS. Post pandemic she began doing wedding makeup for friends and stage makeup for local dance productions.
Fast forward to 2024 and Kala has studied for two weeks in Los Angeles under 3 time Oscar winning makeup artist Ve Neill (Hunger Games, Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice), Emmy awarding winning makeup artist Debbie Zoller (A Star is Born, Pitch Perfect) and Academy Award nominated makeup artist Eryn Krueger Mekash (Fabelmans, American Horror Story). She has also applied makeup for independent feature films, several short films, commercials, live TV and theatrical productions. She is currently being mentored by Emmy and BAFTA nominated makeup artist Naomi Bakstad after being chosen for the the Last Looks Podcast mentorship program. Her work has been featured on the cover of Charleston Living Magazine, The Charleston City Paper, SC Voyager Magazine, FOXNews and Shoutout South Carolina.
Kala Kannisto
She loves applying and painting prosthetics, playing with manipulating light and shadow through contouring, working with vivid colors, making makeup look invisible and most of all, as a natural extrovert, working with others in interesting environments. Along with applying makeup, Kala also has a background in education, teaching children and adults. She enjoys using this skill set to spread compassion and educate others in makeup application. She loves helping others feel beautiful and creating unique experiences through makeup!
THE MISSION
The mission of Artistry Ave is to provide exceptional makeup services where it is most convenient for you. Whether on a set, in a theatre, in a photography studio or your home, allow Kala to help make your makeup dreams a reality!
Services
SpFX Makeup
Beauty Makeup
Creative Makeup
Testimonials
“Every morning when I sat in Kala’s chair on the set of American Deadbolt, she had the best energy. It was the best way to start the day. She helped my character come to life and I hope we get to work together again.”
-Jade Fernandez, Actress
“Working with Kala is a dream! She has done both character and beauty makeup for photoshoots and it is always a blast. She does research ahead of time and always comes prepared with ideas, inspiration and tools so she can work her magic. When I’m sitting in the chair getting makeup done, I feel comfortable and at ease and she explains what she’s doing and answers any questions I have. Some of the best days of the last few years have been makeup days with Kala, she is endlessly creative and talented! One of my favorite looks she did on me was a “bird of paradise”, complete with colorful feathers down my neck. I am always amazed how she can take an idea or have an inspiration photo and create a work of art on someone’s face. She’s also done beauty makeup for photoshoots and makes my skin look flawless and me look like a princess. She’s passionate and enthusiastic about what she does and it shines through all of her work.”
-Georgia Schrubbe, Dancer
My Rates
MAKEUP
-
Includes consult, skin preparation, and a dewy or matte natural or soft glam look. Perfect for every day makeup or headshots. Thermal hairstyle, braids or simple up do can be added on for an additional $50
$125
-
Basic makeup offerings elevated with vibrant colors, cut creases, appliques, rhinestones, glitter lip etc. Great for special events or creative photography. Thermal styles, simple updo or braids can be added on for an additional $50.
$150
-
Includes consult, research time, skin preparation, face paint and any painted effects, remover included. Awesome for Halloween!.
$150+
-
$100
Includes prosthetic application in addition to character makeup and kit fee for all materials used to apply. Clients must purchase prosthetics ahead of time on their own. After 3 hours of work, price increases $50 every hour until completion.
-
email artistryavecharleston@gmail.com for quote or click “book now” for current class offerings on Vagaro
-
Please email artistryavecharleston@gmail.com for quote
MAKEUP 1 ON 1
-
Review your skin care and beauty routine with a professional makeup artist! You will receive personalized tips and tricks, color suggestions plus a step by step demo in your home using your own products.
$130 Special New Year Price
-
Overwhelmed at the makeup store? After a quick consultation, Artistry Ave will make you a personalized list of products to achieve the look you want.
$80
EXTRAS
-
Email for quote
-
$15
-
$1 a mile after 20 miles
Let Artistry Ave help your creative dreams come to life with specialized makeup! Witness the childlike fun of adding color, character, and artistic flair for your next Halloween party or photography project.
My favorite place to work is backstage or on set! I always arrive early to insure my space is set up and ready for my actors before they arrive. I like to provide a calm and comfortable space and work quickly. My philosophy is that my job should be done before the actor is on camera and I do my best to ensure longevity of makeup so that as little touch ups as possible are needed. I like to do testing and research ahead of time so I’m prepared and have an accurate estimate of how long makeup will take. I love working on a team and helping the director’s vision come to life!
