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Beauty interview with Catalina Sartor, the make-up artist for Arca and Caroline Polachek
The Argentinian make-up artist based in Paris Catalina Sartor creates an intense work with an extremely polished aesthetic. After recently designing singer Arca’s make up during her stunning performance at the Bourse de Commerce in march 2024, Catalina Sartor opens up to Numéro about her passion, her rise in the industry, and reflects on her most memorable experiences.
Text by Louise Menard.
Interview by Léa Zetlaoui.
In her early years, Catalina Sartor didn’t envision herself as a make-up artist but rather as a professional skater, rolling through her hometown of Buenos Aires. Then, the fascinating world of beauty opened up to the young teenager, who decided to fully commit to it by moving to Barcelona, where she shaped her artistic universe filled with both powerful and strange imagery.
Over the years, she has managed to captivate young designers like Mats Rombaut (with whom she collaborated for his latest show in June 2024) as well as huge stars such as singers Arca, Caroline Polachek, Rosalía, and Björk. Catalina Sartor now stands out for her eclectic art with a dark and glamorous aesthetic.
From glossy textures to bold eyeliners, bloody lips, and skin sometimes marked with scars, bruises, or tattoos, her work—rooted in her mastery of special effects—is inspired by an iconography that draws from vampires, aliens, and other extraordinary creatures…
Interview with make-up artist Catalina Sartor
Numéro: How did your passion for make-up come about?
Catalina Sartor: Well, I grew up gliding through life as an artistic roller skater which helped me develop my sense of glamour from an early age, as I always had to look my best. Even then, it was clear to me that art was my calling. I ventured then into the world of performance, exploring all its thrilling possibilities. But it wasn’t until I turned 18 that I decided to take my artistic skills to the next level. That’s when I embarked on my journey as a make-up artist. And oh my god! I stumbled upon a whole new universe of textures, colors, and groundbreaking techniques! It was like unlocking an infinite well of creativity within a single discipline. I mean, how could anyone resist falling in love with this magical realm of self-expression?
When did you decide to become a make-up artist?
After completing my studies in Argentina, I made the bold decision to move to Europe, and that’s when my professional journey truly began. It has been a thrilling ride, filled with countless opportunities that have allowed me to grow and thrive in this industry that has become my full-time passion. Whether it’s perfecting my skills or keeping abreast of the latest trends, every day is an opportunity for me to evolve in my profession. Now I’m ready to leave my mark on the world, one brushstroke at a time.
How would you describe your style as a make-up artist?
I try to use my technique to develop conceptual looks that convey my emotions. Naturally, this leads me to adopt a dark, feminine aesthetic, often described as elegant and minimalist. Whilst adding a touch of fantasy, particularly with post-apocalyptic creatures, I feel drawn to the state of mind of our generation, who believes that the world is on the brink of collapse. As a deeply spiritual and optimistic person, I use my art as a way of sharing the complexity of the human experience.
Which encounter had the greatest impact on you since you started?
It’s definitely one of my most recent experiences. Doing Arca‘s glam for her solo piano show at the Bourse de Commerce was a huge highlight for me. It was a three-day experience during which I not only had the pleasure of creating a stunning look for her, but also had the opportunity to witness her spellbinding performance in an intimate setting. And to top it all off, I had the privilege of hearing her share her journey and her unique point of view on art in various interviews. In addition to this meeting, I had the chance to meet some inspiring designers and, cherry on the cake, I had the incredible opportunity to chat with Björk backstage, before seeing these two icons perform together. That moment changed the course of my career and had a lasting impact on my personal life.
What are your favorite make-ups?
Heart shaped scar, the make-up of the singer Sevdaliza that I did for Numéro, but also Statue body art, Foot step and most of my glams for Caroline Polachek.
What is your skin care/make-up routine?
I start by cleansing and moisturising my face. One of my favourite things to do is to highlight my eyes with black eyeliner along the waterline, followed by a subtle brown smokey eye that I do with my fingertips. If I feel like adding an extra touch, I apply a metallic pigment on top for a glamorous effect. And of course, lots of mascara to complete the look. Whatever the time of day or how tired I am, every evening I make sure I remove my make-up and pamper my skin with a nourishing night serum. This routine not only helps me feel fresh and ready to face the day, it also allows me to express my personality.
Catalina Sartor’s 5 best products
Catalina Sartor: It’s hard to highlight just five products… For me, MAC’s Studio Radiance Face and Body Foundation is truly a must-have. This product offers a wide range of shades, so everyone can find the colour that suits them, and thanks to its malleable formula, I can mix it with heavier concealers or strobing creams to get exactly what I want. It’s like a magic wand that helps me create a flawless canvas for any occasion.
I also have to mention Benefit’s Precisely, My Brow pencil. It’s my favourite. The key is to draw hair-like strokes with a pencil that matches the colour of your eyebrows. Blonde, taupe and dark brown are my three favourites.
When it comes to lips, I love Dior’s Rouge Forever Liquid. Not only does this gorgeous product offer long-lasting hold, but it also has a fabulous glossy effect that keeps lips looking fresh and radiant for hours! It’s like a secret weapon that adds the perfect touch of glamour and allure to any make-up look. Believe me, once you’ve tried it, you won’t be able to live without it!
Ellis Faas Blush S304 is also a must-have in my beauty kit as it manages to create that perfect shade that suits a wide range of face shapes, and effortlessly enhances natural beauty.
Finally, one of my favourite moments to complete a glam look is the application of illuminator. We all love those illuminated cheekbones that give make-up a touch of freshness and health, as if it were radiating naturally from our skin. For this, my go-to product is Pat McGrath’s Skin Fetish, Highlighter as it manages to create the perfect glow and adds a touch of ethereal beauty to any face.
