image by Genna Yussman Greene/Absolute Studio

PAINTED LOVE

Matthew Tyldesley November 9, 2020

Inspiration can come from anywhere and ideas can pop randomly in my head at any given time. It was during shift doing hair where a former boss (Charles Robinson) discussed he was going to Sam’s Club to get salon cleaning supplies. I had asked him to get me some Libman cloth mop heads and he gladly obliged and he returned later that week with a three pack.

Behind the lens with Genna and on set with models, Rilley & Kimberly

I wanted to eventually do some wigs using them but they ended up staying in a closet in my hair room for almost four years. As with a lot or projects they don’t always happen immediately. Work schedules, travel, Prep time and everyone’s schedules play factors when creating photoshoots.

it was last summer that I had embarked on several creative photoshoots with Genna Yussman Greene of Absolute Studio in Louisville, Kentucky. During one of our lengthy creative phone conversation with Genna that we discussed doing a fun “colorful” photoshoot inspired by bright colors, bold textures, fantasy, graffiti art. I had been holding onto the pack of floor mops for years that I wanted to make wigs. Remembering this I couldn’t wait to tell Genna about my idea. She loved the idea and was in the process of designing a tie-dye gown for a female model. Suddenly our ideas had materialized and we started working on our designs for this project.

I spent a few weeks prepping the wigs into mops after work and on my off days. Cutting pieces from each mop unveiling fun, avant garde hairstyles. To color the wigs I used canned hair color spray in various bright colors. I overlapped the colors and made stencils from cardboard to shield over the wigs as I layered the different colors onto each piece. This was one of the few projects where I would be doing hair but would not need hairspray.

For this project we decided to book two models from out of state. We had in the past worked with Cincinnati, and Atlanta models, Kimberly Baur and Jacob Rilley. We booked hotel rooms for the models and they drove in the night before. Scheduling can sometimes be a challenge and I was not able to book any of my make up artist friends. Luckily I have experience doing make up and have watch several of my peers doing make up to know what I’m doing. This would be an opportunity to exercise my skills as both a make up artist and hairstylist.

Both models were a breeze to work with with high energy and good direction taking. Both had a career that included dance as well as several runway and hair show experience. I spent a total of three hours of prepping the models. I braided both Kimberly and Rilley’s hair up so the mops would become their hair and I could easily start working on their make up. I used various color palettes and creams using different make up brushes turning both models into colorful masterpieces.

I even had time to polish both model’s nail using various colors then all I had left to do was place their wigs on top their heads. Genna would then dress them and we used various locations at the studio. It was a very hot August day… bless both models for wearing the wigs in wardrobe in full make up. We spent a total of eight hours from start to finish. I alternated hairstyles twice as did Genna with wardrobe and she photographed them in studio and outside. We used colorful props such as marbled balloons, paint brushes and a mask.

The images turned out beautiful and was one of the last projects we got to work on before the covid shutdown. We submitted the collection during quarantine and it was published in a lovely spread in Volant Magazine in June 2020. We were so grateful for the publishing as everyone worked so hard on this project.

Genna and I miss doing photoshoots and we look forward to a time when things can return to normal. Covid has changed everything and that’s okay… as I believe down time is a way to create new ideas, to be re-inspired and to work on other projects. Above all it’s also about being happy and healthy and spending time with the ones you love. Thanks for reading and see you next time.

xoxoxo Matt

Credits

Photography/Wardrobe: Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Hair/Make Up: Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Models:

Kimberly Baur @iamkimberlybaur

Rilley Jacob @rilleyjacob

8x5x11 jpgcp.jpg — image by Genna Yussman Greene/Absolute Studio

The making of “Painted Love”

INDIAN SUMMER

Matthew Tyldesley September 14, 2020

My dear friend, Genna always says about all our creative projects “Everything we do is a production”. She is correct. Having lots of experience after doing editorial work for decade I can say if you’re going to do a photoshoot, photograph enough content to tell a story and to create a collection. As was the case when Genna mentioned wanting to do a indian inspired photoshoot..

I knew Genna and I would have a lot of prep as far as location scouting and I would be responsible for helping to assemble a team. We both posted model calls on social media requesting models that would be interested in this concept.

Genna had been compiling textiles, fabrics and wardrobe and accessories but would need a stylist to oversea and configure the wardrobe for each model chosen. Genna contacted stylist, Fitz Fitzpatrick to be the wardrobe stylist that would be responsible for curating these looks. I contacted artist, Danielle Toller-Goldring to create the make up for each model. Genna would be behind the lens, me on hair and Cyndi Snow would be assisting us on set.

I created a vision board for both hair and make up to help inspire both Danielle and I. We booked three regional models from the state. We were happy to book three local regional models whom would become our muses. We love diversity with our collections and booked models, Dezaray Nicks, Dakota Bruton and Emily Marie .

Each modeled brought a different element to the production. Exuding both beauty and strength each model had a unique style and wardrobe selected through out the day. We arrived early on location to prep the models at Absolute Studio in Louisville, KY. Models arrived at different intervals. As models arrived Fitz started selecting wardrobe fittings prior to sending them to hair and make up. Make up and hair prep took up the three hours with the models rotating between Danielle, Fitz and me for hair. After hair and make up models were sent to wardrobe to dress.

Meanwhile Genna and Cyndi were readying her cameras and lens along with packing a travel kit for an on location shoots on the sides streets of Frankfort Avenue. Once the models were ready Genna and Fitz would take some or all of the models and transport them on location. The team would rotate back and fourth to the location for photographing then back to Absolute Studio to change. This would allow the models breaks to cool down and hydrate/snack as well as light hair changes and make up touch ups.

The day was very, long twelve hour day but we knew the results were worth everything we did. This team did a stellar job and everyone brought their talents and dedication to this project. For hair I did a variety of long hairstyles including braids and fishtails. On scalp braids (cornrows) andcustom extensions. I did a lot of blow drying and straightening for each models. I used custom wigs on model Dezaray and added embellishments to each of of the model’s hairstyles.

Several weeks had past after the photoshoot and Genna was selecting and editing images. It was then that we were plague by Covid-19. Everything was shut down and we were all home bound with no work or photoshoots in the near future. This time gave Genna ample to time to finish editing the images that she would send to me to submit for publication.

After a couple days I received an email from the editors of Imirage Magazine, who wanted to publish the images. “Indian Summer” was published in the May 2020 issue in a six page spread highlighting all of our hard work during quarantine. Thank you to Imirage magazine for the feature. Thank you to the entire team and to the models for bringing this vision to life. We were fortunate to see our work see the light of day. Everything happens for a reason and this was definitely meant to be.

Credits

Photography: Genna Yussman Greene/ Absolute Studio @gennayussman

Wardrobe Stylist: Fitz Fitzergerald @ritzy_fitzy

Make Up: Danielle Toller Goldring @tailoredbytoller

Hair: Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Assistant: Cyndi Snow @x2cgirl

Models:

Dezaray Nicks @dezaraynicks

Dakota Bruton @dakota_bruton

Emily Marie @xxemilymarie

The Making of Indian Summer

Image Genna Yussman Greene/Property of Absolute Studio, Louisville, KY

CRIMSON EQUINE

Matthew Tyldesley July 14, 2020

Amazing ideas and opportunities can happen anywhere and at anytime.It was during a hair appointment last summer my client, Diane Moore suggested I along with Photographer Genna Yussman Greene do a photoshoots involving her horses. I instantly loved the ideas and later that week phoned Genna to share my conversation I had with Diane about working with the horse and she loved the idea. Genna had been preparing a collection of Latin/Spanish clothing in Red and Black hues in various textures and fabrics. Reworking vintage fashions, textiles. She was even making some elaborate dresses with long trains on her sewing machines.

As with all our shoots, Genna and I generally overshoot with several models and we originally only planned on four models but the shoot evolved to be three times as many models and two make up artists. I contacted Lexington, Mua, Portia Greene and Louisville, Mua, Jace Race to do make up for a total of eight models.

Booking models is a tedious process, I used social media to do a model call of which can be hit or miss with responses. The process of messaging back models and writing/rewriting details is a lengthy and time comsuming process and sometimes a “cat and mouse” experience to make sure models read all notes and give confirmation back. Sometimes several models come out of the woodwork and then sometimes very few respond back. We will tend to work with some of the same models and include new models and I will invite some clients who may be interested. My biggest key is to select models that will pair nicely together especially for cohesiveness when your trying to tell a story. For maximize content, Genna and I create multiple looks on all models with the team to have enough material to work with post shooting.

Photo Jul 12, 10 00 22 AM.jpg — Selfie with Diane

As with anything unexpected challenges arise, after weeks of planning a day before we had to make the call to cancel the shoot due to a storm. Bummer, but we reset the shoot a few weeks after that. Of course we could not retain all the models as it was back to school season for some of the college/highschool models. We overbooked the shoot because we know the day of some models won’t be able to show up. This is typical within the industry and I’ve encountered at every show/shoot at some time in my career. Prepare for the unexpected…amazing things happen when you least expect them too. You just roll with it.

We travelled to Harrodsburg, Kentucky about and hour from Louisville, KY on a very hot day. We weathered the heat with an amazing team for 14 hours in the beautiful countryside of Kentucky with beautiful horses. We were fortunate to have this collection published in Like A Lion Magazine during the quarantine in the May 2020 issue. It was wonderful seeing the release as this would have been the Derby season had it not been post poned due to quarantine. We felt this collection represented Kentucky’s love for horses and fashion with our own creativity.

In addition to booking talent, I had to create look boards for hair and makeup for each model and for both make up artists. I used Google/Pinterest images using key words that pertained to our theme. I knew I would need to keep hair simple, classy and elegant. For cohesiveness, I decided to make rose hair pieces for each model. I made varying pieces that I adorned each model’s hairstyle with. I had also prepped some wigs to help with timing.I also always keep wigs and extensions in my kit because some of the models recently cut their hair shorter than their headshots.

The day stared at 5 a.m. after my morning coffee, my tools were packed the previous night and my car loaded. I would be transporting any of the models that needed a ride if they arrived at my house that a.m. I had a cooler packed with beverages and bag full of snacks for us to have on location for the models and we would work out details for lunch. We arrived on set at the horse farm and was greeted by Diane and her daughter, Kara. We set up two tents to house the models to protect us from the bright rays of the sun. We had tables for the make up and hair set and we set up wardrobe in one of the barns for the models to dress.

We did a quick meeting with the team to go over expectations of the day and how the flow of the shoot would work. Models were staggered hourly to arrive at different intervals to keep the flow and to prevent models from sitting to long in hair and make up. Genna had scouted out areas with Diane on location as we prepared models. Genna and the assistant would take groups of models that were ready on location as we prepared the next set of models that arrived on location.

Each model wore 2-4 looks a piece complete with accessories and minimal hair changes and make up touch ups. It was a pizza kind of day as you never know what will be available but fortunately there was a pizzeria very close to where we were working.

For Megan’s Hair, I used hair extensions to add density and large hair pad to create this classic shape. Using hairspray to slick back her hair with a center part and hair pins. Heavy shine spray to reflect off her gorgeous hair color.

For model Stephanie I actually used to different custom wigs to give her an alternate look. I prepared a blonde braided wig for texture and a sleek black wig. It totally changed up her look and was convenient to have already prepared with the timing allotted for each model.

For model Braden I slick his hair backed with a Denman brush and a round brush for volume. Set his length on top with a large iron and back combed with hairspray for this classic pompadour. This was his very first shoot and I’m sure it won’t be his last.

For Model Ariana I fishtailed half braids around her entire head except the center of which I backcombed and formed over a pinned hair pad. Afterwards I strategically placed all the braids over the pad and pinned them into place. I loved the some texture from the fishtails that blew in the soft breeze.

Model, Dakota has very lovely and extremely lengthy hair. I would give her a center part with two large fishtails of which I would stretch out to expose a soft wispy texture.

In addition to the models, the horses were the true stars. Along with Diane’s horses their were lovely horse scattered through the location that were friendly and happy to have their photos taken. Gentle giants with beautiful hair. This was an amazing opportunity for everyone involved.

For model, Christie I set her hair on top with a large iron and teased it into this half up do. I left her bangs out an curled the ponytail.

All the assistants on set did a fabulous job, Diane, Kara, Brandy and Love helped transporting, directing models, carrying and dressing models, getting food and hold up camera gear for Genna and managing the horses. Love also modeled having dual roles on set. I added a custom ponytail to her slicked back hair for a classic look.

I had the entire next day off as I needed the rest, unpack my car and prepare for a busy week in the salon. Genna and the make up artists had worked so very hard as did all the models. Everyone had worked so very hard on set. The shoot was so busy but I did get the opportunity to ride on one of the horses.

After the photoshoot Genna and I spent time selecting photos for the collection and she started preparing and editing them for submission. We were so happy to see “Crimson Equine” published in Like A Lion Magazine. Everyone’s hard work paid off and it was nice to see this released during quarantine shut down. I love this gorgeous and colorful collection. The beauty of fashion, hair and make up and the beauty that everyone brings to the table.

A Special thanks to everyone involved. A big thank you to Diane More and Kara Percle for hosting us and the privilege to work with her amazing horses. To Genna Yussman Yussman for your constant creativity.

Credits

Photograpy /Wardrobe/ Creative Direction: Genna Yussman Greene

Photographer’s Assistants: Kara Percle, Love Yascone, Brandie Perry

Hair: Matthew Tyldesley

Make Up: Portia Greene and Jace Race

Location/Horses: Diane Moore

Models: Margarita Karasjaka, Megan Amanda, Stephanie Lynn Johnson, Braden Marble, Ariana Johnson, Dakota Bruton, Christie Perez, Love Yascone

The making of “Crimson Equine”

MOD MOODS

Matthew Tyldesley June 22, 2020

The 1960’s are alive and well in Louisville, Kentucky at Absolute Studio. This retro inspired collection was photographed at Absolute Studio here in town. Team members Genna Yussman Greene and I love dabbling in vintage theme photoshoots incorporating our own flair and some modern artistry to give the photoshoot our own signature flavor. We invited in local body painter and mua, Matt Goodlett.

Never one to stifle anyone’s creative, both Genna and I created a diverse vision board and gave free range to all the artists involved in this collaboration to bring their own artistry to the table. I really enjoy working with different artists as I feel this helps to elevate ones work.

Scheduling is probably the most challenging aspect of photoshoots. We were doing this pre Christmas so the season was already in full boom in our respective careers and the models window of opportunity was short with the impending holiday. We book four models from the region. I enjoy working with models that I have rapport with from past projects but I also love working with new models. We had a great set of young ladies who more than brought the drama for the camera lens.

Of course a lot of prep work is required to execute a stellar photoshoot. Week going into planning as well as a lot of communication to ensure everyone involved understand their roles. Genna spent a lot of time curating the vintage wardrobe collection as well as finding the right accessories and props. I spend a lot of time making two custom wigs for this collection. Hand sewn, cut and styled. I love the transformation of the models using wigs and hairpieces. In addition this would also help with timing as I would have four models I was responsible for doing hair for and having the wigs done in advanced helps big time. Models Alicia and Lucy would wear the custom wigs.

The shoot which took place at the studio was a cold December and we spent the entire day prepping the models, styling them and photographing them in various hairstyles, makeup and wardrobe changes. Matt created two unique make up styles. The first was very true to the 60’s with bright tones and dramatic liner. His second looks were more avante gard driven and included elaborate body painting on each of the girls.

Staying true to the 1960’s Matt painted lashes on all the models. I especially loved the white lipstick he painted on model Lucy’s lips for one of her looks. Cat eyes and winged eyeliner as well as heavily contrasting eyelids were done all on the models.

I kept the styles fairly sleek for each of the models and for Dakota I used custom clip in fringe.. I was channeling Cher for this look and used a straightening iron throughout her entire head of hair for a sleek finish.

For model Kelsey, I had to first set her hair by applying a volumizer and styling her hair to give it body and to smooth our her curls. I then reset her hair with a large curling iron of which I allowed to cool and set. Afterwards the hair was brushed out and lightly teased. I wanted that big 60’s volume. Very go-go girl. I especially love the glasses Genna paired Kelsey with for one of the images. It reminded me a lot of modern Tom Ford adds but with a sixties flavor.

Kelsey second look was quickly wrapped up in a french twist. Cyndi assisted Genna dressing all the models and prepping each set design.

Our collection, “Mod Moods” was published during quarantine in the April 2020 issue of Picton Magazine. I was so grateful to see this collection release. The entire team worked so hard and the models brought so much energy to the project. Thank you to Picton Magazine for the lovely spread.

Credits

Photography/Wardrobe: Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Hair/Video: Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Make Up: Matt Goodlett @mattgoodlettmakeup

Assistant: Cyndi Snow @x2cgirl

Models:

Alicia Antonia @aliciaantonia

Dakota Bruton @dakotabruton.model

Lucy Duane (Heyman Talent Agency) @lucyduane

Kelsey Straub @straubooty

Sirens of the Shallows

Matthew Tyldesley December 10, 2019

My creative mind seems to almost always be in overdrive. Even if I am not physically up to par you can believe I’m spending what energy I do have on artistic ideas. Like everyone deserves a vacation, I needed a much needed break from work behind the chair, work travel and photoshoots. In addition to being physically exhausted, I was also mentally worn out. I had an upcoming vacation planned to clear my mind and to give my body much needed rest. I had frequented New Smryna Beach, Florida with my husband Eric almost annually. We have skipped a year here and there but always return to this peaceful, low key beach town.

Last summer, Eric and I rented a beach house right on the shore. In the morning we would venture out with our dog Cupid and head straight for the beach. It was there laying after around after a few days. I had visualized a beauty collection I wanted to create when we returned home. Beautiful woman on the sand… The big inspiration came from my wet feet touching the sand when we were walking the shore. I love how small fragments of shell and rock would remind on my skin. I thought how beautiful this would look on the skin of models with gorgeous updos.

Images by Genna Yussman Greene / Absolute Studio

When I returned home from vacation, I started to story board my ideas to share with Genna Yussman Greene and Isidro Valencia. I would spend several hours practicing hairstyles on hair mannequins. I would then take photos with my camera to save for reference. I also spent a lot of time making custom hair extensions as I knew I would need a lot in a variety of different hues to compliment the models I would need to book.

I ended up booking four models from the region, Laura Kirkpatrick, Tyra Burton, Abbie Purdie and Katie Leigh Tarr. I needed models that had long necks and sharp features. I was so lucky with the girls that were confirmed for this project.

Each model took no less than four hours for hair and make up prep. The photoshoot was booked for two days exclusively at Absolute Studio . Each hairstyles was so technical requiring three hours. Model, Tyrah’s natural hair was first blown straight then ironed using Redken’s Iron Shape 11. Hair pad were used to create her asymmetrical mohawk. Hair pads were used on each models, including Laura who had two oblong hair pads to create her updo.

I used so much hair spray. Redken’s Fashion Works 12, Control Addict 28, Triple Take 32 to created these masterful hairstyles. I set the models hair with various curling irons ranging in different diameters to control the hair and to create volume. The use of hair extensions allowed for more density and to create some soft, color variations on each hairstyle.

Genna spent some time creating soft, “net” tops she constructed for each model. Isidro practiced the make up for the skin using spirit gum. We end up using super fine sand along with gold dust. The make up was clean and gorgeous with each model having a soft, youthful glow. The aquatic, summery, florida vibe was in full effect.

This photoshoot was two full days of work but the final outcome was worth all the sweat and tears. During the first day of shooting we were struck with a severe storm. We lost power temporarily and had to move electronics since water had started leaking in our studio. Without electricity I was freaking out because being a hairstylist requires a lot of heat styling. Fortunately after an hour, power was restored without issue and we resumed were we had left off.

Believing in Mermaids and Sirens, I decided to title the collection, “Sirens of the Shallows”. Originally pitched for competition I decided to try submission for publication. Our collection was picked up for print of the entire collection in the September 2019 beauty issue of Picton magazine. I was beyond happy with our collection and grateful to our team and thankful to Picton magazine for publishing our collection.

Credits

Models

Laura Kirkpatrick @laura_allstar

Tyra Burton @tyramonique

Abbie Purdie @abbiepurdie

Katie Leigh Tarr @kt_tarr

Photography | Styling | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Make Up | Isidro Valencia @valencia0612

Hair | Creative Direction | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

One aspects about photoshoots I truly love is that each one possess an amazing story. From start to finish there are challenges, discoveries and unexpected wins. The beauty from inspiration to end result is where the magic lies.The challenges we all had on set regarding the storm only made us work harder. I am grateful to all who collaborated on this beautiful collection.

BTS making of “Sirens”

Angelic

Matthew Tyldesley November 27, 2019

Collaboration and team work make the best photoshoots. I was asked by fashion photographer, Jessica Budnick to style hair one sunday last winter. It would be one model with make up by Ebony Campbell. I had the date open and was looking forward to working together.

Claudia Sheiderich was the model Jessica booked and it was her first photoshoot. No restrictions were given for hair or make up so it was up to Ebony and I to work off one another. I chose to work with the model’s natural texture and a bit of heat styling with a couple different curling irons.

I used Redken’s Guts 10 with a blowdryer and round brush to build some volume in Claudia’s hair. Afterwards I sectioned the hair and curled it with Sam Villa’s one inch curling iron setting with Redken’s Iron shape 11. once the hair cooled I brushed it out and lightly spray with Fashion Works 12 hairspray.

Another look involved converging the hair into a messy pony tail and leaving a lot of the hair around the face out. I would then use a very small marcel iron by Hot Tools and tightly coil that hair around the iron. I would then brush that hair out and on set we would use a blower to activate movement in the hair.

Jessica used the same sheet of foam fabric through out the entire shoot by altering it each time on the model. Ebony created several looks using pastel tones, matte shadows and blushes. A bold eye color with a natural, clean finish on claudia’s skin.

We spent several hours on that Sunday creating four looks on Claudia. After editing images, Jessica forwarded the images to me and I asked if I could submit them for publication. She of course said yes and I decided to submit to Ellements magazine. I had only been published once in their publication and I saw were I was making the deadline before the next issue was due out.

A few days later I received an email from Ellements magazine that they wanted to publish the collection in their next issue. I was beyond excited and knew it was meant to be.

“Angelic” was published in the May 2019 spring issue of Ellements magazine in a three page spread. The entire team was ecstatic.

Credits

Model Claudia Scheiderich @invubus

Photography / Styling | Jessica Budnick @jessicabudnickphoto

Make Up | Ebony Campbell @ebonycampbellbeauty

Hair | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

official BTS making of “Angelic”

Alluring Seduction

Matthew Tyldesley November 19, 2019

2019 IBI FInalist “Best Short Cut/Style”

I noticed my husband was watching episodes of “Star Trek: The Net Generation” on Netflix. I sat through a couple episodes and was instantly reminded of my youth growing up watching this gem in the early 90’s. What also inspired my were the short hairstyles on the woman aboard the enterprise and the Klingon woman who had edgy fringed haircuts fashioned in the 1990’s.

So naturally inspiration for a photoshoot developed and I started conjuring ideas for a collection. Inspired by the show and hair master, Vidal Sassoon I started working on several custom wigs. I could work on them in my spare time (Before work and after) and I could book any model since cutting their own hair would not be an issue with them or their agencies.

I used Redken hair color in varying shades and levels of Reds, Coppers and Violet-reds in both permanent and demi permanent colors. A lot of time was spent cutting the wigs. I created various geometric shapes and textured the wigs for the models. Removing weight and refining angles with shears, texture shears and trimmers.

The collection was photographed at Absolute Studio by Genna Yussman Greene. Genna also styled the collection in all black in varying textures and silhouettes She brought together several dress and blazers in leather, satin and matte textiles.. Isidro Valencia was responsible for the gorgeous make up. make up consisted of a smoky eye, soft lip hues and soft blush. He also did a little bit of contouring on each model and created dark, defined brows on each model for a high fashion finish.

The photoshoot lasted several hours on a hot summer day. Models were photographed separately and together with hair and make up prep taking upwards of two hours per model. I booked local talent, Katya Estes, Alexandra Hepfinger, Theresa Krosse and Alexis Fabish. I was able to cornrow on scalp all the model’s hair then I used Redken Hardware Gel 16 and spread thinly with a color brush around the models hairline to gather all tiny hair for control. Stocking caps were placed on top of the braids and the wigs were fitted on each model.

With refitting and the wigs having previously cut helped with timing. Now time was spent recutting fringes and refining angles. Cleaning up random hair and lightly irony each section for a clean, beveled finish. I really took my time to make sure each look supported and enhanced each of the model’s features. I am so grateful to this team for bringing the collection to life. Everyone was so passion about this entire project.

After the photoshoot was completed, Genna and I sorted through the images for our favorite image of each look on each model. We put the images together for submission and initially thought about competition then print of this one. After initial rejection I decided to submit the collection to Elegant Magazine. After less than a week after submitting I had heard back from the editor that they want to run with the collection in was published in a seven page spread in summer, June 2019 issue of Elegant Magazine.

With some encourage from Isidro, he urged me to enter some of my previous published work into the IBI 2019 awards. (International Beauty Industry Awards). So I decided right before the competition deadline to enter one of the images in the collection into the category for “Best Short Cut/Style”. Imagine to my surprise the image had made second place finalist for Best Short Cut/Style 2019. That was pretty awesome.

image by Genna Yussman Greene / Absolute Studio Finalist 2019 IBI awards “Best Short Cut/Style”

It amazing to see the legacy of a collection one puts so much heart and soul into. This collection started from simply watching a vintage, childhood program on Netflix that blossomed and morphed into it’s own with the love and support of the models and Isidro and Genna of Absolute Studio.

Credits

Models

Theresa Krosse | @theresa_krosse

Alexis Fabish | @alexisfabish

Katya Estes | @ekaterina_etes_katya

Alexandra Hepfinger | @alexandrahepfinger

Photography / Wardrobe | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Make Up | Isidro Valencia @valencia0612

Hair / Creative Director | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Assistant | Love Yascone | @love_yascone

BTS making of “Alluring Seduction”

2019 IBI Awards WINNER Best Braid Hairstyle

ARCADIA BLOOMS

Matthew Tyldesley November 4, 2019

Amazing concepts come from everywhere and at any time. About two summers ago I had thought about doing a hairstyling collection with braids inspired by my backyard pond and floral garden. The concept was in the early stages of development and I had shared the idea with my friend Genna Yussman Greene. I had a general direction for where I wanted to go for hairstyling but had not finalized what I was thinking for wardrobe or make up. I had put together a vision board with paper fashions and bold eye make up. I would have Genna do both the styling and the photography and Isidro Valencia for make up.

2019 IBI Award Finalist Best Undo/Upstyle“Arcadia Blooms” — 2019 IBI Award Finalist Best Undo/Upstyle
“Arcadia Blooms”

I spent two days practicing on my mannequins. Spending alot of time on them meant having sore hands and fingers. Blow drying long hair, practicing sectioning, various braids and braiding techniques. I used hair pads and lots of hairstyling products. I used hot tools, clips and lots of hairspray on these days. I took photos with my camera phone and sent to both Genna and Isidro. Genna sent me camera pics back of the wardrobe she was putting together. I was able to visualize the model’s face when I created the looks which made the day of the photoshoot easier to adapt the style to the models.

Our studio (Absolute Studio) was freezing in December and I staggered the models through out the day. Each model took over two-three hours per styling along with an hour of makeup. The girls turn up the heat for Genna while she took photos but we were all freezing. Fortunately the entire shoot was worth it at a whopping ten hour day plus an additional 6 hour day for the second day.

award winning Image IBI 2019 award winner. image by Genna Yussman Greene / Absolute Studio

I could not have asked for a better set of talented models. I booked Theresa Krosse, Chelsey Malm and Dakota Bruton. I had decided last minute along with Genna to introduce a fourth hairstyle and with that we added an additional shoot day and another model, Lucy Duane. Each look was very technical and showcased intricate braiding and long hairstyling and finishing. The make up Isidro created was bold and clean and really showcased the beauty of each model’s bone structure.

IBI 2019 Finalist / image by Genna Yussman Greene / Absolute Studio

Chelsey’s hairstyle consisted of a braided hair veil that draped the side of her face and formed from on scalp braids. I set her hair with a curling iron with the remainder of her hair. Afterwards the hair was backcombed, brushed and styled into shape.

Theresa’s look is all about texture. I created a lot of on scalp braids and a large fish tail on top of her head. The ends of the braids after securing with micro bands I wrapped them around large hair pins and heat styled them with a hair iron. This technique in the beauty industry is referred to as “Rick Racking”. Afterwards the hair was brushed out and sprayed with hairspray.

A lot of hairdressing went into each look. Hair was set on each model first using Redken’s Gut 10. Hair was braided using Water Wax, Braid Aid and set with the Sam Villa texture iron, straightening iron and marcel iron in some combination on the four models. Hairsprays of choice were Fashion Works 12, Control Addict 28 and Triple Dry 32.

lucy’s hairstyle included on scalp braids that curved the rounds of the head. I created a textured high ponytail I then brought across the top toward the face. I took the ends of the braid and secured them on top the ponytail and pulled the hair between the braids. I created a single braided rose on her left side. I used Water Wax on the braids for control and lots of shine. I liked the contrast of the textured, matte ponytail with the sleekness of her braids.

For Dakota’s hairstyle. I did a lot of ponytail on the back and sides of her head. I backcombed a large section and secured with pins. I did several fishtail braids that I fanned out and wrapped over the backcombed section. The front of her hair did on scalp braids and I formed the ends of the braids into flowers. You can see below how I changed my design from the mannequin prep day below.

Isidro convinced me to enter the 2019 IBI awards (International Beauty Industry Awards) I entered three of the looks. I found out on October 1st one of the images won the award for “Best Braided Styles” and a second image was named a finalist for, “Best Undo Hairstyle”. I could not believe it and was beyond thankful. Our team worked so hard.

The entire collection was submitted for publication and published in a four page spread in Feroce Magazine in the July 2019 issue. The collection had a snippet featured in the June 2019 of Beauty Launchpad magazine.

Models:

Theresa Krosse @theresa_krosse

Lucy Duane (Heyman Talent Agency) @lucyduane

Dakota Bruton @dakotabruton.model

Chelsey Malm (Tribe Management) @chelsey.malm

Photography | Wardrobe: Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Make Up: Isidro Valencia @valenciamakeup

Hair | Creative Direction: Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

official bts making of Arcadia Blooms

Midnight Noir

Matthew Tyldesley October 15, 2019

Since my days at beauty school, I have always enjoyed designing and coloring men’s hair. When it came to photoshoots I understood the vital role for not only woman but men to have exciting, beautiful hair that is relevant to the theme or concept. I always loved photoshoots that took the boundries of hair outside of just styling and actually cutting and coloring the model’s real hair.

Image by Genna Yussman Greene was named a finalist by the IBI 2019 Awards

I had an amazing vision for a men’s collection featuring an all white backdrop, white curtains and white mannequins. Some of the mannequins would be replaced with real male models but dressed in all black for extreme contrast. I shared my vision with photographer, Genna Yussman Greene of Absolute Studio and she loved the idea. She sent me online links to purchase the white curtains and white mannequin that was used for the collection.

For wardrobe I booked, Gunnar Deatherage and Isidro Valencia for Make up. I booked three local models that were open to idea of hair changes and liked my concept, David Farsetti, Jordan Estep and Connor Hessler.

This collection required two days; the first was was model prep. I scheduled all three models at different intervals. I focused more attention to the hair cutting using clippers, trimmers, shears and razors. To keep color simple, I chose to color each models hair dark. I used Redken’s Shades EQ glosses in different ratios of 01ab, 03n and 03v.

Jordan’s cut was the shortest. I clipper his hair, including his hairline. I also did lots of etching on his side using trimmers. I really liked the drama of his transformation. I went really dark with his color like David’s hair. To combat the course texture of Jordan’s hair. I used Hardware Gel 16 mixed with Argan 6 oil, high heat from the hairdryer and a Denman brush. Afterwards I used a small iron and Iron Shape 11 to further smooth his hair. Lastly I used Water Wax 03 to lightly mold his hair and to enhance overall shine.

For David, I wanted a heavy fringe with a heavy weight line to build shape. I liked the drama with the fringe I cut on him. Going darker really brought out his eye color and soften the yellow undertones in his skin. I used Redken’s Thickening Lotion 06 with a Denman brush and hair dryer to enhance shine and built some volume.

For Connor’s hair I chose a darkest brown for his hair color using the Shades EQ. I went really dramatic with gemometic lines on his sides with minimal texturizing on his crown. I used Redken’s Full Frame 07 with Denman brush and hairdryer. I used a little Rough Paste 12 to bring out some texture in his hair after blow drying.

Prep day lasted about seven hours. The following day was one of the coldest in December prior to shooting before Christmas. It was also the last photoshoot with Gunnar Deatherage before he relocated to Los Angeles as well as one of our first collections from Absolute Studio. We spent about 8 hours the entire day. Models took about two hours each to complete hairstyling, make up and wardrobe.

We completed two look on each mode that consisted of slightly different hairstyling and different wardrobe. Isidro created a sultry look with a smoky eye, contoured cheeks and faux facial piercings from Gunnar.

tools of the trade **I love Sam Villa Shears

Genna Photographed and edited this collection that was published in the Spring 2019 issue of Obscurae Magazine. In addition, one of the images was named a 2019 finalist by the International Beauty Industry Awards (IBI Awards).

celebrating wins with a copy of Obscurae Magazine

alternate look #2 on Connor, Finger wave profile

Credits:

Photography | Set | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Hair | Creative Direction | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Wardrobe | Styling | Gunnar Deatherage @gunnardeatherage

Make Up | Isidro Valencia @valencia0612

Models:

David Farsetti (Heyman Talent Agency)

Connor Hessler

Jordan Estep

official making of Midnight Noir

on set with Genna, Micah and “Alice” (Olive)

Wonderland Holiday

Matthew Tyldesley September 10, 2019

I’ve always had an infinity for fantasy and childhood tales…one of the fables that always comes to mind is Lewis Carol’s “Alice In Wonderland” & “Through the Looking Glass”. The inspiration for this collection was fueled by my imagination to reimagined the classic fairytale.

I wanted to create more of an avant garde interpretation and chose only a few of the standout characters to develop for this collection. The obvious selections, Alice and the Queen of hearts and I chose to do the Mad Hatter.

hair prep, Alice’s headers and custom earrings

Of course I enlisted the help of Genna Yussman Greene at our studio, Absolute Studio. She would curate the wardrobe as well as doing photography and Micah Severo would be the make up artist for this collection.

Of course preparation for this took a very long time; several months and several purchases of hair extensions from Ebonyline and Doctored locks with various lengths but I got a great deal on 22 inch hair extensions.

The hair took 6 month to prepare as I had a full schedule of traveling for shows and taking care of my clientele behind the chair. I would have to order several lots of hair extenisons wait for them to arrive.

I had to color all the hair prior to using them. They had to dry and be styled and I made from three front lace wigs all hand sewn. Top hair pieces that would adorn each model and wanted to take it to another level by fabricating matching earrings made of hair that would be worn by each model.

Lots of money was spent on hair and materials. I fabricated a metal base for the Queen of hearts. I would take large sheets of red hair and cut and roll them into roses. I mixed variations of red hues to layer and to show off the texture of the hair.

it’s all in the details…it’s all about the hair

Rachel’s I mean, “Mad Hattresses” big close up

I decided I wanted to book a female model of the Mad hatter/ Mad Hattress. For her hair I created a long black front lace wig of which I colored large panels of violet and blue. I again fabricated hair “Mats” by using Redken’s Control Addict 28 and an iron to fuse the hair together. Afterwards hair was cut into squares on which I made a patchwork hat using a active mesh base. Very lightweight but strong enough to support the shape of her hat. I also rolled hair like I had done on the Queens hair and layered them around the rim of the hat.

For Alice I created a blonde wig with bright yellow panels and a created this huge flower-like piece that was made from custom yellow mat hair. Folding and glueing the piece like an accordian. I played around with the yellow pigment to get variations in tonality.

The earrings were a lot of fun, tedious and required a lot of time and patients. I twist wrapped kanekalon hair around florist wire using a hot glue gun. After the pieces were done I shaped them and hand sewn them together to become pairs of earrings for each model to wear.

I’m obsessed with the wardrobe Genna put together. Dark hues with bright tones and brooches, textiles and safety pins were added to each model. She made sure to layer texture and distinction of each character quite obvious.

It’s all in the details. Discussing make up with Micah

We photographed each model on dark, velvet backdrops with props for a darker vibe. Cincinnati, make up artist Micah did beautiful, clean makeup. I love the bee stung lips he did on the queen of hearts.

For model selection I booked Olive Flick of Heyman Talent Agency to play Alice, Margarita Karizskaja to play the queen of hearts and Rachel Madison to portray the Mad Hattress.

The shoot took all day of ten hours and very cold as we were working in the month of December. Everyone did a fabulous job of transforming all the models into the characters.

All about the make up with Rachel and Micah

We were honored to have this collection in six page spread in the limited edition, hard copy holiday collection in Faddy Magazine in Italy. When I received my copy in the mail I had cried…I hadn’t seen our work in that format. After all the work, time and money this collection required it was all worth it seeing it in print. I am so grateful to this team.

Credits

Models:

Olive Flick (Heyman Talent Agency) @oliveflick

Margarita Karizskaja @margarita_karizskaja

Rachel Madison @officialrachelmadison

Hair / Creative Direction / Earrings | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Photography / Wardrobe / Set | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Make Up | Micah Severo @micahsevero

Assistant | Tony Welscher

Official making of video for “Wonderland Holiday”

Shock Menagerie

Matthew Tyldesley August 22, 2019

Last summer, I was asked by make up artist Rebecca Rhodes to create a wig that would adorn her model for a make up competition of which she was entering. I willingly agreed to create a black and yellow avant grade wig for her to use during her live competition.

She was thrilled with the piece I had created and I delivered it to her at the Galt House downtown louisville for the live competition, “Battle of the Brushes”. I had mentioned to her possibly do a collabo with lots of color and several models.

The next day I found out she had won second place at “Battle of the Brushes” with her amazing makeup on her model, Katya. I quickly messaged her to congratulate her on her win and again suggested we do a collection and she agreed.

At “Battle of the Brushes” with model, Katya and Make up artist, Rebecca

I had contacted my team at Absolute Studio, Genna Yussman Greene and one his last collections, Tony Welscher to be part of this exciting collaboration.

of course, a shoot takes planning so I needed a few weeks to fabricate the details and map out the plans. I do a lot of bookings but this time I left that job to Rebecca. With she booked Katie Leigh Tarr, Lucy Duane and Rebecca Bien and modeled herself as the fourth model.

For the hair I wanted bold contrast, Primary colors and black. I would again use the black and yellow wig from the competition as one of the pieces. I got to really play and experiment; my materials for this included Kanekalon hair, yarn, rubber covered wiring and wig mesh. I loved layering the textures and used cut wig mesh that I woven hair extensions through. The hair became quite pliable and would be easy to form on the models.

Another wig had me sewing wig mesh into a tubular shape of which I later stuff with red and blue kanekalon hair. Repeating the same technique with the crochet hook for the bulk of the surface.

Genna provided black tops and a really cool futuristic shoulder piece along with matching armor bands that we rotated on each of the models.

I decided for one of the pieces I would take a mesh wig cap and overstuff it with the orange and yellow kanekalon hair and secure the end. Afterwards I took a small crochet hook and pulled hair out at various lengths for the frothy surface texture. I made several that I could build around hair forms on top of a secured scalp braided wig wrap on one of the models.

Rebecca did amazing cohesive face and body make up on each of the models. The entire process took over eight hours at Absolute Studio. Tony photographed each model on a solid black drop and Genna retouched the images for release.

Our collection was beautifully released in a five page spread in Beau NU magazine January 2019 issue.

Credits

Models:

Lucy Duane (Heyman Talent Agency) @lucyduane

Katie Leigh Tarr (Heyman Talent Agency) @kt_tarr

Rebecca Bien

Rebecca Renne Rhodes

Make Up: Rebecca Renee Rhodes @porcelain_kween

Hair : Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Wardrobe/Retouch: Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Photography: Tony Welscher for Absolute Studio

BTS making of “Shock Menagerie”

it takes village…readying the lovely Abbie for the camera

Monarchs of Venus

Matthew Tyldesley April 1, 2019

I am a busy body and always have been. As far as I can remember I can never sit still and to this day I like to sit up at night after working at the salon and create and practice on mannequins and custom wig pieces. I can get inspiration from anywhere and I had stumbled across some really pretty shades of teal in synthetic hair from my local hair shop.

I had started to create some braids using the hair and I loved how the ends turned out but had put that aside to create a similar piece for another collection. This sometimes happens as an artist. I knew I wanted to return to this collection but had worked on some other pieces for two other shoots. It had also been a while since i had worked with Isidro Valencia so I knew I wanted him to be in charge of the make up to go with each piece I decided to create.

This look for Abbie was done by using straight kanakalon hair which I meticulously braided. Afterwards the braids were formed into shape and sewn into a headdress.

It took me several weeks with work and travel as priority as I would work in my freetime, in the evenings and on the weekends. I took snapshots with my phone and sent to Isidro to inspire his make up creativity. We would feature this collection in my art studio I shared with Genna Yussman Greene (wardrobe stylist and photo retoucher) at Absolute Studio in Louisville, Ky and Tony Welsher would photograph the collection.

forming the hair to the headdress using Redken’s Control Addict 28 and heavy heat from hairdryer

The “Pink Lady” hairstyles is very whimsical, Dr. Seuss like feel with a braided veil to cover Dezaray’s face for a dramatic effect. Konakalon Hair was cut into small pieces and fused to a active mesh covered with plaster strips custom head piece. I used matching colored thread instead of elastics to create the braided net veil.

I wanted this collection to showcase braids and feature lots of texture. I created various braids and created form with unusual shapes and hair forms using plaster strips, light weight active mesh. Custom wigs and hair . I kept the shades various hues of “cool” tones and “pastels”.

Photo Sep 17, 2 06 20 PM.jpg — Dezaray on set

Everything turned out to have a “Space Goddess” feel. I used beads and various hair setting techniques in advanced to set and prep the hair pieces for the day of the shoot. I did have to give my hands a break as the preparation of this took several weeks and several hours of braiding.

I took Custom wigs and stacked them using hair forms to create this look on Tracy. I did a lot of prep work on the wigs such as the twisting and ric-racking technique for texture along with stringing the ends with beads.

This look on Dominique which I later referred to as “The Jaguar” started first from forming light weight wire into a headdress. I used plasters of Paris strips to cover the wire then after drying, painted in acrylic the base to match the shades of hair I was using. It was then covered with the braids and matching konakalon hair.

molding the headdress with plaster strips and wire

I found this color at my local hair shop and fell in love with the color effect. I had to braid quite a few of theses

Soft lighting was used to enhance the hair and make up but not to overpower. The same cool tones were used in opposing position with gels in diffused tones. Genna provided simple black bandeau tops as to create the perfect canvas to showcase the hair and make up.

The bast of this was done with active meche and paper mache

For make up isidro decided on two themes: two models were done in avant grade style of make up inspired by his favorite painter, Jackson Pollack. Then the other two models were done is sultry, glamorous make up.

This collection was published in Feroce Magazine in a five page spread. Thank you to Feroce for the feature.

Photo Apr 01, 9 48 50 PM.jpg — Feroce Magazine spread

Credits

Absolute Studio

Creative Director | Hair | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Creative Director | Make Up | Isidro Valencia @valencia0612

Wardrobe Stylist | Photo Retouching | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Photography | Tony Welscher

Models |

Dominique Thompson | @so_joyful79

Abbie Purdie | @abbiepurdie

Dezaray Nicks | @dezaraynicks

Tracy Rowlett | @tracy.rowlett

my go to hairspray on set…Redken’s Control Addict 28

BTS making of “Monarchs of Venus” from Absolute Studio

RECLAIMED

Matthew Tyldesley February 26, 2019

Great ideas and concepts can stem from anywhere. Executing the vision ones see in their mind can easily be shared with a group of people who further bring into their own artistic creativity to further bring the vision to life. One of the models, Katya Estes I had booked for a hair collection at Absolute Studio INC. We have worked together several times and she is an amazing muse to channel any look. I asked her to send me the images of which I loved and sent to our team, Genna Yussman Greene and Tony Welscher.

the perfect lighting for the perfect lip application with Bethany

I contacted make up artist, Bethany Hood to do make up. This would be one of our last collection together since she was relocating to L.A. to work on film and sets out there. She gladly agreed to come to the studio and to work on Katya’s beautiful face.

What really brought this collection to life was the wardrobe. Genna literally went to Goodwill and purchased used sleeping bags, bed sheets, part of a childs car seat, belts and unconventional items. She literally pieced and draped the fabrics on Katya into three solid looks. This is really what made this collection pop with a Goodwill “Couture” vibe.

up close of the black, asymmetrical hairstyle

For the hairstyling I created to contrasting looks that swayed to the avant grade; asymmetrical, irregular and gaudy. I basically stacked 2/3 wigs for each look on Katya’s head. I first secured her hair to her scalp with braids to created a foundation to support the wigs. I used several round hair pads to create the shape along with Kanekalon braiding hair of which I covered even more of the hair pads and pinned them into the overall shape. Once completed I took black elastic cord and tied it with no rhyme around the entire form. Redken’s Control Addict 28 hairspray was a must on set!!

Genna is prepping Katya in “Goodwill” wardrobe

for Make up, Bethany created a very clean, dewy canvas on Katya. Soft defined brows, Shimmer/highlighter brushed crossed both cheeks and eyelids. Soft warm eyeshadow with a tint of orange and a blood orange lip to complete the look.

After shooting, Images were edited by Genna and prepared for publication. You never know how long it maybe for the publication gets excepted for print from any publication but we didn’t have to wait long. Elegant Magazine eagerly accepted the collection and it was published in a 7 page fashion spread in the Nov/Dec 2018 issue. We were ecstatic about the release and grateful to Elegant Magazine.

We spent about 8 hours prepping Katya for three looks on set. Tony photographed Katya on a light grey backdrop with overhead lighting to create “Shadows”.

Life always throws obstacle in your way…The past year our team worked very hard to produce new materials for 2019. It was so good to finally be able to reveal and release some of the work we worked so hard to create and grateful to all the people involved. It’s important in life to take down time, reinvent, rebalance, reflect and celebrate all wins.

Credits

Model | Katya Estes @

Make Up | Bethany Hood @thehouseofhood

Hair | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Wardrobe | Retouch | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Photography | Tony Welscher

on set with Katya and Tony behind the lens

In memory of Tony Welscher. He would have been very proud of the work we put out and we will miss him.

BTS of Reclaimed

REDKEN SYMPOSIUM 2019 BACKSTAGE GRAND OPENING

Matthew Tyldesley February 11, 2019

Dear Symposium,

it’s been two years since our last encounter…

with grand opening model, Amanda Fields Bennett

I had the most amazing time at Mandalay Bay as part of the Grand Opening Team (GO Team). If I said It wasn’t hard work that would be a lie but then again nothing is truly appreciated unless it is earned.

Ellen, Dave, Issa and Jill pose for the camera

This was my fifth working anniversary of Symposium. Every two years a new surprise, an experience, a memory that one never forgets. I arrived on a rainy Tuesday in what is usually sunny Las Vegas. Grabbed my two overstuffed suitcases (Yes, I’ll need everything in them. More than half are hair tools.) I hailed a taxi and scooted off to my home for the week, Mandalay Bay.

Noah and Marie avoiding the hair “Spikes”

After devouring some food and checking my bags into my room I headed to the arena model room. The model room was being prepped for the artists’ and model arrivals. The model room is covered in plastic to prevent damage with rows of long tables, Redken hair color, styling and hair care products.

Parnelli is about the create some volume

Allen, Tim & Jill fitting a model with her wig

The first day or two is really getting acclimated to the space and pretty much like a reunion. I’ve known some of these people for years, have worked on past shows or projects or have been mentors/inspirations since my hair school days. Everyone is getting to know the logistics and flow of the show, schedule and expectations although these can change from one day to the next. Everyone starts to figure out their roles and we basically all work together. Once a project or a model is partially complete we move to the next model to prep them. Any given time a model/dancer will have 4/5 people working on them together or consecutively.

wig city / designed by Redken grand opening hair team

Backstage work comes in flows; at first the work is slow but then it revs up were you feel there are not enough hands on deck. I really enjoy those moments…It’s what really excites me and gets me going. Working with this team you feel the magic. You also feel exhaustion, hungry and are glad you chose to wear comfortable shoes.

In the model room everyone finds a spot to secure their tools and to work nearby but a lot of times you end up floating from space to space to support another artist working on a model or to finish that project. Team work is imperative.

creating volume on lovely Lucia Oskerova

I also love working with the models. They are young, energetic and can rock any hairstyle you give them. They are perfects muses and its fun getting to now them while prepping their hair. The work load gets busy and with deadline so are few missed meals were not uncommon. Plus I was craving bacon the entire time!!

The energy go the Redken artist tribe keeps you going. It was an honor and privilege to be here. I got to catch up with my peers while working. Making small talk and catching up on the past year or two.

Seeing the models/dancers come to life in wardrobe is amazing. Backstage you see the models/dancers between their wardrobe fittings and rehearsal so they’re always partially done until the day of.

It takes a village as model room coodinators, main stage artists, Corporate NYC staff were all working together in synergy to make this a smooth operation. It really takes a village and someone to lead such Suz Sturm who was in charge of running the show from start to finish and Chris Baran who oversaw all the hair that was to be viewed on stage at the grand opening. Wardrobe by Jeremie & Pascal. The grand opening team is comprised of artists from all over the world, have won hair competition awards, facilitate classes, create editorial work and specialize in finishing skills of braiding, haircutting, wig making, long hair dressing and so much more. Everyone worked so hard!!

The show featured five sequences with strong emphasis on music culture. It was also about dual personality and how the city life of NYC changes from the day as well as it’s inhabitants. We had team on both side of the side the night of the grand opening along with the team from wardrobe. As dancers would exit the scene we had to work together and very quickly to remove existing hairstyles, wardrobe and redress the dancers. It was chaotic, very hard to see in the dark corridors and your heart was racing. The bottom line was the show.

Alex and I posing with model, Lucia Oskerova

It all happened so fast and so successfully. You could hear the audience cheering. The entire week of preparing for this very moment. After finishing the final models we all raced ourselves to line up to walk out on stage in front of a massive audience. The feeling was surreal and exciting seeing the faces of 10,000 attendees cheering with excitement…this was the icing on the cake for me.

BTS of Grand Opening Redken Symposium 2019

I will always cherish this experience along with all the other memorable ones. I am so glad I got to experience this with so many of my closest peers. You always re inspire me! I’ve had plenty of bacon upon returning home.

See you in two more years!!

Sincerely,

Matty

xoxo

PHOTO FINISH 10/18

Matthew Tyldesley January 14, 2019

Lights, Camera, Hairspray, lipstick…it’s time for these models to work it for the cameras.

Photo Finish was a rousing success once again as hairstylists from around the world (This time we had attendees from Dubai and Australia) for a three day, hands on, Immersive experience executing their very own photoshoots.

Noah Hatton and I once again reconvened at The Redken Exchange in Manhattan. This time joined by fellow Redken artist, Lindsey Olson. Our program is 90% hands on experience. Attendees have theory highlighting contemporary and past photographers, along with each facilitator presenting a portfolio of their work to fuel inspiration .

By Day three we were joined by New York Photographer, Joseph Rivera and make up artists Xinxin Chang and Samantha Martinez.

Attendees work on both mannequins and real models for Alicja Models Agency in NYC on day 1 and 2. Foundation skills of basic ponytails, French and Italian twist along with marcel iron work are demoed then executed by the attendees.

By day 3 attendees will have created a vision/mood board reflecting their “brand” of hair they would want to create during their photoshoots. This allows total creative control but also keeps the photoshoot on point and allows everyone involved has a clear path to the vision set by each attendee.

We spent a total about 30 hours packed into three days of exciting, fun, educational photoshoot.

You won’t want to miss Photo Finish and we would love to have you there. Below, two optional dates for 2019:

March August

BTS Of our three day class in NYC sign up at redkensalon.com

Facilitator | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Facilitator | Lindsey Olson @lindsey.marie.olson

Facilitator | Noah Hatton @noahbhatton

Photographer | Joseph Rivera @byjoseprivera

Make Up Artist | Xinxin Wang @xinxinwang_xinxinwang

Make Up Artist | Samantha Martinez @sam.martin.beauty

Alicja Burek @alicjaevents

SHADOW & SHADE

Matthew Tyldesley December 12, 2018

I have been waiting to work with fashion photographer, Erik Branch for a while now but our schedules never permitted until this past fall when I had the opportunity to connect with him.

He asked me what I wanted to shoot and I quickly created a vision board. I contact Genna Yussman Greene for wardrobe & contacted make up artist, Rebecca Renee Rhodes.

The great thing about photoshoots are networking; I had recently worked with Rebecca on another project and asked if she would interested just as I had with model, Magon Faye that we just worked with and amazing model, Olive Flick who I’ve had the pleasure to work with a few times prior would be perfect models for this collection.

Rebecca had just won a regional make up contest so I knew she would be perfect for creating the make up on both models. She created an exaggerated winged eye with shades of orange and black, strong defined brows and dark, matte lips.

For hair I wanted to create some braids with texture. One thing I like to do sometimes for photoshoots to maximize looks, I’ll create asymmetry in the hairstyles so that both sides are different. Ideally the model can change her body position and a second look is produced. Sometimes you have to go where the model’s hair wants to go as long as its cohesive with the rest of the style. I wanted some 80’s texture so I did some “Rick Racking” (figure 8 wrap hair around a long hair pins) followed by heating up the section afterwards with the Sam Villa Sleekr iron ad allowing to cool. Once removed it creates a really cool, texture that can be brushed and backcombed. I was able to adapt the style from one look to another quickly between takes.

hairstyle profile

The above look was the final third hairstyle I had created from Olives hair. At this point the hair had been so manipulated from braiding and crimping. So I created this side look by rolling the hair over and securing with pins. I brushed out her fringe and pushed it to the side and backcombed the ends for a fashionably, disheveled look. To give a tinge of polish I placed to faux pearl hair pins and viola, Olive was ready to rock the camera.

Nothing says classy like a french twist. I created this polished french twist on Magon. First polishing her own hair and to create volume. A directional blow-dry with Redken Guts 10 and a round brush was imperative to create the shape and to create shine. I finished the look with a few textured tendrils (Which I had really played up on Olive for cohesiveness) a swooping fringe adorned and finished with a braided flower.

a painters canvas: mua Rebecca shaping the eyes of model Olive

570A1551 fn-2.jpg — Image by Erik Branch

For Magon’s next look I did a sectional, I literally created several small ponytails and knotted them together. I fishtailed the hair into a ponytail and left some tendrils around her face.

Erik photographed each model separately as we would readying the model not on set. He did some group shots with both looks as well. We spent around 8 hours prepping models and photographing the models at Erik’s victorian home studio in Louisville, KY.

The above look on Olive was created by braiding pie sections and backcombing the rest of her hair onto in a mohawk. To alter her silhouette I took the ends of the braided hair and secured them over the teased, rolled hair.

Erik created two sets. One that was traditional white with bright, clean lighting. The second one was moodier and darker with an almost black backdrop, minimal lighting and some props.

Everyone did a fantastic job on set and the final images spoke for themselves. We were so honored to get published in the November 2018 of Beau NU magazine featuring the collection in a seven page spread. Thank you Beau NU.

fun on set with Rebecca checking social and Erik behind the lens

Credits

Model | Magon Faye @model_magonfaye

Model | Olive Flick @_oliveflick (Heyman Talent Agency)

Photography | Erik Branch

Wardrobe | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Make Up | Rebecca Renee Rhodes @porcelain_kween

Hair | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

The collection featured in Beau NU Magazine

OFFICIAL BTS video “Shadow & Shade”

Final Image by Tony Welsher/Genna Yussman

Origami Girls

Matthew Tyldesley November 30, 2018

My friend and designer/stylist, Genna Yussman Greene is always full of ideas. She came into posession of a dressed that reminded her of paper dolls. She showed it to me and suggested I do paper pieces. My passions as both a hairstylist and artist ignited with the end result of three distinct paper wigs.

***Bangstyle exclusive collection

Genna directing model Briana on set with “Paula” the paper poodle

group photo!!! The team at Absolute Studio MGT with our “Paper” dolls

Below are the complete wigs. I spent several hours crafting them. I used cardboard to create the foundation and a glue gun to easily adhere the paper. I would cut several pieces in various sizes of the same shapes to create visual dimension. I would curl longer pieces around pencils to create curls. I chose to go with the color blue for all three.

my finished “paper'‘ blue hair collection

We photographed and prepped models at our newly rented larger space, “Absolute Studio MGT”. We originally booked only one model for this project, Briana Velazquez who who would be relocating to LA. On the day of the shoot model, Jasmine Graham stopped by the studio to say hello and we convinced her to get in front of the camera as we all had plenty of extra items on hand we quickly readied her for camera.

Photographer, Tony Welsher did a wonderful job capturing the models on camera. He and Genna chose the yellow backdrop and creating the appropriate lighting to give the shoot that cartoon-like feel.

I am so happy to be working with this team and we have some amazing work on the way. So grateful to Bangstyle who wanted to feature this collection.

behind the lens with Tony and model, Jasmine

I was also challenged with doing make up on set….My first love of course is hair but I started out in the salon doing a lot of prom and wedding make up. I always say, “learn the basics.” The hairpiece below that Briana is wearing was made of adhering several sheets of paper together and cutting thin sections parallel together and i snipped into the fringe to see her eyes once she was wearing it.

The below wig “Glamour Girl” on Jasmine was created with thin strips of paper I coiled around pencil and glued to cloud cut pieces of blue construction paper for a voluminous, campy-feel. Transporting the wigs was fun too….I had to carefully strap them into my car to avoid them getting smashed, torn or bent.

I love working with many different artists but working with the same allows for growth, contuniity and inspiration.

How I transported these wigs in my car so they wouldn’t get damaged

stay tuned to see what the artists of Absolute Studio MGT have in store.

double time: sharing the scene with Jasmine and Briana

CREDITS

Models | Briana Velasquez @valazqueztb

Jasmine Graham @jas_nicole22

Wardrobe/Retouch | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

Photography | Tony Welscher @dawstudio

Hair/Make Up | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

The SUCCUBUS Chronicles

Matthew Tyldesley September 24, 2018

Succubus. Vampire. Demon. Creatures of the Night. Years ago I did a a collaborative series fueled by my love of horror films and halloween. It would exercise my passion for fashion and hair, produce two sequel, involve lots of talented artists, published three times and created an amazing experience. Looking back in retrospect we created a timeless body of work that is worth a revisit….The Succubus Chronicles

Succubus Origins image by Joey Goldsmith

dream team: discussing our vision captured image by Gary Barragan

Succubus Origins photo by Joey Goldsmith

The initial collection was conjured together with award winning make up artist, Isidro Valencia and with published photographer, Joey Goldsmith. The three of us discussed our love for all things macabre and dark and wanted to create a serious collection inspired by the folklore of the “succubus”. I was responsible with both hair and styling along with creative direction with both Joey and Isidro. We secured three models and got permission to shoot at the historical Culbertson Mansion in Downtown Louisville, Kentucky.

selfie with photographer, Joey and videographer, Blake

We spent an entire day at the eerie Culbertson mansion with its beautiful construction and full of historical antiques. I was not allowed to use hairspray whatever on the premises as it would collect in the air and unto the vintage heirlooms. That was a fun challenge. I was also in charge of styling and purchased expensive garments from Goodwill of which I paired jewelry and accessories.

Joey did an amazing job of telling a story with the three models we had. He scouted various areas of the mansion prior to setting up lights and for staging every area we utilized. Jacey Calloway was our lead who created the allure and beauty a succubus needs in order to drain the life and energy from her victims. Chris Diaz and Erica Goldsmith play the unsuspecting couple that venture into the home of the succubus. As the night progress so do Jacey’s power and both Erica and Chris become creatures of the night.

styling Elora’s mane. Image by Gary Barragan

s-3NyELzD7gs8d9GXPYdnY3FjrUSIx3wFWjncudEfQQ,RkZFwhNx8gWCqU9AiGMtuxO5vhx0cLcjX5LFOQBBgR0.jpeg — Succubus Origins image by Joey Goldsmith

Isidro created a very clean palette that encompassed the sultriness the models needed but turned it up a notch when the Succubus turned into her dark form. Heavy kohl rimmed eyes and defined brows with lots of contour and red lips. For hair I made a lot of custom extensions but wanted lots of texture with curls and lots of volume. Kind of the old world meets the new world for a timeless feel.

bts of my working area: tools and vision board to bring the vision to life

We had custom nails designed by nail designer Maritza Cabalerro and had bts imaged photographed by Gary Barragan. The collection, “Succubus” debuted in Australia’s Like a Lion magazine fall issue.

Teaser for the upcoming Succubus-Incubus fashion editorial. Goldsmith photography Matthew tyldesley Redken artist Valencia make-up Liberty Designs Dark Heart Creative

Succubus Incubus photo by Joey Goldsmith

amazing working design bts by Genna Yussman Greene worn by Jacey

A sequel was brought up a year later and we wanted to go bigger and harder with this one. So many ideas came to mind but we knew the fashions would play a larger role for this and so we asked designer Genna Yussman Greene to create a collection for a follow up to our Succubus. She created a very slick and sexy collection in dark hues of red, violet and black featuring various textures, slim fitting and strategically showed off skin.

SUCCUBUS BTS VIDEO BY DARK HEART CREATIVE

working design bts by Genna Yussman Greene worn by Erica and Elora

We talked about using Jacey as our lead and inviting both Erica and Chris back but needed to up the ante and added two new models, Elora Antunez and John Wells. We split the shooting in two days. Day one was at ThoughtFly Studios and focused more on the artistry of hair and make up and was strictly beauty images. Day 2 was on location in full fashion editorial mode. This way we created two collections with two completely different vibes using the same models.

Genna’s original designs based on our vision per our meetings

This time we got permission to use the lovely home of Janice Carter Levitch who had home in the highlands: Old gorgeous home covered with lots of shrubbery, stones and trees. There were lots of areas outside that provided a beautiful landscaped to create the darker world of the Succubus.

wardrobe touch up and model posing inspiration with Genna

capturing both stills and video of Jacey and John with Blake and Joey. Image by Gary Barragan

We again invited photographer, Gary Barragan back again to shoot bts images and brought in videographer, Blake McGrew who filmed promotional teasers and a small documentary. Maritza Cabellero was gracious again to create new set of nails for all the models to wear.

John and Erica on set with Joey. Image by Gary Barragan

working design bts by Genna Yussman Greene worn by Jacey

We spent an entire day (14 hours) staging, prepping models and photographing all models. We were tired but knew we had made magic. Isidro pushed the makeup much more: much darker and harder and I turned up the hair full fashion runway volume with classic waves and vampy curls.

Joey capturing Elora behind the lens. Image by Gary Barragan

our creatures of the night, Elora, Jacey & Chris

The collection, “Succubus / Incubus” debuted an impressive spread as well as grace the cover of Imperial Magazine’s fall issue and our beauty collection, “Succubus: Creatures of the Night” was a Bangstyle exclusive collection.

I am beyond proud of these collections, the amount of work that went into them and the artists that combined their gifts and talents to create these timeless collections.

so much fun on set. image by Gary Barragan

Succubus: Children Of The Night photo by Joey Goldsmith

CREDITS

Photography/Creative Direction | Joey Goldsmith @joeygoldsmithphoto

Hair/Creative Direction | Matthew Tyldesley @hairbymatt

Make Up/Creative Direction | Isidro Valencia @valencia0612

Wardrobe | Genna Yussman Greene @gennayussman

MODELS

Jacey Calloway @hownowmeowcatt

Erica Goldsmith @ericagoldsmithactress

Chris Diaz @chrisryandiaz

Elora Antunez @mermaidqueen25

John Scott Wells @john_scott_well

BTS Photography | Gary Barragan @photobygaryb

Videography | Blake McGrew | Dark Heart Creative @darkheartcreative

Make Up Assistant | Anna Catalina Perez @anacperezhmua

Wardrobe Assistants | Kali Shmuckie | Jamie Boston Guest

Special Thanks to Culbertson Mansion, Like A Lion Magazine, Imperial Magazine, Bangstyle and Janice Carter Levitch, Eric Baker and ThoughtFly Studios.

Jacey behind the lens with Joey. Image by Gary Barragan

the make up master working on his canvas

with my Bestie, Isidro. Image by Gary Barragan

memorabalia: digital tearsheet from Like A Lion

memorabilia: featured collection from Bangstyle

REDKEN NBT 2018 Reunion

Matthew Tyldesley September 12, 2018

It’s been an entire year since I had won Redken’s NBT (Next Big Thing) 2017 hair color contest along with five other winners and spent an entire fun filled week together in Los Angeles. We have managed to watch each others successes through social media and stay in contact through group chats.

I've stayed in close contact with last years winners and have watched their growth in the last year on social and group chats. We had really bonded and really wanted to spend time together. It was a reunion and amazing two days spent with fellow Redken artists, Kyle Pinneo, Nikki Diedrich, Aundreya Shae Rich, Woodward Bartlett and Cheryl Bakke.

I arrived in sunny, Los Angeles Wednesday evening and was hosted in downtown at the Intercontinental Hotel. The interncontinental is the second tallest in LA at a grand total 70 stories high in the sky. That evening I met the 2018 winners on the rooftop bar for a cocktail.

Selfie with NBT 2018 winner Brittany VanDyke

The next morning I awoke to ready for Venice Beach with my buddies. After a 45 minute Uber ride we found a restaurant on Venice Beach for brunch and bloody marys at Candle Cafe & Grill.

Afterwards we layed out for three hours enjoying the sun and surf. lots of people watching and really reconnecting after a busy year. We took lots of photos and enjoy the ocean’s monstrous waves. Ate mango and watermelon from a beach vendor while lastly walking the strip and checking out the local businesses.

selfie with Kyle who is also a 2018 winner!

Afterwards we got boarded back into Uber and headed back to the hotel for a two hour rest and to ready for the big rooftop party in Beverly Hills.

with Bangstyle’s Ashlee Levitch and Lori Balsamian

We arrived in style from Uber at SIXTY Beverly Hills and entered the elevators to the private rooftop Redken/NYX party. We arrived to see our work on the walls along with video projection of everyone that attended projected on the screen above the pool. We had an exclusive cocktail menu and were served light appetizers.

this years NBT winners Karla Valenzuela & Bri-Anna Burkley

my work model: Alexis Gibson make up: Isidro valenica Photography/styling: Genna Yussman Greene

The appetizers were not enough and we were starving so afterwards we went to Quarters for Korean BBQ.

I am so thankful to Redken and to all the artist involved and to all the cool people I got to meet. This was an amazing experience I hope to experience in the future again. Stay humble my friends.

LUSTRE

Matthew Tyldesley August 28, 2018

I was so excited to continue my editorial collaboration with fashion photographer, Jenni Harper Young (Harper Young Photography). This particular collection was inspired by holograms and pastel hair and fashion. Jenni had mentioned wanted to do a photoshoot with models that had blue and pink hair.

She had contacted me later and we started planning this collection. I recommend Genna Yussman Greene for Wardrobe and she wanted make up artist Becca Schell on board. Both of them played integral roles in this fashion collection. Genna had pieced together a wardrobe based on our concept along with accessories. A custom winglet she sewed together using holographic wrapping paper.

For make up Becca used bright pastels creating a beautiful, "doll" like make up. Eyeshadow was placed over entire lid and brow in strong pinks and blues on both models. Baby blue and pastel green lip color with strong baby pink blush with heavy highlighter.

hairstyles varied in length on each model ranging from lock flowing braided looks to short croppy cuts and fringed bobs.

For hair, I created various looks using several wigs. The look below was created using long hair pins that hair was woven through in a figure 8 pattern and heated using a hand held steamer. The hair setting took a couple hours to prep prior to the photoshoot.

models hair was braided to consolidate density and length for wigs

Utilizing wigs is efficient for on set photoshoots to drastically change a models look. The prep work is done prior to save time as some of the looks are very technical and time consuming to create. The hairstyle below is an example of one of the looks prepped prior to the shoot using various braid techniques.

The look below hair netting/hair veil was created using sewing thread and lots of patients. A front lace wig was used to create this look using the front hair line to execute the hair veil.

We all worked together to create a total of six looks on two model in eight hours. Genna pieced together a beautiful collection with metallic, textures in various materials in both pink, blue and holographic finishes in booth shine and matte nuances.

Jenni photographed the entire collection that was beautiful published by Elegant Magazine in a nine page spread. We are grateful to them for the feature and to everyone involved in this project.