FOUNDER AND LEAD EDUCATOR

With more than three decades of industry experience, Tara Cowles has worked across multiple areas of the beauty world including film, television, editorial, bridal, and education. In 2003 she founded Artists Within Makeup Academy with the goal of creating comprehensive, career-focused training programs for aspiring makeup artists.

Today Tara continues to mentor and teach students through Artists Within’s modern virtual programs, sharing the techniques, professional standards, and real-world knowledge that have helped thousands of artists begin their careers.

STUDIO HEAD

Kiran plays an essential role behind the scenes at Artists Within, helping ensure the academy runs smoothly day-to-day. As Studio Head, she supports operations, organization, and student coordination, assisting with the many moving parts that keep the academy running seamlessly.

Working closely with founder and lead educator Tara Cowles, Kiran helps manage the details that allow the focus to remain on delivering high-quality makeup education and a positive student experience.

EDITORIAL MAKEUP ARTIST

Kai is an editorial makeup artist whose work focuses on creative beauty and visual storytelling for photography and media. His experience includes collaborating with photographers, stylists, and creative teams to produce impactful editorial looks.

As Editorial Makeup Advisor for Artists Within, Kai offers industry perspective that supports the academy’s training in creative makeup design and on-set workflow. His insights help students understand how artistry, collaboration, and concept development come together in editorial environments.

AIRBRUSH MAKEUP SPECIALIST

Zene specializes in professional airbrush makeup techniques used across bridal, film, television, and editorial work. Her expertise focuses on creating flawless skin finishes with lightweight, long-lasting applications that photograph beautifully on high-definition cameras.

As the Airbrush Makeup Advisor for Artists Within, Zene provides technical guidance that supports the academy’s airbrush curriculum. Her contributions help students develop confidence using professional airbrush equipment and techniques widely used in the beauty and production industries.

HAIR SESSION STYLIST

Leanne is a professional hairstylist with extensive experience in session styling for photography, fashion, bridal, and creative productions. Her work focuses on creating polished, camera-ready hairstyles that complement makeup artistry and complete the overall look for photoshoots, events, and media.

As Hair Styling Advisor for Artists Within, Leanne provides guidance that supports the academy’s hair styling components within the hair session styling program. Her expertise helps students understand how hair and makeup work together to create cohesive, professional looks for clients, photography, and production environments.

ADVANCED MAKEUP SPECIALTIST

Adison is an experienced makeup artist specializing in advanced makeup techniques used across fashion, editorial, bridal, and commercial work. His artistry focuses on refined skin work, creative looks, and the precision required for high-definition photography and professional environments.

As Advanced Makeup Advisor for Artists Within, Adison contributes industry perspective that helps guide the academy’s advanced training programs. His insights support students in developing the elevated techniques, creativity, and attention to detail needed to grow beyond foundational skills and work confidently in professional settings.

FASHION STYLIST

Mia is a professional fashiohn stylist specializing in editorial and runway. With experience working on editorial photoshoots, fashion productions, and creative campaigns, her work focuses on modern trends, pushing the limits, and high-impact runway looks.

As Fashion Stylist Advisor for Artists Within, Mia provides industry insight that helps shape the academy’s fashion and editorial training. Her perspective supports students in understanding the creative direction, inspiration, and fashion insite required when working in fashion environments.

BRIDAL MAKEUP ARTIST

Blythe is a professional bridal makeup artist known for creating polished, timeless looks that enhance natural beauty while ensuring makeup performs beautifully on camera and throughout long wedding days.

As Bridal Makeup Advisor for Artists Within, Blythe contributes industry expertise to help guide students in the techniques and client experience required for successful bridal artistry. Her insight supports training in consultation skills, product selection, and creating long-lasting makeup designed for photography and real-world events.

SFX MAKEUP ARTIST

Sloan is a Special Effects Makeup Artist with extensive experience creating realistic character transformations for film, television, photography, and creative productions. Her work spans a wide range of effects including wounds, aging, prosthetics, creature design, and character makeup.

As Special Effects Advisor for Artists Within, Sloan provides guidance and industry insight that supports the development of the academy’s SFX curriculum. Her expertise helps ensure that students are learning techniques and materials that reflect professional industry standards, and the possibilities within this specialized area of the film industry.