Behind the Image is an ongoing MODELS.com series taking a more personal look at both established and emerging creative talent.
Vassilis Theotokis | Image courtesy of MA + Group
Vassilis Theotokis, Makeup Artist
Hometown/country: Greece
Based: London, England
Representation: MA + Group
How would you describe your work? What’s your trademark?
I strive for highly technical, refined, and timeless beauty in my work. My trademark is a well-blended, late 70s-inspired eye look.
How did you first discover your passion for beauty, and what led you specifically into the world of makeup?
My mom was a very successful Avon lady in Greece. Our flat was filled with makeup, and I loved experimenting with it. This, combined with my creative side – I was always drawing and painting – ignited my love for makeup.
What other jobs have you had?
I’ve had many jobs, but the weirdest one was professional TV viewing. As part of a TV show, I watched other television shows daily and took notes.
What inspires your creative process and influences your artistic vision?
Art, manga, cinema, and old fashion references. I often spend time in libraries seeking out lesser-known references.
What have you watched/heard/read lately that has inspired you?
The book “In Search of Lost Time” by Marcel Proust. I consider it the best book of the 20th century.
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced professionally?
Navigating the constant oscillation between validation and rejection.
What’s one thing outside of your work that you would like people to know about you?
I studied linguistics at the university, and I like writing in Greek.
What do you hope viewers take away from experiencing your work?
Ideally, the same sense of escapism I experienced as a child gazing at the makeup campaigns in department stores.
Who do you think is one to watch?
Sam Visser. He’s not a newcomer, but I’ve always admired his boldness and strong technique.
Selected Work
Vivienne Westwood by Juergen Teller | Image courtesy of MA + Group
Andreas Kronthaler for Vivienne Westwood F/W 2018, July 2018
This was one of my earliest jobs after stepping out from assisting, and I wasn’t even represented by an agency at the time. I was on set, and I couldn’t believe I was working with Juergen Teller and Vivienne Westwood.
By Marili Andre | Image courtesy of MA + Group
Revue Beauté, May 2021
I love the simplicity and the darkness of this picture. The girl is young and pretty, but there’s something twisted about the dry whiteness of her skin (achieved with a coarse powder) and the redness of her eyes.
Image courtesy of MA + Group
Personal project, October 2022
This is a portrait of my dad, and it’s probably the most personal project I’ve done with makeup. He was visiting me in London, and I didn’t think he would allow me to paint him gold. But he did, and he actually enjoyed it.
By Marili Andre | Image courtesy of MA + Group
Double Magazine #45 Spring 2023 Covers, March 2023
I always love working with Marili Andre and Lotta Volkova . This was, I believe, the first AI cover for a high-fashion magazine, and they asked me to create the makeup for it. I loved the procedure of blending real and digital makeup.
Alex Consani by Paul Kooiker | Image courtesy of MA + Group
Document Journal Spring/Summer 2024 Covers, May 2024
For years, I looked at Paul Kooiker‘s books at museum shops and admired Robbie Spencer’s work. Working with them both on a cover shoot was a dream.
