Kanako Takase, a Tokyo-born makeup artist, has become a dynamic force in the global beauty landscape with her refined, art-inspired approach. After graduating from beauty school in Tokyo, Takase moved to New York at 22 and trained as the first assistant to renowned makeup artist Yadim, an experience that helped launch her own career. Known for her inventive techniques and a distinct style that marries artistry with technical precision, Takase quickly gained attention for her innovative collaborations and unique vision, blending traditional makeup with unconventional elements.
One of her standout projects is her collaboration with Norwegian artist Bjarne Melgaard and hair artist Recine on The Casual Pleasure of Disappointment, an exhibition shown at Thaddaeus Ropac in Paris. In this project, she helped create surreal, doll-like figures constructed from hair, paint, makeup, and other media—a display of her boundary-pushing approach and fascination with blending makeup artistry and fine art. This exploration of art beyond conventional beauty has informed her work on campaigns for brands like Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, and Marc Jacobs, as well as her editorials with top photographers like Juergen Teller, Inez and Vinoodh, Mario Sorrenti, and Lachlan Bailey.
Takase’s influence extends to fashion weeks worldwide, where she has keyed shows for major brands, including Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Hermès, bringing her vision to the runway. Since 2019, she has served as the Global Creative Director for Addiction Cosmetics, where she shapes the brand’s artistic direction, integrating her distinctive aesthetic with the brand’s identity. Kanako Takase’s work continues to inspire, cementing her as a sought-after creative in today’s beauty and fashion industry.
