PROTOTYPE is a practice-led project to work on 50 individual faces — to deepen artistic decision-making through real human variation. It exists to challenge our skills, refine our process, and grow through hands-on experience. True practice doesn’t happen on charts or templates — it happens through different skin tones, textures, features, and expressions, face by face.

Each PROTOTYPE session is approached as a working creative exercise. The direction is shaped by what feels most appropriate — whether that is moodboard-led, concept-driven, or a more personal interpretation. No two sessions are designed to be the same.

Learning happens in real time — for both artist and participant — through shared observation and dialogue. Participation extends beyond simply sitting in the chair; it is an active, collaborative process. Each session begins with a brief conversation to understand the prototype — you — including comfort levels, preferences, and boundaries. This conversation sets context, not a fixed outcome. Please note that this does not mean the session will focus on natural or everyday makeup. PROTOTYPE is intentionally different from our usual teaching or service-based sessions.

To preserve focus and the intimacy of the process, sessions are conducted one-on-one, without companions present. From there, the creative direction is set collaboratively, whether moodboard-led, personal and natural, or concept-driven. Makeup application unfolds gradually, with questions welcomed throughout and learning happening organically through conversation and shared observation. This is a conversational makeup session, allowing space for discussion, adjustment, and reflection as the work unfolds. Each session is documented as it happens.

In exchange for your time and participation, you’ll receive a complete makeup session alongside personalised insights into technique, placement, and decision-making. Where appropriate, makeup analysis outcomes will be shared. Questions are welcomed throughout, and learning is embedded into the experience. Selected images or short clips from the session may be shared, and participants will also receive a preferential rate towards future sessions with us (or code.d). There is no cost to take part.

Once the makeup is complete, final refinements are made and hair is lightly polished to bring the overall look together. This is followed by a short headshot session, with gentle guidance on posing and expression to capture the finished result naturally. Each individual is documented differently. If any preparation is required, direction will be shared via email prior to the session.

The images and footage produced through PROTOTYPE are used to document artistic growth, refine technique, and build our portfolio. All usage is aligned with the purpose of the practice.

PROTOTYPE is open to individuals of any gender, any age, who are curious about makeup as a process, comfortable being photographed or filmed, and interested in collaborative creation. No prior modelling or on-camera experience is required.

Commencement: January 2026 [February Intake Full, Accepting Applications for March 2026]
Duration: 3.5 hours
Looking for: 41 more faces