Val Garland is a renowned London-based make-up artist, who has built a reputation for her innovative and conceptual approach to her craft. Born and raised in Bristol, Garland's early life took an unexpected turn when she relocated to Sydney, Australia, where she underwent training as a hair colourist. This experience, however, sparked a newfound passion for colour, which ultimately led her to transition from hair to make-up.
As her skills and reputation grew, Garland became a leading practitioner in the Australian make-up industry, working on various projects that showcased her creativity and expertise. In 1994, she made the decision to return to her hometown of London, where she continued to hone her craft, working on a wide range of projects that have cemented her status as a leading make-up artist.
Throughout her illustrious career, Garland has collaborated with some of the most esteemed figures in the industry, including Nick Knight, Mario Testino, John Galliano, Chloë Sevigny, and Björk. Her innovative ideas and artistic vision have led to her working on high-profile projects, such as catwalk shows for Alexander McQueen, commercial celebrity shoots with Kate Moss, and publications like Vogue, Dazed & Confused, i-D, and Visionaire.
Garland's numerous accolades include the Pantene Pro-V Make-up Artist of the Year Award in 2004 and her appointment as the first L'Oréal Paris Global Make-up Director in 2017. In 2018, she published the book Validated, a collection of her most seminal images, which offer a glimpse into her remarkable career.
In addition to her many accomplishments, Garland has also taken on a new role as a judge on the BBC TV series Glow Up, a competition for make-up artists. This prestigious position further solidifies her position as a respected and influential figure in the make-up industry.
