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Musawenkosi Moyo
INSPIRED by the glamorous world of film, where visual representation and talent are dominant features, Thandeka Moyo, a local makeup artist from Njube suburb in Bulawayo, is slowly finding her way to becoming a promising voice in the special effects (SFX) film industry.
Special effects are techniques and technologies that create illusions or enhance visual elements in a movie. Otherwise noted as SFX, these effects can be either practical or digital, and are used to add visual interest, realism, or fantasy to a film.
In an industry largely untapped in Bulawayo, where many are apparently hesitating to enter, Thandeka is shattering boundaries through her bold creations, transforming bodies into breathtaking works of art.
She said it was her fascination with the transformative power of makeup that inspired her career choice.
“I was motivated to dive into the industry by my love for beauty, grooming and etiquette. Watching films and seeing how people can be transformed into visual masterpieces that seem out of this world has made me want to be part of that process,” she said.
She also said that another major motivator for her was her mother, who always uses the power of makeup to look her absolute best.
“My mother has also been an inspiration to me. Despite her old age, she still goes above and beyond to make sure that she looks her best and all eyes are on her whenever she steps out in public,” she said.
Thandeka, whose style usually features prosthetics and dark, eerie works of art, usually showcases her work on her social media pages and does occasional freelancing to promote herself.
She said that her biggest challenge has been to get an opportunity in the film industry and networking with the right people to push her career in the right path.
“The greatest challenge has been gaining exposure in the trade, accessing the right people to showcase my work. Another issue has been marketing because it’s a bit hard to come across a lot of film producers in the region,” said Thandeka.
The budding artist, who has yet to be involved in a major film, said that looking ahead, she hopes to be part of a major film and to be able to teach and share her skills with other people in the community.
“I hope to be part of notable film projects, become a big brand name in the SFX industry and secure a seat among the big leagues,” she said.
“I also hope to get the opportunity to share my craft with other young people in the community and build a legacy that will not fall into extinction,” she said.
Online Reporter