Shu Uemura
Shu Uemura | |
|---|---|
| Born | Tokyo, Japan |
| Died | Error: Need valid birth date (second date): year, month, day Tokyo, Japan |
| Occupation(s) | Make-up artist, cosmetics brand founder |
| Years active | 1950s–2007 |
| Known for | Founder of Shu Uemura cosmetics |
was a renowned Japanese make-up artist and the creator of the eponymous cosmetics brand.
Career
Originating from Tokyo, Shu Uemura's fascination with hairstyling and makeup began during his teenage years while recuperating from an illness. He pursued formal training at the Tokyo Beauty Academy, distinguishing himself as the sole male among 130 students.
His initial experience in film makeup occurred on the 1957 production Joe Butterfly, which was partially shot in Japan. In the late 1950s, Uemura relocated to Hollywood to advance his career in film and television makeup artistry. His significant breakthrough arrived in 1962 with My Geisha, where he took over from the regular makeup artist and received praise for his transformation of actress Shirley MacLaine into a Japanese character. Subsequently, he became a sought-after makeup professional in Hollywood, collaborating with celebrities such as Edward G. Robinson, Frank Sinatra, and Lucille Ball. Among his notable contributions was his work on Sinatra’s 1965 film None but the Brave.
In 1960, Uemura introduced his first product: a cleansing oil designed to remove impurities more effectively than soap while maintaining skin moisture. This item continues to enjoy popularity in Japan. His approach to makeup prioritized skin health and enhancing natural features instead of relying on heavy cosmetic alteration.
After returning to Japan in 1964, he established the Shu Uemura makeup school aimed at teaching Hollywood-style techniques. In 1967, he founded Japan Makeup and inaugurated its initial boutique in Tokyo’s Omotesando area. The brand was renamed Shu Uemura Cosmetics in 1983. Leveraging Japan’s economic growth and Western fashion influences during the 1980s, his company expanded significantly both within Japan and internationally.
In 2004, Uemura sold a controlling stake to the French cosmetics corporation L'Oréal but continued to serve as the brand’s creative visionary. By early 2008, Shu Uemura Cosmetics achieved annual global revenues near $100 million, operating stores in cities including Paris, New York City, London, Hong Kong, and across Japan. The product range diversified to incorporate hair care and lifestyle items, fragrances, false eyelashes, and handcrafted brushes. The brand attained cultural prominence, with its eyelash curlers referenced in the 2006 movie The Devil Wears Prada.
Twice yearly, Uemura conducted personal demonstrations of makeup techniques in Tokyo, London, or New York City to unveil new collections.
Death
Shu Uemura passed away from pneumonia in Tokyo on December 29, 2007, aged 79. He left behind his wife and son Hiroshi, who had introduced his own cosmetics brand named UTOWA in 2002. The funeral service was held on January 4, 2008.