10 YEARS OF IMA

Ten years ago, The Iver Makeup Academy opened its doors at Pinewood Studios with a simple idea: to create a space where aspiring makeup artists could learn directly from industry professionals, build their skills, and step confidently into the creative world of film, TV, theatre, and fashion.

But our story didn’t begin there. The academy was born from the legacy of Greasepaint, a world – renowned makeup school founded in 1979 by Julia Cruttenden. For over 30 years, Greasepaint trained generations of makeup artists who went on to work on some of the biggest productions in the world. When Greasepaint closed, there was a real need to continue that standard of training – one that combined practical skills with creativity, professionalism, and a deep respect for the craft.

The Iver Makeup Academy was created to carry that torch forward. Many of our original tutors came from Greasepaint, bringing their knowledge, passion, and care with them. This link to Greasepaint means we not only celebrate 10 years of Iver but also honour over four decades of training excellence that has shaped the UK’s makeup industry.

Greasepaint to Iver: A Timeline

Images courtesy of the Greasepaint archives

The Tutors Who Inspire 

The academy has always been defined by its tutors. They bring with them decades of experience across some of the most prestigious productions in film, television, theatre. But more importantly, they bring patience, generosity, and a genuine passion for teaching.

Our tutors don’t just pass on techniques- they share stories, insights and hard-earned lessons from their own careers. They know what it’s like to work long hours on set, to meet last minute challenges and to collaborate under pressure. That real-world perspective is what makes learning here so unique. Yet for all their industry accolades, what truly sets them apart is their care for their students. Many graduates say the encouragement they received from a tutor at a crucial moment, gave them the confidence to keep going. That kind of support is what lasts a lifetime.

The Graduates Who Carry The Torch 

Over the past decade, hundreds of graduates have left our studios and gone on to build careers in every corner of the creative industries. Some now work on blockbuster films and hit television series; others have found their place in theatre, live events, or the fashion world. Some have even won awards alongside their teams, while others are just beginning to take their first steps.

No two journeys are the same- and that’s something we celebrate. What matters most to us isn’t how big the production is, but that our graduates are doing work they love, gaining confidence along the way, and finding their own paths. Even the smallest opportunities can be stepping stones to extraordinary things. Seeing our graduates thrive, in whatever direction life takes them, is one of our proudest achievements.

The IMA Community

If there’s one thing that stands out from the last 10 years, it’s the community that has formed here. Our studios are more than places to learn – they’re places where friendships are made, creativity is shared, and support networks are built. Many of our graduates return to mentor new students, creating a cycle of encouragement that keeps the Academy’s spirit alive.

It’s this sense of togetherness that makes The Iver Makeup Academy more than just a training ground. We’ve seen students arrive nervous about whether they belong, only to leave not just with skills and credits, but with lifelong confidence, resilience, and friendships.

Looking Back with Gratitude, Looking Forward with Excitement

Reaching 10 years feels both humbling and energising. We’re grateful to our tutors, who bring such dedication and heart to their teaching. We’re grateful to our graduates, whose journeys continue to inspire us. And above all, we’re grateful to every student who has chosen to spend part of their creative journey with us.

As we look ahead, our mission remains the same: to keep providing opportunities, to keep adapting to an ever-changing industry, and to keep supporting the next generation of makeup artists.

Here’s to the past 10 years of Iver, over 40 years of heritage from Greasepaint, and to the many more stories yet to be written