IMA & Film London Train Makeup Artists
London’s screen industries are rapidly evolving. Here at IMA, we have formed a powerful partnership that’s shaping the next wave of hair and makeup talent. Meet Film London’s Aesthetics Academy, backed by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Channel 4, with hands on training delivered by The Iver Makeup Academy here at Pinewood Studios.
Film London, aligned with the BFI’s Metro London Skills Cluster, initiated the Aesthetics Academy to champion:
- Industry diversity- particularly increasing representation within hair and makeup departments
- Bridging skill gaps- offering robust training to both newcomers and current professionals
- Career sustainability – from enriching training to meaningful mentorship that lasts beyond the course
Two Tailored Pathways
This pathway welcomes fresh talent with non-film backgrounds- artists from beauty, fashion or hair – ready to transition into screen-based work.
What they received:
An 8-week, intensive course, led by the expert team from The Iver Makeup Academy, covering:
- Special Effects
- Period Styling
- Wig Work
- Inclusive beauty techniques across skin tones and hair textures
- On-set etiquette and continuity training
Meet the Trailblazers: Aedita Murua, Dorothy Benjamin, Francess Adella George, Folake Kassim, Kirsty Oman, and Lara Shwani.
Why IMA?
Located at the legendary Pinewood Studios, The Iver Makeup Academy is a leading centre for hair, makeup and SFX training – proudly ScreenSkills accredited and backed by prestigious BAFTA scholarships.
The hands-on curriculum is guided by industry professionals like IMA Principal Liz Tagg, Tamsin Barbosa, Cherelle Lazarus, Joceline Andrews, Christine Vidler, Sophia Sestanovich and Renata Gilbert – who bring real set insights, etiquette standards, and script breakdown expertise into the academy.
Graduates from The Iver Makeup Academy have gone straight into high profile production roles – such as Wicked, Barbie, Ghostbuster: Frozen Empire as well as Marvel productions.
What’s next?
Film London’s Aesthetics Academy continues to open doors for diverse makeup artistry – backed by industry giants and shaped by the IMA curriculum. As the film and TV industries grow, so does the vibrant community of emerging professionals.
This program marks a major movement in skill-building and inclusion within the UK’s screen industries – bringing together Film London’s strategic vision, Iver Academy’s elevated training, and real-world opportunities for both emerging and established artist. We look forward to seeing new creatives enhance our screens with their talent and diverse perspectives.
Congratulations to the ‘Sony Six’ on graduating this week! From day one to the final project day, you’ve kept the energy high and the creativity flowing. See you out there!
