Today we’d like to introduce you to Sherryn Lynne Smith.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Sherryn Lynne. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My story I suppose is unusual – as is the case for many people I meet in this industry.
I grew up in the Leominster, MA – daughter of a grammar school principal and an X-nun/day care provider… never in a million years would I have anticipated that this would be the foundation location for a career in film.
I traveled to Los Angeles to attend the University of Southern California to study theater and film – but cut that journey short to return to Leominster to give birth to my son Christofer…
After returning to Leominster, I finished my up my education earning my degree in Theater/Film from Emerson College… and began an unanticipated career as a Film Makeup Artist.
Since this time (and thank god for the tax incentive!), I have worked on countless projects as a Makeup Artist including Shutter Island, Equalizer1&2, SuperTroopers 2 and Manchester by the Sea, for which I and my Department Head were nominated for a Makeup award through our union.
I have also managed to dabble a bit in some acting work and have signed with acting agents on the west coast.
I recently completed a fab film called “Sweeney Killing Sweeney” which stars comedians Lenny Clarke, Frank Santorelli, Tony V, Jonathan Katz, Steven Wright and of course, my favorite… the marvelously hilarious and kind comedian, Steve Sweeney.
This movie Premieres Sept 11 at the Somerville theater serving as the opener for the Boston Comedy Fest. Tickets are available at sweeneykillingsweeney.com.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Interesting question… in no way has this road been smooth or predictable. Never in a million years would I imagine that returning to Leominster, as a penniless single mother would lead to a successful road in filmmaking.
It’s truly a miracle… financially, I was holding on by a literal thread for years… living at times so far below the poverty level that looking back, I’m head scratching.
But low and behold, the tax credit saved me and many other local, struggling, determined film artists… and now, there is a working major motion picture studio 10 minutes from my residence in Leominster, the miracles never cease.
What should we know about Makeup Artist for Film/Television & Occasional Actress? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a self-taught makeup Artist for Film/Commercials/TV. I do beauty makeup, wounds/prosthetics (Shutter Island, Patriots Day, Stronger), and have even pulled off old age (PBS)… as for most proud… Department Heading Super Troopers 2 nearly killed me – and considering the various face painting, body painting (thank you, Julie &Melinda for your help 🙏), teeth removal and minor FX… I’d have to say I’m most proud of that… other runner ups are Shutter Island, Patriots Day, and Stronger – I love doing FX/wound work – I find it artistically elevating… ❤️
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
The makeup field is dominated by female leaders. Although I see amazing men in this industry leading also – I do feel both sexes are given a pretty fair shot in this arena.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: #sherrynlynne
- Facebook: @SherrynLynneSmith
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Image Credit:
Claire Folger (Black and White Image)
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