Dina, the Siberian make-up artist shapeshifting into works of art

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Siberian-born, self-taught make-up artist Dina is a master of transformation. Referencing everything from Leonardo da Vinci to Ergo Proxy to 1950s Barbie dolls, her “inspo-art make-up” process involves recreating found pre-existing imagery and documenting the results on Instagram and TikTok. Self-described as “elegant, minimalist and authentic”, her looks are usually built up from a powdered pale foundational base layered with contrasting graphic elements – a pencil-thin arched brow, a watercolour-esque smudged lip, and eyeliner made to look like painted brushstrokes.

The final images are striking and stark, with an aesthetic that borders on soft gothic thanks to her nonchalant facial expression, the moodiness of the reference images, and the use of cool tones. There’s something in the variation of eyebrow shapes (which often disappear altogether) that makes Dina’s portfolio feel like an elevated version of alternative subcultural styles – although even the heaviest metalhead or clubbiest kid performers haven’t yet conjured up a corpse paint persona this distinctive.

Currently studying design in Saint Petersburg, Dina was born in Yakutsk, Sakha Republic, where the brutally cold temperatures could reach lows of -64°C. Growing up, she was obsessed with footage of animals camouflaging themselves. “The virtuoso masters of disguise whose beauty and natural harmony left me spellbound,” she says. “They seemed to become part of the world around them, finding true freedom by merging into the colours and forms of nature.” Taking inspiration from them, she discovered make-up’s ability to transform herself, mimicking and reflecting others while still preserving her own identity. 

Read on to discover how Dina uses creativity to explore her place in the world, while building a striking legacy of work.

What is it you do and why do you do it?

Dina: I create inspiration-based art make-up, which I’m now calling ‘inspo-art-make-up’. It gives me immense aesthetic pleasure, allowing me to express my interests and moods. Applying different looks onto myself, feeling colours inspired by references that captivate my soul, helps highlight the beauty of others’ artworks and nature through my own interpretation.

How did you get into it?

Dina: As a child, I was fascinated by films depicting animals camouflaging themselves in nature: amazing insects, fish, virtuoso masters of disguise whose beauty and natural harmony left me spellbound. They seemed to become part of the world around them, finding true freedom by merging into the colours and forms of nature. Those moments planted seeds of thought regarding my place in this world.

Whenever embarking on new endeavours, I felt an internal need to imitate others, borrowing ideas and forms, but over time, I realised that copying other people’s work robs my creations of originality and authenticity. Then I discovered make-up as a way to reflect nature’s beauty while preserving my own identity. I’m far from being a professional make-up artist and often feel awkward when compared to true experts in the field. My passion lies more in exploring imagery, colour harmony, and tonal balance rather than technical skill.

How do you choose the images you replicate? 

Dina: Typically Pinterest, where there’s a wonderful collection tailored to my personal preferences. When discussing why certain paintings or photographs capture my attention, it’s primarily due to something intuitive, subtle and deeply rooted in the subconscious.

What are you trying to communicate through your work and why?

Dina: I see my work first and foremost as a means of expressing my feelings and thoughts, without trying to convince anyone or impose my views. It’s very gratifying to witness how many people resonate with my collages; I sincerely appreciate your support. Each viewer interprets my creations differently, bringing their own perspective, while some may find them hard to understand. What’s encouraging is realising that through my art, I develop my own creativity, which most of my followers notice. This boosts my confidence.

What’s your earliest beauty-related memory?

Dina: It’s truly difficult to recall since memories often distort reality.

What’s been your career highlight so far?

Dina: It’s hard to call my blog a full-fledged career, especially considering recent events in social media. I never expected talented people, including those whom I admire greatly, to start following my work. I’d like to emphasise that much of my blog’s success owes itself to the audience supporting my efforts with their attention and feedback. Every like, comment, or repost serves as motivation to keep creating and growing.

What is your current obsession?

Dina: I’m always obsessed with music; it’s my gateway to a creative mindset.

What does beauty mean to you?

Dina: Beauty to me is all about naturalness and simplicity.

When do you feel most beautiful?

Dina: When I’m leading an active lifestyle.

Are you optimistic about the future?

Dina: I’m naturally quite anxious, and I’ve developed a mindset where I don’t expect anything good.

What is the future of beauty?

Dina: The future of beauty lies in returning to each person’s inherent, genuine and unique qualities. As everything becomes increasingly accessible, maintaining creativity grows ever harder. True attractiveness begins with self-love, accepting one’s uniqueness, and freely expressing individuality.