By: Alva Ree 

Dana Lekus is a leading makeup artist, hairstylist specializing in evening looks, and brow expert with over nine years of professional experience. Her name is now synonymous with excellence in high fashion and beauty. In 2025, she was honored with the Best International Makeup and Brow Artist award at the prestigious International Beauty and Fashion Award in New York. Her journey is a powerful testament to how dedication, passion, and an unshakable love for the art of transformation can lead to international acclaim.

How did it all begin?

My journey into the beauty industry didn’t begin on glamorous runways or under studio lights. I studied electrical engineering and energy systems at university and completed a master’s degree. But deep down, I knew that path wasn’t truly mine. After graduating, I spent a year searching for my purpose. I’ve always been captivated by the power of beauty—how the right look can reveal someone’s personality, confidence, and individuality. So I boldly decided to pivot my career toward the world of beauty and image-making.

Creativity has always been in my blood. I was raised in a home full of inspiration: my mother is a designer, and my father is an architect—both graduated with honors. I was surrounded by sketches, colors, and ideas from a young age. Growing up in this artistic environment nurtured my eye for aesthetics and my desire to create. Makeup became my medium of choice—a way to blend technique, visual harmony, and human connection.

I started from the ground up—studying relentlessly, practicing even more, and learning classic and modern techniques. Gradually, I built a reputation for excellence and earned the trust of clients and professionals alike. Soon, my work was being noticed beyond my hometown. That led to my first editorial shoots, fashion shows, collaborations with celebrities, and work with renowned brands. And that’s how my journey into the world of international fashion began.

Today, I proudly lead the Dana Lekus Beauty Team, a group of talented and passionate volunteer artists who dedicate their time and skills to the world of fashion, beauty pageants, and creative productions. We are united not by contracts, but by shared purpose and enthusiasm—we contribute to major events as volunteers, working behind the scenes with true professionalism, love, and pride.

I continue to mentor aspiring artists, and I grow every day—as a professional, as a creator, and as a woman. Above all, I strive to be a living example that no path is ever too difficult when you’re genuinely passionate about your craft.

What do you consider your signature style in makeup and brow artistry?

My signature makeup and brow design style is about achieving a harmonious balance between natural beauty and artistic expression. For me, makeup is not just a surface enhancement — it’s a helpful tool for revealing a person’s inner world, energy, and individuality. I sincerely believe that makeup should amplify someone’s unique features, not mask them.

On one hand, I gravitate toward refined natural aesthetics — radiant, “alive” skin, elegant textures, and ideally groomed yet naturally shaped brows. This kind of makeup looks timeless, luxurious, and sophisticated. I especially love applying this approach when working with models and beauty pageant contestants who aim to enhance natural features without overpowering them.

Recently, I served as the lead makeup artist and hairstylist at Florida Men’s Fashion Week, a major fashion event in Miami. One of the show’s memorable moments was a live performance by the creative artist Artlanta, known for his unique and bold approach to fashion and art. The performance featured over 20 models showcasing a collection by designer Olga Nikoza. I was fortunate to lead the backstage beauty team and have the opportunity to create the makeup look for Artlanta himself.

We crafted my favorite type of look for the models — soft waves, radiant skin, and subtle makeup that emphasized their natural beauty and uniqueness.

On the other hand, my experience working with fashion shows and creative collaborations gives me the freedom to explore bold, experimental styles. In fashion and artistic makeup, I love playing with unusual textures, unexpected color combinations, and even theatrical elements. For the show of designer Vanilson Viegas, founder of the Angolan brand Vieg Yuro, also featured during Florida Men’s Fashion Week, my team and I created a series of vibrant, artistic looks inspired by African aesthetics. It was an incredibly fulfilling creative moment — I love opportunities like this, where I can step outside traditional beauty boundaries and bring bold visions to life.

So, my “signature” combines fine aesthetics, respect for individuality, and fearless creativity. I enjoy working across various styles, but I always aim for every makeup look I create to feel beautiful, meaningful, and alive.

Published by Jeremy S.