Sir John

Sir John Barnett, known professionally as Sir John, is a celebrated make-up artist and creative director whose career has flourished through his innovative artistry and collaborations with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. His journey began in Buffalo, New York, where he developed a passion for art from a young age. After honing his skills at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts, he moved to Atlanta to study art history, printmaking, and sculpture, where he serendipitously discovered his love for make-up during a photo shoot. This pivotal moment led to his first role at MAC Cosmetics, where he quickly made a name for himself.

Sir John’s career took a significant leap when he began working under renowned make-up artists Pat McGrath and Charlotte Tilbury. His breakthrough came in 2010 when he debuted as Beyoncé’s make-up artist at Tom Ford’s womenswear show. This partnership blossomed into a long-term collaboration, where Sir John designed iconic looks for Beyoncé’s music videos, magazine covers, and major performances, including the Super Bowl 50 halftime show and the historic ‘Beychella’ performance at Coachella.

In addition to his work with Beyoncé, Sir John has made a mark in the beauty industry as the first Black creative director for L’Oréal Paris USA and as the Chief Creative Officer of CTZN Cosmetics. His leadership roles have allowed him to influence beauty trends and promote inclusivity within the industry.

Recognized for his exceptional talent, Sir John was crowned InStyle Makeup Artist of the Year in 2016. His contributions to the world of beauty and fashion continue to inspire aspiring artists and elevate the standards of make-up artistry.