Behind the brush

Kim Baker is a New York-based commercial makeup artist and former Wilhelmina Model who specializes in working with celebrities and models. Kim's unique background and approach to beauty is what sets her apart from her peers. For 20 years, Kim was in front of the camera, beginning as a size 4 model and then in the early 90s became what was considered one of the pioneers in the plus size industry.

During that time, Kim was influenced by some of the best makeup artists in the industry - Fran Cooper, Reggie Wells, Quietfire, Kevyn Aucoin and Paul Star. Her very first makeup artist, at age 13, was the legend Way Bandy.

Kim learned early on the power of great makeup and a great makeup artist; so, when she met a makeup artist who was just starting her own line, and shared her philosophy about makeup, "Don't fall into trends-just play up your best features!" Kim began working for her company. That was 30 years ago, and the makeup artist was Bobbi Brown. It was from her experience there and years in the industry that Kim was able to secure opportunities as a full-time makeup artist.

In 2006, Kim received her big break - working for Hollywood A-Lister Tom Cruise and actor Ving Rahmes for the Mission Impossible movie press junket. And the rest is history ... working with everyone from NASCAR driver Danica Patrick, songstress Toni Braxton and singer John Legend to actress Dakota Fanning and radio personality Angela Yee, to name a few, as well as on the countless TV shows including America's Next Top Model.

Today, Kim has turned her passion for beauty into working with everyday women and has created a cosmetics line to enhance that "special something" she believes everyone has that makes them beautiful - her favorite feature, their personality.