Ivanka takes first place in prestigious Make-up Artistry competition

A Make-up Artistry student has won a prestigious industry competition with a look inspired by her zodiac sign.

Ivanka Troncheva, who’s currently in the second year of her Foundation Degree, placed first in the Creative Front Cover (Student) category of the Professional Beauty Makeup Competition in London.

She was tasked with producing a detailed and intricate look worthy of a front cover, in just two hours, based on the theme of the zodiac.

Speaking about how she approached the brief, Ivanka said: “I conducted some research in the field of the elements matching the zodiac related to my chosen category, and it has provided me with a clear direction to follow, the Cancer star sign.

“My idea incorporated a modern interpretation of the elements and geometric shapes in the model's hair. The large circle attached to the hair represents the moon because this is close to my star sign, and the elements that I find most significant are depicted on the face (water and fire). My work is showcasing the connection between the elements, the moon, and the zodiac through my creation.”

Ivanka crafted her winning look on model Balikis Akindiya, a model she connected with via Instagram.

“I knew from the beginning what I wanted to do,” Ivanka continued, “And I also had a vision of who my model would be for this look, having worked with Balikis before.

“The first time I meet her I was fascinated by how professional she is and that's why I decided to ask her to be my model on the Professional Beauty Makeup Competition.

I am obsessed with my final look and it felt fantastic to win.

Anna-May Stock, Make-up Artistry tutor at UCEN Manchester, added: “I was delighted to hear the news that Ivanka won first place in the competition. She always put 110% into all of the looks that she creates and we are sure that this will be the first achievement of many.”

Michael Walsh, Dean of UCEN Manchester, added: “Huge congratulations to Ivanka on her success. It’s great to see our students entering these industry competitions and showcasing their immense skill. 

“Our Make-up Artistry students continue to blow me away with their creativity and this is no different. They are a credit to their tutors and to UCEN Manchester.” 

As she approaches the final few months of her Foundation Degree, Ivanka plans to progress to the BA (Hons) Make-up Artistry programme next year, in order to reach her career goal of becoming a make-up designer.

She said:

In my first year of studying, I started almost from scratch but I have built up so many skills since then because of our exceptional tutors and staff members.

“I’ve been so inspired by every single module on the Foundation Degree course and I’m working so hard to learn new skills and techniques. My priorities are to build my portfolio and take work experience opportunities to enhance my CV.”

You can find out more about courses in our School of Art, Media and Make-up and find out how to apply today.