A new documentary-style television program titled “Maquillage : l'art de la métamorphose” examines how makeup serves as a tool for self-affirmation and artistic transformation [1, 2].
The production highlights the intersection of aesthetics and psychology, illustrating how the act of applying makeup can function as a means of personal expression and mental well-being [2, 3].
Filmed across various European cities, the program follows several practitioners of the craft. In Munich, the series features drag queen Jay Miniano, while segments in Berlin focus on the mask theatre company Familie Flöz [2]. The documentary also highlights the work of British "designer of identity" Alex Box and French 3D-makeup pioneer Ines Alpha [1, 2].
These artists use their work to demonstrate that makeup extends beyond traditional beauty standards, serving instead as a method for identity construction. The program explores how these transformations allow individuals to navigate their internal and external worlds through visual art [2].
The narrative includes perspectives on the therapeutic nature of the medium. One anonymous interviewee said, "Le maquillage m'a sauvé quand j'étais dans une mauvaise passe" [3].
The program is part of the "Twist" series and remains available for online viewing until May 17, 2027 [1].
“Makeup can serve as a means of personal expression, identity construction, and mental-well-being.”
By framing makeup as a psychological tool rather than a cosmetic necessity, the documentary aligns with a broader cultural shift toward viewing aesthetic practices as forms of mental health support and identity exploration. The inclusion of diverse artists—from drag performers to 3D-makeup pioneers—suggests a move toward a more inclusive definition of beauty that prioritizes personal agency over societal expectations.
