Claire is known for her work on Sorry, I Didn't Know, Deep Heat on ITV2, Klokkenluider and the upcoming Riches. Claire is repped by Lucy Price at Loop Talent.
Claire Anne Williams
Hair & Make Up DesignerThe biggest challenge that I had and that I am sure most Makeup and Hair Artists have, is getting work in the industry when you don’t have any contacts when first start out in the film and TV industry. The only way to overcome that is to never give up and to stay positive.
WHERE ARE YOU BASED AND HOW DOES THIS PLAY INTO THE WORK THAT YOU DO?
I am London based. I think in the film and TV industry it doesn’t really matter where you live as the shoot could be anywhere in the world. This is the fun part of the job as you get the chance to travel.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A COMPOSER?
I wanted to be a Makeup and Hair artist from the age of 5 years old. But also, I feel makeup and hair choose me, my first ever job was in a department store, and they put me in the makeup department. That is where I learnt my key skills in makeup because I got to work on different skin tones and gave this job also gave me excellent product knowledge of different brands.
HAS MENTORSHIP PLAYED A ROLE IN YOUR CAREER AND TO WHAT EXTENT?
I started as a ScreenSkills trainee and along my career I have been mentored and supported by their wonderful staff and they have also helped me with regards to courses. The support they have given me has been invaluable.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST CHALLENGE YOU HAVE HAD TO OVERCOME TO GET TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW?
The biggest challenge that I had and that I am sure most Makeup and Hair Artists have, is getting work in the industry when you don’t have any contacts when first start out in the film and TV industry. The only way to overcome that is to never give up and to stay positive.
ARE THERE ANY WOMEN WHO YOU PARTICULARLY LOOK UP TO OR WHOSE WORK YOU HAVE BEEN INFLUENCED BY?
I look up to Dame Pat McGrath because her work is influential and I love how creative she is and that she is not afraid to use texture. She is a real inspiration, she is a legendary Makeup Artist.
IS THERE ANYTHING THAT WOULD MAKE YOUR JOB/ GETTING WORK EASIER?
Teamwork makes the dream work and preparation is key.
THE TIME'S UP MOVEMENT IS NOW IN ITS FIFTH YEAR. HAVE YOU NOTICED ANY CHANGES SINCE IT STARTED?
Yes, I do believe there has been change in the industry thanks to the Time's Up, Me Too and Black Lives Matter movements. I truly believe that everyone should feel safe in their work place, and that everyone deserves a right to earn a living to take care of themselves and their families free of impediments of harassment, racism, sexual assault and discrimination.
WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIALS THAT YOU TAKE TO WORK WITH YOU?
Full Makeup and Hair kit and on-set bag with my favourite product 8-hour cream.
WHAT HAS BEEN ONE OF YOUR GREATEST SUCCESSES SO FAR?
Working on the film 'Klokkenluider' was such a joy. I got to work with an amazing cast and crew and the Director Neil Maskell was a true legend, I learnt so much. And then becoming a Screen Star of Tomorrow 2021. I was over the moon when I found out I was selected. My partner and family were so proud of me.
THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS HAVE CHANGED THE WORLD AND OUR INDUSTRY AS WE KNOW IT - DID YOU DISCOVER SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF OR TAKE UP A NEW HOBBY THAT BROUGHT YOU SOME JOY?
I spent lockdown practicing SFX and hairstyling on my partner. Everyday he had a new look!
WHAT IS YOUR BEHIND THE SCENES PASSION OUTSIDE OF WORK?
Roller skating around Hyde Park.
TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF THAT MANY PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW.
I love gymnastics and used to do adult classes.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE QUOTE OR MANTRA?
Health is Wealth but I am sure my team would say my favourite quote is ETA.
IS THERE SOMETHING YOU LEARNT ON RICHES THAT YOU'LL TAKE WITH YOU ON FUTURE PROJECTS?
On 'Riches' I worked with a very diverse Makeup and Hair Team who were truly amazing, and I hope to work with them all on future projects.