Claire Rivals: The Unsung Makeup Artist Behind Cannes’ Glamour

For four years, Claire Rivals has been a vital part of the behind-the-scenes team at the Cannes Film Festival, crafting the looks of celebrities and influencers who grace the red carpets. This Ariégeoise makeup artist, now 29, has built a career that blends precision, discretion, and a deep passion for her craft.

The Daily Ritual of a Cannes Makeup Artist

Each day at the Hotel Le Majestic in Cannes, Rivals moves from room to room, her black case in hand, preparing stars for their appearances. “I enter the intimacy of the personalities,” she explains. Her routine begins early, with meticulous preparation of tools and products, followed by a tight schedule that allows only 30 minutes per client. “The pressure is on us, but we don’t show it,” she says, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in a high-stakes environment.

From Local Roots to International Recognition

Rivals’ journey began with studies in aesthetics, later specializing in beauty and artistic makeup. Her career took off with events like Miss France, Paris Fashion Week, and collaborations with luxury brands such as Dior and Chanel. By 2017, she had earned the title of “second-best makeup artist in France.” Despite her success, confidentiality remains a cornerstone of her work. “We can’t reveal who we’re working with,” she notes, highlighting the trust required in her role.

Mentors and Memorable Encounters

Among her notable experiences, Rivals recalls working with James Lafferty, star of *One Tree Hill*, and Adriana Karembeu, whom she describes as “incredibly simple” to work with. However, not all assignments are straightforward. A 2019 encounter with an American actress from *CSI* required over two and a half hours of meticulous work, a challenge she remembers with a laugh.

Future Ambitions and Personal Projects

While Cannes remains a key part of her career, Rivals is setting her sights on new horizons. She is preparing to open a high-end salon in Pamiers, set to launch in September, where she aims to share her expertise through skincare, makeup, and beauty workshops. Yet, her