The Artidex is an artist-centered multimedia archive and creative network documenting contemporary artists through signed Polaroid portraiture, photography, documentary film, and conversation. Each participating artist becomes a numbered ENTRY within a growing physical archive that preserves not only their work, but the person, story, and moment behind it.

The Artidex Podcast extends that archive through long-form conversations, giving artists space to share their lives, creative journeys, and perspectives in their own voices. Through The Artidex Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, this work expands beyond documentation into direct artist support through grants, sponsorships, creative opportunities, and community investment.

For ENTRY #018, Gina sits down with makeup artist Leah Carmichael, whose work has helped shape the beauty and music industries for more than two decades. A former Global Makeup Artist for Kat Von D Beauty, Leah has worked across international beauty events, music videos, touring, and artist grooming, with credits connected to Beyoncé, Deftones, AFI, and Ceremony.

Having first connected online before traveling and working together in 2016, Gina and Leah reflect on their shared history, Leah’s lifelong commitment to makeup artistry, and the experiences that shaped her unmistakable creative identity. Their conversation explores technical mastery, individuality, beauty culture, authenticity, and what it means to build an enduring career without compromising who you are.

If you enjoy thoughtful conversations about creativity, independent artists, and the stories behind the work, subscribe and follow along as The Artidex documents, connects, and supports artists, one ENTRY at a time.

Follow The Artidex on Instagram: @theartidex • @ginafrey
Follow Leah Carmichael on Instagram: @iamleah

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