The Artist

This month we caught up with Rosie Briscoe, whose passion for fashion and textiles has evolved into a career that merges the worlds of hair and art

What’s your current role in hair?

I’ve recently made the decision to move from being behind the chair, to to creating content for Matrix’s online education team.

How did you get to where you are today?

One of the first ever hair competitions I entered was Matrix Destination Fame and I knew then that I’d like to be an artist for the brand. Having recently gone freelance too, it means I can use my time how I wish to – so I split my time between clients and creative work. It took me years to get loyal clientele and to be able to charge what I do now. I’ve got to the point where I don’t have to be behind the chair every day. I now prioritise doing other types of creative work too.

Which do you enjoy most - working with hair or with visual art?

I couldn’t possibly choose – one inspires the other. I love doing visual art as it’s a new chapter for me, but it’s all inspired by hair and haircare. I love colour and texture because it’s all connected – hair and fabric have very similar properties.

What would you say is your biggest achievement in your career?

It’s still got to be winning North Western Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards with my work colleague Brent Barlow. I love photographic work and the creativity of it.

What is the greatest challenge you have faced in your career?

I think lockdown has been the hardest thing to deal with so far. I had just gone freelance so unfortunately I didn’t get any government help.

Instead, I used the time to upskill in hair and art making sure that, when places did open, I’d be ready. But I definitely found not being able to work in the salon a challenge, especially not having the clients to chat with.

What advice would you give to people who want to get into the hair  industry after artistic training?

I think having an artistic background can really elevate you. I went to art school and it made me understand colour and form really well. I also think it’s a great direction for creatives who like being around people. I would tell anyone to train in hair and for the creative types to get into the photographic side of the industry. Competitions are a really great way to start.

What is your signature hair look?

I do a lot of balayage– I love hand painted techniques!

What’s your favourite Instagram account?

@alainawaller is great for fusing hair and art. @drawingcabaretcouture does fashion life drawing and amazing visual art and wigs.

What’s next for you and your career?!

I will continue to bring together the worlds of hair and art. At a recent live event with HJ and Matrix I created bespoke hair illustrations and I’d love to do more of this. Long term, who knows? I love taking my career in new directions so I will keep doing that and see where it takes me.