David Velasquez Believes Makeup Is Personal and Artistic
If you’ve ever wondered what decades in the beauty industry looks like, look no further than David Velasquez a.k.a. Mugopus. From hiding in the closet as a child playing with makeup to working with some of the BIGGEST names in Hollywood, his story is a testament to anyone who aims to make it in the beauty field. We sat down with him to talk about his love for drag, beauty trends to look for in 2026 and everything in between.
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
Tell us about your upbringing in Southern California.What was your childhood like?
Growing up in a Chicano household in Watts, California had a huge influence on who I am today. My family, culture, and community were always at the center of everything. I was raised to respect our traditions while also working hard to create opportunities for the future.
Living in Los Angeles also meant being surrounded by such a vibrant mix of cultures, art, music, and perspectives. That environment helped shape my creativity and broaden my understanding of the world. It taught me resilience and the importance of staying connected to your roots. Those experiences gave me a strong foundation and continue to influence how I approach both my work and my life today.
What is your earliest memory of your introduction to makeup?
My earliest memories of makeup come from being around the women in my life and realizing that I loved doing the same things they did. I would hide in the closet to put on red lipstick and blue eyeshadow. It gave me something to look forward to, and I was so intrigued by how uplifting someone could feel by looking good.
At the same time, I was influenced by what I saw on TV shows like Jenny Jones and Ricki Lake, which exposed me to so many different personalities and styles, especially the drag queens and club kids who appeared on those shows. Seeing that level of boldness and self-expression really stayed with me.
Between the beauty traditions I saw at home and the creativity I saw on TV, it made me want to explore more for myself. It showed me early on that makeup could be both personal and artistic—a way to celebrate who you are while also having fun pushing creative boundaries.
Growing up you fell in love with drag and all the things that come with it. Initially, what intrigued you about it?
What really drew me to drag was the fearlessness of it all. Drag artists like myself weren’t afraid to be bold, expressive, and completely ourselves. Doing drag felt like art coming to life. From the makeup to the fashion to the performance, every part of it pulled me in. I loved that I could transform myself into any character or persona I wanted to be.
It showed me how powerful self-expression could be. It wasn’t just about looking glamorous; it was about storytelling, confidence, individuality. Drag was a world with no limits. It inspired me to see makeup as more than just beauty. It was performance art and a way to celebrate who you are.
At what point did you decide you wanted to take your artistry seriously?
I think the moment I decided to take my artistry seriously was when I realized how powerful makeup could be as a form of expression. What started off as curiosity eventually grew into something I felt deeply passionate about. The more time I spent practicing the more I understood that it wasn’t just a hobby for me.
It was something I genuinely found fulfilling. There was also a point where I started noticing my work affected other people, whether it was making someone feel more confident, helping someone bring their creative vision come to life or inspiring someone else to experiment with their own look. Moments like those made me realize that make up could have a real impact.
By 16 years old you began working with Priscilla Ono as an apprentice and your story evolves from there. When you think back to your time with her, what is something she taught you that you’ve carried with you throughout your career?
Starting to work at malls at 16 was a huge moment for me, especially working alongside Priscilla Ono. She taught me the importance of professionalism and confidence in your work. Quickly, I learned that being a makeup artist isn’t just about applying makeup; it’s about how you carry yourself, how you connect with people, and how you represent your artistry. It’s also about how you make someone feel when they’re in your makeup chair.
It helped me understand early on that makeup isn’t just about the final look. It’s about the experience you create for someone. Decades later, I know that special feeling is what every client remembers most, and it brings me so much joy to provide that moment.
Throughout your long career we’ve seen many makeup trends come and go. In your opinion, what aspect of makeup artistry will never go out of style?
I think one of the beauty trends that will truly never go away is a classic bold red lip and a sharp liner. It instantly elevates a person’s presence. A red lip has always been a symbol of confidence and glamour, while a precise liner can completely define and transform the eye. I also believe the deeper trend that will never fade is confidence. Different colors, textures, and techniques will come and go, but the idea of expressing who you are through beauty will always remain.
Your signature looks are inspired by Latin beauty culture from how you define brows to sharp liner and your love of highlighting feminine features in your clients. Talk to us about how your Mexican-American roots influence your artistry.
My Mexican-American roots have been a huge influence on my artistry. Growing up, I was surrounded by rich, unforgettable traditions. Everything from the music we played in the house to the artistry of the Chicano culture I saw in my neighborhood. I remember watching cholos and cholas express themselves with bold eyeliner, bright lips, and that unapologetic attitude. That sense of self-expression taught me that makeup is a way of taking up space and claiming power, while staying connected to my roots and showing up with pride in everything I create.
When you think about your Mexican heritage, what do you love most about your culture?
I feel that my Mexican culture taught me the importance of persistence, hard work, and staying true to myself, and always striving to live a full, vibrant life.
You’ve spoken about the cultural struggles Latin families can have with LGBTQ+ acceptance and how it has fueled your resilience throughout your journey. For any young gay men currently struggling with this, what advice can you share with them?
My advice is to be patient and love yourself. Seek out chosen family, supportive friends, or LGBTQ+ groups. I was lucky enough to have a supportive mother who loved me unconditionally and gave me a strong foundation, but I know there will always be someone who has something to say. There will be doubt, but don’t let that steer you.
Just do what feels true to you and what makes you happy. Your journey is yours, and your happiness is worth every step. There’s no such thing as creating a perfect life or living a life for someone else that isn’t truly you.
Working with the biggest names in Hollywood is a skill within itself outside of your skill as a makeup artist. For those looking to follow in your footsteps, what’s something you wish you knew starting off that you’ve learned over the years?
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to focus on building genuine relationships and not just chasing the next big bag early on. I was eager to prove myself and sometimes forgot the value of collaboration and patience. When I started working with bigger names, I realized how much trust, communication, and staying true to your vision really matter. My advice is to stay consistent, be yourself, and remember that every small step and every connection counts. Trust the process. Timing is everything.
A decade ago the girls were doing bold shadow and dramatic glam and now everyone is loving the soft glam looks. What do you foresee being popular with makeup in 2026?
I feel like 2026 will bring back grunge, slept-in, messy, raw makeup. Party girl chic, but with a little more glam. I love seeing both sides of beauty and giving people the freedom to express themselves through their looks.
When you’re not on the go working on editorial shoots, red carpet glam or music videos – how does David Velasquez spend an off day?
When I’m not on set doing editorials, red carpets, or music videos, I’m actually a father of two: to my daughter London (16) and son Zeke (12). That’s another story. (Shout out to my kids and baby mama Josie—lol.) But that’s really where my heart is.
I love spending quality time with my kids, especially now that they’re getting to the age where they need guidance as they grow into young adults. I’m not perfect, but I’ve definitely lived enough life to help them understand right from wrong. I also enjoy relaxing by the water, whether it’s a beach or a lake. It helps me turn my mind off and recharge my energy.
What are you most looking forward to this year personally or professionally?
This year, I’m really looking forward to balancing both personal and professional growth. Personally, I’m eager to be more present with my kids. I want to carve out more time for my family—just enjoying everyday moments or exploring new places together.
Professionally, I’m excited to push my artistry further. There are some dream collaborations on the horizon. I’m also focusing on giving back, mentoring young artists, and staying connected to my community. I’m really excited to see how this year unfolds, both as a creative and as a dad.
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Feature Editor & Writer: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Photographer: Jora Frantzis (@jorafrantzis)
Makeup Artist: Josie Melano (@josie.melano)
Wardrobe Designers: Olive (@awlove_) , BENT KAHINA (@bentkahina)
Management: RARE CREATIVES (@rare.creatives)
