Carte Blanche: Donni Davy on the Power of Makeup in Film and TV
The following description was submitted by the event organizer.
Step into a dazzling exploration of beauty, storytelling, and transformation with Donni Davy, the visionary Emmy-winning makeup artist behind HBO’s Euphoria and founder of Half Magic. For this one-night-only Carte Blanche event, Davy takes audiences inside the power of makeup in film and television–how it shapes character, narrative, and culture itself.
The Carte Blanche series at PAM CUT’s Tomorrow Theater is a bold, visionary program that hands the reins to multifaceted artists–inviting them to reimagine the cinematic experience through their own lens. Each event blends intimate conversation, guest curation, and unbound storytelling, giving audiences a rare chance to step inside the mind of a cultural trailblazer.
ON STAGE: Donni Davy
Donni (Doniella) Davy is a 2x Emmy-winning makeup artist, department head on HBO’s Euphoria, and founder of Half Magic, making her a trailblazer in the beauty, film, and entertainment industry. Donni is a household name in the beauty industry—and now, she’s returning to the set for Euphoria Season 3. She is not only celebrated for her groundbreaking work on the show, but she’s also gained recognition for her artistry with the biggest stars of the moment, like Reneé Rapp, Mindy Kaling, and Chappell Roan, whose cultural impact has been monumental this year. Her innovative approach has redefined beauty standards in entertainment, igniting a global movement centered on self-expression and creativity. Ultimately, Donni’s impact is undeniable, with her digital presence skyrocketing 120% in Instagram impressions alone, plus a 31% increase in TikTok views between March and September 2024.
As a department head of makeup on Euphoria, Donni oversees everything from the initial character designs to final application, making sure each look supports both the character’s emotional journey and the overall story. This includes not only the makeup but also special effects, prosthetics, and intricate details that define the show’s aesthetic. Every choice, from color palettes to bold eyeliner, is made with the camera in mind—ensuring each look is both visually striking and narratively meaningful. Donni has mastered the art of using makeup as a powerful storytelling tool, transforming it into a key element that helps define the show’s characters and amplify the emotional impact of the series.