Legendary Costume Designer Crimsyn Talks Career, Support, And Social Media

Virginia-based, makeup artist and costume designer, Crimsyn has certainly been busy during COVID, not only growing their Instagram following [@crimsyn.co] but also has introduced online drag classes, a Youtube channel, and an Etsy store.

This up-and-coming self-proclaimed “Bedroom Queen” has made the downtime during the last year werk in their favor. When asked how the current social climate affects their Drag, Crimsyn explains “I most definitely think all drag is valid! I believe that the online social climate is becoming more open to it. The community that I have created online seems to be such a positive creative growing space that people love to learn and chat with each other! I will say, the popularization of drag in the mainstream media is definitely helping with the mass acceptance of such a crazy, dramatic art form.” In light of this, Crimsyn doesn’t typically follow popular makeup trends. “Anything that would come close is probably the makeup transitions that TikTok makes popular, but with the originality of their makeup, they tend to take pride in making their own trends!” They find much of their inspiration through nature, such as plants and animals. They believe that the organic designs produced by living beings can inspire new makeup looks, and has found that their increased popularity has enabled them to advocate for themselves and their community by inspiring people to inspire themselves. 

Without the current online mentors, Crimsyn had to pave their own way, as online resources were scarce when they began their drag journey. “I did not know anything about makeup when I was growing up. I had never even touched makeup until I was in college, and the idea of online makeup artists was just starting to come to life on social media. I always took art classes in school, and as soon as I discovered what makeup was, I utilized it more like paint and my face was the canvas. So all the makeup inspiration would probably come from the fine arts world when studying the art of painting (acrylic and oils).” This traditional background in fine art has springboarded Crimyn’s career and is now the foundation for their artistic platform, both in makeup and costume design. Conversely, Crimsyn’s fine art background has been modernized by their affinity for video games. “I really enjoy video games! I played many video games growing up, so anytime I am able to go back and play video games in my free time it always brings me joy! Typically as I am working on projects, I am watching new game releases and people playing through different gameplay techniques and such.” The juxtaposition of traditional and pop culture has brought a unique aesthetic to Crimyn’s lewk which undoubtedly attracts vibrant young followers to their online presence. 

Crimsyn’s most loyal cheerleader is certainly having a supportive parent. “My most loyal advocate/supporter would definitely have to be my mother. She has helped me so much as a business and in trying to excel myself forward. My mother helps gather people to come to my gigs and always brings all her friends to support me! I feel extremely proud to have such a strong support system at home.” 

Having a rockstar mom comes in handy for all drag queens. Their mom supported them even throughout the awkward phase during which Crimsyn cosplayed as Patrick Star from Spongebob at conventions whilst performing anecdotes from the cartoon’s various episodes. Despite the current glitz and glam, Crimsyn happily confesses “Haha, I am a bit of a goofball underneath all the makeup!” 

We all love our perfect queens, but it’s important to humanize them. Speaking as a teen queen myself, I appreciate Crimsyn’s relatability and will eagerly be following their journey!