Krystyn J - Makeup Artist

One of the greatest honors of my nearly 20-year career as a Professional Makeup Artist has been the privilege of working with Rev. Jesse Jackson.

I first worked with him in 2011, and then again many times in 2022 and 2023 while working on a documentary about his extraordinary life. My work carried me into sacred spaces — his home in South Shore, his office at Rainbow PUSH Coalition, even onto the pulpit of his church for quiet touch-ups before he stepped forward to speak.

Over the years, I’ve learned how to steady myself when working with celebrities and notable figures. To calm my nerves, I remind myself they are simply people — human beings like the rest of us. And while that grounding has served me well, reflection has shown me something deeper:

Rev. Jackson was never “just another person” in my chair.

He was a force. A voice. A vessel of courage. One of America’s most impactful Civil Rights leaders — a man who lived boldly, led passionately, and dedicated his life to justice and purpose. To be in close proximity to that kind of legacy — not as a spectator, but as someone entrusted to prepare him before he stepped into history again and again — is something I will never take lightly.

I don’t just see it as a career highlight, I see it as a blessing.

To have served, even in a small way, a true legend — and now ancestor — is something that humbles me deeply.

His life was purpose in motion and I am so grateful our paths crossed.

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Such a honor and privilege to work again with NBA legend Derrick Rose for Mitchell & Ness. 🌹🐐 🏀