Jessica
Instructor
Hey there! My name is Jess and I have been a Licensed Managing Esthetician since 2014. I opened my own Esthetics Studio in Columbus, Ohio March of 2022 and love being able to serve the residents around me. My passion for Esthetics began with an initial interest in makeup. When I was around 12 years old, I read an article from an established makeup artist in a magazine who said that no matter how great your makeup application is, if the client's skin is problematic, the final look will not be as great as it could be. There began my deep dive into what creates healthy, beautiful skin, and my love for all things skincare. I finally pulled the trigger and went to Creative Images in Vandalia, Ohio near my hometown of Dayton. I graduated November 2013 and was licensed January 2014. I began my career by working in an Ayurvedic setting and progressed to working for a Plastic Surgeon. These opportunities broadened my scope of practice and I learned about different modalities, product formulations, and how they affect the skin. I now apply this experience and education to my business and my clients and hope to help continue to share my knowledge with all of you. I look forward to meeting you to help you along your journey into this wonderful world of skin!
Gabriela
Director of Operations/Instructor
Hi! My name is Gabriela Thompson.
I have been a Licensed Advanced Esthetician since 2012 and Licensed Esthetics Instructor since 2020. I started my journey in Illinois, attending CIDESCO accredited school - New Age Spa Institute and absolutely loved my time spent there. I felt prepared for my State Board testing and the start of my career.
Shortly after I got certified, we moved to Ohio and I was working for a couple of very upscale Spas and a Medical Spa in Columbus. I always wanted to be a teacher and my dream was fulfilled when I got a position in one of the local Esthetics Schools. Shortly after I was hired I decided to open The Art Of Skin Academy and provide students with the same experience and sense of support and education I had at NASI.
I am very passionate about this fun, changing industry and all the aspects it has to offer. I hope to meet you soon!
Lauren
Makeup Instructor
I have been a makeup artist for 13 years. I started off by doing my friends makeup when we
were in college, which grew to dances, then to photo shoots, Highball, which then grew to bridal
applications. I went to the Aveda Institute in Columbus, Ohio to study esthetics. I graduated in 2013 and
immediately received my license. Since then, I have worked in a couple of day spas. I enjoy teaching my
clients about their skin and how to treat it. Makeup is my way to be creative and help my clients feel
and look beautiful.
Rylie
Lash Education Instructor
Rylie Blankenship, owner of Pretty Girl Esthetics and Pretty Girl Studios, teaches Lash Extensions and Brow Shaping at Art of Skin. Rylie has been a Lash Technician for over 5 years and is now a Board Certified Instructor. Rylie's classes combine a deep theoretical foundation with hands-on training. Passionate about mentoring, ensures her students not only earn their certificates but also gain a lasting understanding and support in their beauty careers.
Sam
Instructor
With a lifelong love for makeup, Sam began her artistic journey at Aveda Advanced Academy and honed her skills in cosmetology at Nationwide Beauty Academy. This foundation led to a successful 15-year career specializing in airbrush and special effects makeup. Her work has graced prestigious events like New York Fashion Week and been featured in renowned publications like Vanity Fair.
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Sam's passion extends far beyond makeup artistry. A self-proclaimed "product junkie" and entrepreneur, she holds an MBA and has channeled her knowledge into founding beauty businesses, including her own organic skincare line. Sam is a dedicated educator, passionate about sharing her expertise with students and salons across the country. She is excited to be part of The Art of Skin and continue her journey of creative collaboration and empowerment.
Sam believes that each one of us is the greatest vessel for our own biggest dreams. She continues to enthusiastically pursue enterprise and creative collaboration. She is beyond honored to be a part of your Esthetics journey at The Art of Skin.