ARTISTS WITHIN MAKEUP ACADEMY
Established 2003 . Accredited Diploma Programs . International ITEC Recognition . Thousands of Graduates
About artsits within
Success
For over two decades, Artists Within Makeup Academy has been dedicated to training the next generation of professional makeup artists.
Founded by industry veteran Tara Cowles, the academy was built on one simple belief: makeup education should prepare artists for real careers — not just teach techniques.
Today, our programs combine decades of industry experience with modern virtual training, allowing aspiring artists from anywhere to access a professional education.
EXPERIENCE
Tara Anand Cowles has spent more than 30 years working in the beauty industry as a professional makeup artist, educator, and mentor.
Her career has taken her across multiple areas of the industry — from film and television to editorial, bridal, fashion, and education. Through these experiences, Tara saw a gap between traditional beauty education and the real skills artists need to succeed professionally.
In 2003, she founded Artists Within Makeup Academy in Calgary with a vision to create comprehensive, career-focused training programs designed to truly prepare students for the industry.
Every course offered by the academy was developed by Tara herself, built carefully from the ground up with attention to the smallest details.
GLOBAL
Since opening its doors in 2003, Artists Within has trained thousands of aspiring makeup artists through professional diploma programs.
The academy became known for its high standards and accredited training, including:
• Fully accredited diploma programs recognized within the province
• International ITEC approval
• Eligibility for government-sponsored student loan assistance
Our programs have helped graduates launch careers across many areas of the beauty industry.
ARTISTS WITHIN EVOLUTION
As the beauty industry evolves, so does education.
After more than two decades of in-person training, Artists Within has transitioned to a fully virtual training model, allowing students to access the same trusted curriculum from anywhere in the world.
This modern format offers flexibility while maintaining the professional standards the academy has been known for since its founding.
Students can now train at their own pace while still receiving structured, industry-focused education.
The Founder
Tara Cowles
Professional Makeup Artist & Educator
Founder of Artists Within Makeup Academy
30+ years industry experience | 2003–Present
Tara has spent over three decades working in the makeup industry as an artist, educator, and mentor. Her international experience across multiple areas of the field has shaped the programs she created — training designed not just to teach makeup, but to prepare artists for real careers.
Every course was built from the ground up by Tara herself, with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on developing confident, industry-ready professionals.
In 2003, Tara founded Artists Within Makeup Academy in Calgary with a vision to create one of the most comprehensive makeup training programs available. Over the years, the academy became known for its high standards and accredited diploma programs, including international ITEC approval and eligibility for government-sponsored student loan assistance.
Today, the academy has evolved to meet the changing needs of modern students. The same trusted curriculum is now delivered through a fully virtual training platform, allowing aspiring makeup artists from anywhere to access the education, mentorship, and industry knowledge that has shaped thousands of successful graduates.
OUR FOCUS
Our programs are designed to give students more than just technical skills.
They focus on developing:
• Professional makeup artistry techniques
• Industry knowledge and standards
• Confidence in real-world application
• A strong foundation for building a successful career
The goal has always been the same — to graduate artists who feel prepared, capable, and ready to work.
Our Academy
Since 2003, we’ve been training the next generation of makeup artists.
Today, our academy operates fully online, giving students the flexibility to learn from anywhere while keeping pace with the modern beauty industry.
Our programs offer a complete 360° approach, from foundational training to real-world experience, inside our inclusive virtual learning community.
What Our Students Go On To Do
Where Our Graduates Go
Artists Within programs are designed to prepare students for real opportunities in the beauty industry.
Our graduates have gone on to work in areas such as:
• Film and television
• Fashion and editorial
• Bridal and special events
• Retail artistry for major beauty brands
• Freelance makeup artistry
• Building their own beauty businesses
With a strong foundation in professional techniques, product knowledge, and industry standards, students leave the program with the confidence to begin working in the field.
Let's connect!
Curious about our programs or how virtual training works? Reach out anytime, we’re here to answer your questions and help you take the next step in your makeup career.
