Further to the announcements of the results of Wella Professionals’ International TrendVision Awards, we are delighted to publish the interview with Gold Color Artist of the Year 2020, Anastasiya Kholmanskih from Russia.
Over the years Wella Professionals’ International TrendVision Awards have become one of the most coveted accolades in the hairdressing industry. Its winners often go on to become some of the most admired professionals in this craft. This year is no exception with six winners rising above thousands of entries to win a spot in the categories of International Color Artist and International Creative Artist, two of the most coveted ones amongst professional hairdressers.
“Recent world events have hit so close to home for our cherished professional community, which is all about closeness and human-to-human connection,” said Sylvie Moreau, President Coty Professional Beauty. “I’ve seen the sense of unity and strength amongst hairdressers during this difficult time and knew that celebrating these winners was not only a well-deserved recognition of their amazing talent, but a source of positive news for us all,” she continued. “Anastasiya and the other winners represent the crème de la crème of stylists, having been selected from over 9,000 entries.”
HERE IS OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH GOLD COLOR ARTIST OF THE YEAR 2020, ANASTASIYA KHOLMANSKIH FROM RUSSIA:
In challenging times like these, displays of creative excellence are even more uplifting than ever. How does it feel to be an ITVA winner in such a special year as 2020?
“This is a great honor for me. First of all I want to thank Wella company for the opportunity to grow and develop, everyone who believed in me and of course my team who helped me create this image.“
The cancellation of the ITVA Retreat in Seville has been a disappointment to every, what positive message of solidarity would like to send out to all our TrendVision family worldwide?
“Nowadays it’s a challenging situation in the world, but despite this, I urge everyone not to lose heart and in any case do not give up. This situation is given to us in order that we would become even more attentive and kinder to each other. Now is the time to pay attention to something new, look for new sources of inspiration, read books, watch movies, and spend time with your family and friends. We will definitely cope with everything and will soon overcome this pandemic.“
Explain something of your journey from first entering the TVAs in your home-country to being declared an International winner.
“Participation in the competition is always a very big responsibility for myself and my team. I was insanely worried about creating this image. It was very important for me to do it not just well, but best of all!“
Please tell us something about the creative inspiration behind your ITVA winning image?
“Creating this image, I relied on the fashion of the late 60s and early 70s through the prism of modernity. It was very important to me that my work could convey the mood of those decades while remaining modern, fashionable and inspiring.“
What do you love the most about Wella haircolor?
“I really like Wella haircolor. For me, it is important that when coloring the color turned out rich, long-lasting and the hair did not lose its quality. Lipids that are part of Wella paints allow you to achieve a stable rich color without damage the hair. Hair receives care and intensive nutrition during coloring.“
What is your specialty when it comes to hair?
“My favorite direction is color. Especially bright colors. I started studying it back in 2010.“
What is your favorite hair technique at the moment? Why?
“I don’t have a favorite coloring technique. I like everything. I especially like to combine them. Search for new solutions. The combination of techniques and colors allows you to create unique results.“
How important is hair education for you? What seminar/course changed your career?
“Combining techniques it is important to understand how to mix and match. To do this, it is very important to constantly improve your skills and devote a lot of time to professional education. The beauty industry does not stand still and every day there is something new. And in order to stay in the trend, you need to follow fashion trends and new products. I try to devote a lot of time to my professionalism. Every time I color, I try to find some new solution. Being in constant search of something new let us grow and develop. The most important thing is to constantly pay attention to the design (color and styling) and shape (haircut and overall shape of the hairstyle) and only so you can get something beautiful.“
As a hairdresser, what is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“The most important advice that I once received from my mentors sounds very banal: “Whatever happens, do not give up and do not lose faith in yourself and in your future.”
Looking to the future and a time when the world returns to normality, how do you see you career as a hairdresser/colorist evolving further as a result of being an ITVA winner?
“When we get past the pandemic and return to normal life, I would like to share my knowledge and ideas with the whole world. Continue to inspire colleagues and create something new.“