You’ve seen her work on Barbara Crampton in last year’s Jakob’s Wife and in many other films and shows, now meet Mary Czech in her own words.
Please introduce yourself.
Mary Czech; Wig Maker, Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist
What is it that attracts you the horror genre for your chosen field of creative work?
It’s fun! Fun to make and fun to watch!
Who inspires you in your work and in life?
Lee Alexander McQueen (may he rest in peace), Pat McGrath, music. Music inspires all aspects of my life.
What are your passions, cinematic or otherwise?
I love music, and I’m a drummer myself. I’ve also always loved the 1960s. Everything about it!
Considering this is 2022, why do you think we still need a movement like Women in Horror Month?
When I was in high school, I actually wanted to be a filmmaker, but I didn’t think it was possible because I am a woman. Also, especially in horror & special effects makeup it is very much a man’s world and extremely difficult for a woman to get her shot on her own.
What would you tell an up-and-coming creative in the world of horror who sees that being a woman/identifying as a woman as something that makes it so much more difficult at times?
Don’t give up! Everyone’s journey different. Lady Gaga’s makeup artist Sarah Tanno said she had to move back home to Ohio twice from being broke before she made it as a makeup artist. Have faith and persevere. Never stop learning and wanting to learn. Don’t be ashamed of part time jobs, the entertainment industry is rough and you never know who you will meet at a part time job!
What are your favorite bits of helpful advice that you have received about your work or your field?
Be kind to everyone, it’s a small world.
In honor of celebrating Women in Horror Month, who do you believe viewers should keep an eye on in terms of the creative ladies in horror?
Heather Buckley & Jenn Wexler for sure! I can’t wait to see more from them! Also, I have heard no one can make a blood rig as well as Ashley Stansbury!
What do you have coming soon that you can talk to us about?
Glorious was just announced! It’s a cosmic horror directed by a WOMAN! Rebekah McKendry. It is starring Ryan Kwanten (True Blood) and JK Simmons (Being the Ricardos).
What do you hope to leave behind in your legacy as an artist?
Custom wigs are harder to make & style than special effects makeup and deserve more respect. And there are more wigs in TV & Film than you realize. It’s because of great technical skill you don’t know when it’s one.
Pop them links to follow your work here:
IG: @czech_hair_makeup
Twitter: @mary_czech