Text and photos by Kabira Akintayo

The question I get the most is “Is it Photoshop?” [laughs]

I got the idea of using the different colors of the LGBTQ+ flags last year, in May, on International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. I had decided to dedicate the entire month to showcasing LGBTQ flags by using their colors in makeup.

Through my art, I want everyone to see my community for what it truly is: vibrant, colorful, stunning. I want us to be proud of who we are and for people to understand that there is no shame in being part of the LGBTQ community.

My name is Akintayo Kabira, I am a student and a makeup artist. I am a big fan of makeup and I love drawing. One night, I was having fun drawing patterns on my face with makeup and I found it beautiful. I took pictures and shared them on social media and got a lot of positive feedback. That’s how it all started.

My creations are a sort of tribute to the LGBTQ community. I usually work when I am inspired and that is often at night. Since I work on my face most of the time, the first step is to make a draft to get an idea of the result. Then comes the actual shaping, the addition of colors and the finishing touches. I use a lot of neon colors. It allows me to create a vivid effect and have a beautiful result.

You can find me on Instagram and Facebook under the name Bira’licious.