Lisa Howard: In Sweet Salting

Photos by Sean Forman

Sweet Salting is Lisa Howard – a designer, makeup artist and creative director for Toronto musician John O’Regan (also known as Diamond Rings). Howard grew up in a small town, and her artistry and attraction for detail work came from her adoration for her mother, who was a textile artist. And her curiosity – like watching her mother put on her face every morning – helped form the artist she is today.

Howard’s relationship with Diamond Rings stretches beyond mere business. Howard and O’Regan are cousins. The two grew up together, so if there’s anyone who can manipulate and style Diamond Rings’ bold and daring looks, it’s Howard.

How did you come up with the name “Sweet Salting” and what does it mean to you?

Sweet and Salt’ing’ are two very different flavours; juxtaposed. I personally have many different loves and interests. I like complicated objects, literature and personalities. I like the idea that something or someone can be very sweet but have an equal part of savoury energy, or edge.

When did you know you wanted to be in fashion/to be a makeup artist?

I’ve known that I wanted to work in fashion since I was very young. I grew up in a romantic country home. We didn’t have cable so my access to an urban lifestyle or hip fashion was limited. Luckily, that didn’t stop me from taking great care in every outfit I wore, makeup I applied or just generally being certain of my taste. My mother had (and still has) great taste. She is a visual and textile artist. I watched and admired her level of precision when it came to creating or buying art, clothing, makeup, skin care, hair care etc. She often spared no expense when it came to something that she felt was aesthetically pleasing. Things that most people would consider luxury items were often imperative to her. I inherited this way of thinking and existing. I don’t mean to say that I consume a lot. I don’t. I just know what I like and surround myself with those things, ideas and people.

What would you say is the most difficult part about your profession?

We are constantly in transit. I love that I get to meet new people, explore new cities or become comfortable in cities other than Toronto; but the best way to describe being on the road is a constant feeling of being late for every meeting or event. It doesn’t matter if you’re on time or not. It’s a constant mental adjustment from transit to business, city to city. Even though you’re totally prepared, it takes a minute to adjust. I don’t like those moments of adjustment.

Who were your influences growing up and why? And how would you describe your own aesthetic?

My mom and grandmother heavily influenced my style growing up. My mom is also a seamstress and made clothing that she couldn’t afford to buy. We spent a lot of time in Fabricland. I remember her describing the pattern she was using and what types of material would be appropriate and why. Then she would let me run around the store and pick something out. Whatever pattern or colour I wanted. We spent a lot of time analyzing fabric and patterns. I also had a Barbie room. Barbie’s outfits were pretty hot. I thought she was a babe and kind of wanted her life. My own aesthetic is always changing. I believe that if I stay open-minded and tapped into my own intuition, my aesthetic appreciation will continue to increase and grow.

You tour with John O’Regan (Diamond Rings) as his personal makeup artist and creative director. What has been the most rewarding aspect of this?

The most rewarding part of working with Diamond Rings as his creative director and makeup artist has simply been how much has been accomplished in a short period of time. The project has just grown in leaps and bounds. It is amazing to look at where we’ve come and then look to where we’re going. Diamond Rings has been so well received by so many types of people. I find it addictive being able to connect with people through this medium.

And what about this persona you help create for John O? How would you describe his look?

I would describe Diamond Ring’s look as unique, authentic and honest.

I found Diamond Rings’ video for “It’s Not My Party” really heartbreaking to watch. Can you speak a little bit about that video and the inspiration behind the makeup and styling you did for that piece?

“It’s Not My Party” was a hard video to shoot. I agree the end result was heartbreaking and that’s why I love it. The character I created was an over-the-top, hyper focused part of John transformed into a literal creature that is mentally and physically tormented. John and I had been tossing music video treatment ideas around for a while. Jeff Scheven (the director) took the initial ideas, ran with them and created magic. The shoot itself was the coldest night of the year. We shot for fourteen hours. John had frostbite the next day. It was the kind of cold that makes you want to lie down, fall asleep and not wake up. I really think that translates to the video; it is undeniably honest and raw.

What activities outside of fashion do you enjoy?

Outside of Fashion, I enjoy simple things. My family has a cottage in the Kawartha Lakes. It’s my favourite place in the world. If I’m not working you’ll likely find me there on the dock in the summer or in front of the fireplace in the winter with my latest New Yorker in hand. Or studying. I’m working on an English Degree right now.

What has been your favourite city you’ve visited for far?

I LOVE New York. I also love Austin. Quebec City is wild and the people there are amazing.

- Lisa Howard, Sweet Salting
All photos by Sean Forman