In the ever-evolving world of beauty and social media, few names carry the same weight or creative power as Pat McGrath. Known globally as the “Mother of Makeup,” McGrath has never just followed trends; she’s created them. Fresh off her work at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, the legendary artist is once again setting the standard for innovation. Now, she’s helping usher in a new era of digital creativity through her partnership with Instagram for its first-ever Instagram Rings Awards Program, which honors bold creators shaping culture online. For McGrath, the collaboration was a natural extension of her lifelong mission: to celebrate artistry in all its forms and uplift the next generation of visionaries.
“I’ve always loved innovating and thinking into the future,” McGrath says. “Being part of the first awards show designed for digital natives felt like a perfect fit. Anyone who knows me knows I live on Instagram; it’s where I find inspiration and share it with the world.”
Redefining What It Means to Be a Creator
As a judge, McGrath looked for creators who embodied courage, imagination, and authenticity. “A standout creator brings their true self to everything they post,” she explains. “It’s not about perfection; it’s about creative risk-taking and the courage to experiment.”
The Instagram Rings program marks a pivotal moment in the digital landscape. “Most creative industries, fashion, film, music have their own award shows, so it was time creators received that same recognition,” she says. “Awards like Rings show that Instagram isn’t just a platform, it’s an advocate for creators’ growth and impact.”
Social Media as the New Canvas
McGrath has long been at the intersection of art, technology, and beauty. Reflecting on how social media has transformed the industry, she emphasizes that platforms like Instagram have become creative canvases in their own right. “You no longer need a traditional portfolio; your feed is your portfolio,” she says. “Instagram functions like a living mood board; it’s where I showcase my inspirations and discover new ones every day.”
That accessibility, she believes, has democratized beauty. “It’s no longer about job titles; it’s about creativity, passion, individuality, and what you put out into the world,” she says. “It’s empowered people everywhere to define beauty on their own terms.”
The Fall Glow and Future Inspirations
When it comes to what’s trending, McGrath is all about glow this fall. Fresh off the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, she describes the look as “angelic radiance,” luminous skin, soft bronzer, and glossy lips. “It was glowy, delicious makeup that celebrated the singular beauty of each woman, beauty as transformative as the wings themselves.”
Her inspirations extend to emerging talents, including creators like Golloria, who she praises for being “fearlessly herself and making other young girls feel seen,” and illusion artist Mimi Choi, whose surreal transformations continue to leave McGrath in awe.
Advice for the Next Generation
Her guidance for aspiring creators is simple but powerful. “Find your point of view, hone it, honor it, and share it. Don’t chase trends; create moments that last. Be fearless in your experimentation and stay inspired by others,” she says. “That’s what makes social media so powerful, it’s a global conversation built on creativity.”