Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
by Anne Moratto
How Their BrainWerx: An Evening with Sebastian Global Art Directors
On May 12, 2016 at the Wella Studio in Woodland Hills, CA, Sebastian Professional Global Art Directors, Michael Polsinelli and Shay Dempsey, shared a peek inside their creative process and a look at their latest collaboration, a collection they call Dark Armor.
June 2, 2016
Sebastian Professional Global Art Directors Michael Polsinelli (left) and Shay Dempsey and the wearable works of art from Dark Armor. (photo credit: June Alvarez)
June Alvarez
2 min to read
On May 12, 2016 at the Wella Studio in Woodland Hills, CA, Sebastian Professional Global Art Directors, Michael Polsinelli and Shay Dempsey, shared a peek inside their creative process and a look at their latest collaboration, a collection they call Dark Armor. Entitled BrainWerx, the evening program discussed the journey of discovery they traveled together as artists, hairdressers and friends as they went from concept to creation. The two busy road warriors discussed their realization that without exploring their interior worlds and what excites them, they would not be able to bring any of that enthusiasm back to their work with stylists and for Sebastian. Dark Armor, a collection of beautifully constructed hair head pieces, pays homage to the designers and architects that inspired them. The wearable works of art shared the stage with their makers.
ON THE ‘WHY’
“You can’t be afraid of putting yourself out there to be judged. In order to move forward, you have to expose your weaknesses.”
Michael
“It’s a personal project and a journey for us. We need an outlet and the ability to explore other work to stay inspired, and then to share that with others.”
Shay
“You have to make a promise to yourself to have that escapism and project just for yourself.”
Michael
ON INSPIRATION
"We’re asked, ‘Where do you get your inspiration?’ You can’t be creative unless you’re inspired by something. You have to be open, to be plugged in and receptive."
Michael
“It comes from without not from within. It’s something you’ve seen. You need the ability to look at something as multi-dimensional, from a 360’ view."
Shay
ON CREATIVITY
“If the mindset isn’t right, it’s very hard to be inspired. Inside has to be right, too. We all are so busy and our lives so hectic that we need to give ourselves time to shut it down.”
Shay
“It’s such a big word, creativity, and we throw it around too loosely. In order to become creative, you have to do something. It’s the process.”
Michael
On research for the project: “We rarely go on trends, we tend to go on impulse and intuition. It has to resonate with us.”
Michael
On taking this back to the salon: “It’s more about what you take back for yourself than for the client. It’s reminding you to keep working and to share your ideas and your process.”
Shay
On tools used: “Super Glue is our friend. And everybody’s got to have a Dremel.”
Michael
Final words: “You can’t be afraid of mistakes. Sometimes you just have to bin it.”
Shay
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
More Career
AI Won't Replace Your Voice—Unless You Let It
"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic
by Anne Moratto
50 Smart Things Beauty Educators Have Told Us
Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.
by Anne Moratto
What Salon and Spa Professionals Need to Know About Skin Longevity
Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.
Financial Educator Anna Manukyan Launches Masterclass for Early Career Stylists
Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.
6 Ways Self-Love Will Help You Crush Your Goals
From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.
MODERN SALON Boot Camp Heads to Austin: One-Day Beauty Business & Career Education Event for Beauty Professionals
A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.
How Michelle Bowden Had a Breakout Year (and How Other Stylists Can, Too)
From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.
Ulta Beauty and Beauty Changes Lives Launch “The Possibilities Are Beautiful” Cosmetology Student Scholarship
This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.
A Path for Everyone: Great Clips Salons Offer Diverse Career Opportunities
Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
Sponsored by Great Clips
Are Salon Suites Becoming Too Cheap? The Hidden Risks of Low Salon Suite Rent
Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.
Magical Creatures: Why These Stylists Love Creating Fantasy Hair Color
These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.
by Anne Moratto
Keratin Complex Launches KC on Tour 2026 with Tabatha Coffey
Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.
by Anne Moratto
Why Soft Skills and Client Communication Matter More Than Ever in the Beauty Industry
Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.
by Anne Moratto
Author Daniel Cubillo Drops the Blueprint for Building a Career in the Content Arena
In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.
What Custom Notifications Tell Us About the Personalized Future of the Salon Client Experience
Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.
Beautiful Careers Happen Here
Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty