Creative Spotlight is a segment that puts some of the most talented and innovative Creators and Creatives living in Africa and the Diaspora in the limelight. It is our way of letting you discover the people behind the creative works that you see, listen to or wear on a daily basis. Today, the creative we will be spotlighting is none other than Ghanaian Visual Artist, Judah Nhyira Odei.
Tell us a little about your background.
I grew up in Ghana in a home full of creatives. From my kid sister and elder brother to my mom and dad, creativity was always around me. My dad used to make metallic pieces such as magazine and pen holders, potholders and more, while my mom wove cane into unique designs for couches, baskets, and even created paintings on jute. My elder brother dabbled in photography, and my kid sister passed time through crocheting.
Even though I did not pursue art formally after junior high school, being surrounded by it shaped how I saw the world. The constant presence of drawing, designing, photographing and creating in my family naturally drew me in, and I eventually found my own lane in makeup artistry. Looking back, it feels like art was always meant to be part of my story, just expressed through a different medium.
What inspired your brand name?
Judahsmakeover comes from my first name and the idea of transformation. For me, makeup and grooming are not just about appearances, they are about storytelling, confidence, and reshaping how people see themselves. I wanted a name that was simple, memorable, and personal, so choosing my own name felt most authentic.
What and who inspired you to choose your career?
It clicked in my late teens one day when I was viewing the explore feed of my instagram page. I saw so many aesthetically pleasing images; luxury cars, quotes, architecture, beautiful women, old relics and paintings etc. I asked myself “What is this page trying to tell me about me?” That’s when I started experimenting with the help of a friend , Raji. She helped me purchase makeup stuff little by little and was my muse back in Pentagon Hostel, Legon. I continued to practice makeup on friends. I realized I had both the skill and passion to turn it into a career. From that point, I committed to it, fully practising on almost any face I could lay my hands on. Later, global icons like Rihanna, Pat McGrath, Mario and Danessa Myricks showed me how far artistry could go.
At what point in your life did u decide your career path?
In my second semester of first year at university, I first tried learning how to braid. The cost of mannequins and hair bundles made it difficult to sustain, so I decided to pause and explore other options. In that process of searching for something that came more naturally to me, I discovered my love for the art of makeup and that became the path I chose to follow. Comparing it to the career options I had in Geography and Sociology, I decided to pursue what ignited my soul.
Details about your work? What does it entail?
As a visual artist, my work bridges makeup artistry, skincare consultancy, and creative direction. At Judahsmakeover, makeup isn’t just about concealing imperfections — it’s an art form that enhances natural features, builds confidence, and communicates identity. Our practice spans editorial, film, fashion, theater, SFX, and private clients, treating each project as a canvas for storytelling. What makes us stand out is how we balance artistry with modern innovation blending traditional techniques with emerging tools, digital references, and technology-driven ideas that keep our work relevant and impactful. We are passionate about inspiring the next generation to be experimental and expressive, while also educating people in the beauty and wellness space. Our vision is to challenge norms and position makeup at the intersection of beauty, art, and innovation thus proving that it’s more than appearance, it’s a living, evolving art form.
Your past works? People and brands you’ve worked with.
We have collaborated with artists, designers, brands, and entrepreneurs across Africa, Europe, and the United States. Notable among them are Puma, Adidas, Manju Journal, Acne Studios, Nataal Magazine, Wonderland Magazine, Dazed, Vogue, Rita Mawuena, Daniel Obasi, Ebeneza Blanche, and Amoako Boafo, among others.
Recent Notable Works
Skinworks Workshop 2025, Puma Campaign 2024, Her Prayer, Her journey (Short Film), Exhibition at the Finland Museum of Photography, Photovogue feature 2025, Open love letter ( Short Film), and Ever Young (Short film 2025).
What are you curently working on?
I am currently developing a skincare and beauty brand inspired by African practices and traditions, powered by innovation and technology. From research into indigenous ingredients to modern formulations and digital storytelling, the goal is to merge heritage with advancement and place Africa at the center of global beauty conversations.
Advice To Creatives Venturing Into Your Field
Stay original and stay disciplined. Motivation is only the spark that lights the path, but it is discipline and a clear sense of purpose that will carry you forward. This industry can be overwhelming, and trends are fleeting, but a strong niche, consistency, and community will always last. Master your craft until your work is undeniable, collaborate with others, and keep experimenting. Above all, trust the process and be patient. Growth takes time, but excellence always speaks for itself.
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