Inspiration, passion, and drive — as a truly creative industry, we’re constantly on the hunt for ways to refresh and reinvigorate these. One of the best ways to do this, which is also the most wonderful aspect of the professional industry, is by meeting and sharing with other creative minds. Whether it is in-person at a show or through the incredible exposure the media devotes to salons, companies and individuals, it’s an incredible gift to learn from others to help fuel confidence and success in oneself. Roger Molina, Sam Villa ArTeam and Master Stylist at Lunatic Fringe @rogermolinahair is opening up about what makes him tick to inspire others.
Artist Spotlight: Roger Molina
What inspires you?
Dreams…the first concept for viral videos came to me in a dream. I’ve had multiple dreams that had angles or concepts, not all of them are clear on exact details, just overall concepts. And I remember the feeling or message involved usually. It’s awesome. More please!
What was your biggest “aha” moment as a hairdresser?
As a young hairdresser transitioning from the Paul Mitchell culture to Redken, it all hit me. It wasn’t just square, round and triangular (PM’s methodology) or scooping, swelling, and straight graduation (Redken’s methodology) it was all the truths of the world combined. Every brand coins their unique theory, but they all bear the same truths. I use every bit of knowledge I’ve gathered from all the teachings. From Vidal, the Mascolos, Paul Mitchell, Redken, Sam Villa…all the way to the unorthodox teachings of my session influences and beyond. It is all truth if it works for you. Don’t stick to just one, you’ll be limited by it, embrace every bit of knowledge and reset your standard over and over.
What’s unique about your teaching style?
You have to hit all the senses – sound, sight, imagination, physical touch. Visual and inspiring, illustrated and alive…speak to the heart, connect and make a difference. I also like to challenge the learner and make them think about where they are technically, spiritually and professionally. To help them find their gifts, draw them out and nurture them! To impact their life!
What is your educational focus for the next couple of months?
My focus now is teaching the foundational structures of haircutting in video form – see below. I ‘ve been gathering a solid bank of shapes and cuts, even colors on Instagram. I want people to have a play by play in their mind before they begin cutting any shape. A plan backed by flexibility and confidence. If a cut doesn’t really click, try writing down the angles. The top, back and side view is where I start. Try to map out all over directions, sections and elevations. And after the cut, go back to your chart and write the updates down. The only way to start seeing shape this way is to practice. See the most recent class on square concave layers, also below.
Can you share a moment where you knew you made an impact on a student’s learning?
I was able to teach Cut Club, the cutting program for the new stylists at Lunatic Fringe in Park City, UT. Seeing the light come on is my thing. The content on this day was concave vs round layering – a hard fought lesson always. After the cuts were done there was a look of relief on all the faces. I believe this was a huge day of breakthrough for them and many wrote messages thanking me. It’s mostly the feeling that I recall…. purposed, their understanding was my validation.
If you were stranded on a deserted island (where beauty and fashion reigned supreme) what would be the 1 tool you would bring?
My go to tool would be a Sam Villa Professional Light Ionic Blow Dryer with diffuser and a natural bristle Sam Villa Artist Series Finishing Brush. Curly hair arsenal only, haha! And if the island had no electricity, then I’d battle on with just the brush.
Sam Villa Professional Light Ionic Blow Dryer
Sam Villa Artist Series Finishing Brush
Tell us something about yourself that we don’t already know.
I’m also a musician, I play guitar, sing and write songs. I’ve been in many bands, my most prominent were Noise Ratchet and Creature and The Woods – both are on Spotify and other streaming platforms.
Book an in-salon class (hands-on and demos) and/or learn more about where Molina will be teaching here.
