 6 Nov 14 We recently had one of the two original founders of MAC cosmetics, started right here in Toronto, Frank Toskan, come on set to Pie in the Sky studio to be interviewed. I have always been a fan of their great quality cosmetics and obviously they are a world famous name especially in the film and glamour industry, where makeup, use of, is an essential ingredient to any great shot. Up to this point, my personal experience with this company was obviously their beauty products but definitely great customer service throughout their outlets has always struck me as singular, as well. I think a few other noteworthy points they possess as they move forward into the future under the guidance of current group president John Demsey are worth repeating so I chose to highlight MAC this week, not only to thank Frank, one if it's originators, for coming to the studio but to help further support and share some great info about not only the business itself but it's social conscience. For a little backstory, along with new colours and shades they cooked up in their kitchen in the early 80s to supply the industry demand, by the time they'd officially launched in 1984, service was one of the key elements that boosted them into the spotlight as they were staffed with professional makeup artists, which was an innovation at the time. Through great word of mouth and a major break with an early released intense matte red lipstick photographed on Madonna who later donned her own MAC t-shirt, they took off and have continued to expand ever since. Over the years, MAC itself has tried to support and promote the idea of cruelty free products and as a leading brand the world over they still do try to champion this stance. They will only test on animals if it's required by law, per their own published policies. This is a step in the right direction. One of the most impressive aspects of MAC is their contribution to addressing the AIDS epidemic which escalated in 1994. In response, they launched the MAC AIDS Fund, whereby 100% proceeds from any Viva Glam product (lipsticks, lip glosses and holiday sets) went towards aids research. The latest figure we just got on set was that to date they have raised 300 million which has gone directly to said cause. What I think is commendable above the already obvious, is the high profile celebrity endorsement to promote this funding campaign to popularize it even further. Superstars from Elton John and Lady Gaga to Rihanna have gotten on board. The campaigns are flashy and sexy as to be expected and all for a greater cause as well. I included a shot below of a Rihanna ad endorsement of Viva Glam that sure packs a punch and exemplifies an artist expressing their personality in the name of something they believe in through aesthetics. All told, I think that MAC, a huge franchise started out of the kitchen of a salon, has, despite becoming the giant of today, given a personal touch of humility to the glamour industry and we were privileged to have such an influential individual drop by at Pie in the Sky. Thank you Frank for all you've done so far and here's to your continued success! 
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