With nearly 20 years’ experience within the hairdressing industry Stephen O’Driscoll of the Hugh Campbell Hair Group feels like his career has hit a personal high. Amid fierce industry competition, Stephen was nominated for an incredible 8 categories at the Best of the Best Irish Hair Photographic Awards 2017. Armed with an unrivalled ability to push boundaries and mix genres, Stephen won Best Men’s Fashion Image and Best Fantasy Image, which served as great warm-ups for the main event – being crowned Best Irish Hairdresser of the Year 2017. What makes Stephen’s artistry really stand out is the fact that, in addition to the amazing hair creations, he also styled and photographed the entries himself. Michelle Costelloe from The Limerick Magazine chats to Stephen about his life as a multi award winning in-demand hairdresser.
Tell us about your day to day role?
My day to day role is Artistic Director within Hugh Campbell Hair Group and my job is to create exceptional commercial looks that are trend driven and bespoke to each of my clients. Precision hair cutting, colouring and dressing hair are huge part of my craft.
You are unique in the awards as you shot all of your own images…
My penultimate passion is hair photography. I started photographing my own hair creations two years ago. I completed an evening course in Limerick Senior College and this gave me the tools I need to embark on my creative journey.
Tell us about your inspirations?
I get inspired by a lot of things but primarily by fashion and art. Designers such as Alexander Mc Queen, Gareth Pugh, Masion Margiela and Comme Des Garson have a huge influence have my work. Upmost- I admire their unique perspective and aspire to creating my own. I love fashion photography and I really admire Lindsey Adlers work.
How would you describe your style?
My style is a bit transient. I love to create classic looks with a contemporary edge but I also love Avante-Garde looks that are about showcasing a different aesthetic.
How do you go about creating a look?
Sometimes a look starts from a single reference.For example my fantasy look was informed by the colouration of butterflies. It took me a year to develop. I started by experimenting with new colouring techniques and developed the look from there.
What is your dream job?
At the moment I’m loving it. I am Artistic Director in Marbles Castletroy, I get to work with a fabulous team. I get to mentor and watch our younger staff blossom and I find that really fulfilling. Someday, in the not too distant future, I would love to make it into the Irish hairdresser’s hall of fame.
What is next for you?
At the moment I am working with some stunning models to create and photograph some new looks to showcase upcoming trends for Autumn/Winter 2017 and Spring/Summer 2018.
Article by: Michelle Costello
Photograph by Stephen O’Driscoll
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