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We caught up with two of KMS’ lead artists, Edwin Johnston, global artist director, and Michael Crispel, lead artistic director, to find about where they get their inspiration, why they think education is so important and why they love working with KMS—plus finding out what their favourite KMS products are, too.

Why did you choose KMS as a brand to work with?

EJ: I was very fortunate to have discovered KMS very early in my career. I’ve been with the brand for over 25 years. My dad was a hairdresser and he carried KMS in his salon. My role has allowed me to work on their global ad campaigns, create education programs, present at shows around the world, test out new products testing and—my favourite—to work hands-on with hairstylists across the globe.

MC: I chose KMS because it allows me, as an artist, to create looks that are both wearable and fashion-forward. KMS promotes individuality for both stylists and clients. The progressive culture and fantastic and talented group of artists allow my salon to have the best of both worlds: business support, while maintaining the strong voice of a creative stylist. I feel part of a family.

Trend predictions?

EJ: Short Hair, dressing long hair, men’s grooming, colour and curl. You can’t really predict too much in today’s world, but I’m excited that hair is really relevant in fashion today.

MC: I think we will see formal hair looking more undone and carefree and long hair for men will be making a huge comeback. For colour, red is the new blonde and bright colours are becoming more and more accepted as “normal.”

Why do you think education is so important?

EJ: It’s want we signed up for. Hairstyling is a fashion based-craft. Fashion is constantly changing, so you have to educate yourself to change and to improve. There are always new ideas, new products and new innovations to learn. Education is growth.

MC: It’s the only way to grow in a world of constant evolution. Education allows you to expand on staying current and relevant and gives you the ability to generate true revenue behind the chair.

Where do you get your inspiration?

EJ: I think there’s a misconception when asking this question; Inspiration is everywhere and different for everyone.  

MC: I think we all have this kid that lives inside of us who tries so hard to fit in and be accepted and that kid is still alive inside me and inspires me to give him an opportunity to shine. I also find a lot of inspiration in being able to connect with like-minded people and watching humans achieve the unthinkable.

What is your mantra?

EJ: Live a happy and balanced life.

MC: It’s better to suck at something great then to be great at something that sucks.

What is your favourite KMS product?

EJ: There are too many to list, but at the moment FREESHAPE 2-in-1 styling + finishing spray. It’s a direct heat setting spray that allows you to manipulate the heat from flat irons and curling irons while giving you maximum heat protection and flexible hold with fantastic shine.  

MC: There are many but ADDVOLUME volumizing spray. I love that it can be used wet or after blow-drying to create volume. It’s very versatile and makes the hair more versatile, too; you can use it in different ways for creative styling or for adding hold, while maintaining a natural finish so for the client, her hair feels soft to the touch.