Best known for her work on Law & Order SVU and The Punisher, Shari Besanceney's journey, from beauty school student to wig designer on Broadway and television, has taught a great many things. As a department head, she gives plenty of advice on delegating tasks based on the strengths of others; fostering trust with artists; and, creating realistic designs in the story and on the set.
DT: Shari, I consider you a quiet storm when we are in the HMU room and or camper together. I've seen you work magic with wigs from your archives with a limited budget. And a clear understanding of all hair types and textures.
I think your practice of staying centered through meditation and your awareness of energy is definitely part of it.
DT: How long have you been a hairstylist? When did you enter the world of film and television?
SB: I have been a hairstylist since 2007. And, I started in film and television in 2013, with my first TV projects, including Marvel's Luke Cage, The Punisher, and others. I also worked Metropolitan Opera for a year and worked with my mentor Tom Watson for three years.
DT: Share some of your favorite hair products or treatments.
SB: I love the Shu Uemura BB Serum that detangles the hair and gives it a softness, volume, and great on fine hair. It's ideal for blowouts. Also, the Wonder Worker is great for air drying.
DT: How important are hair trends to you?
SB: Not super important to me, it all depends on hair type and the frequency of styling you need or want. It is more about getting a trim, but if you have a precision haircut, there will be a lot more upkeep.
DT: What intentions have you set forth for the new decade?
SB: Wow, I think I will approach clients with the same type of compassion I give to myself. You never know what people are going through.
DT: What lesson would you share with your younger self?
SB: Two words, "BE PATIENT." You can learn something from everybody no matter at what level.
DT: What is your Purpose? Passion? Inspiration?
SB: My purpose is always changing. When I was younger it was about being creative in my work. I think I am still evolving as a human being on this planet.
Art is one of my passions; being creative and seeing new things feed my soul. Music is another strong passion of mine. As well as, self-improvement and psychology.
What inspires me is all of the things above and the diversity of it all.
DT: Finish this sentence, "the shift I would like to see in the world is…"
SB: "…extending more compassion to all beings".
Name: Shari Besanceney
Job Title: Hair Dept. Head
Instagram: @shariannb
Website: www.sharibesanceney.com
