MUA Patrick Ta has issued a public apology after the latest launch from his eponymous brand was met with controversy.
Patrick Ta Beauty added Transition Blush to its line-up in late May, only to be met with social media speculation that the MUA had allegedly designed the product based on a technique made popular by make-up artist Ngozi Esther Edeme, also known as Painted by Esther on social media.
Now, the MUA has expressed his remorse for “the hurt and frustration caused”.
In an Instagram post shared on 16 June, Ta wrote: “Recently, the launch of Transition Blush contributed to a larger issue than I first understood, and I want to take a moment to take accountability.
“My intention was to create a product that made a make-up technique I love more accessible.
“It was never my intention to claim ownership over a blush technique or a way of applying make-up.
“As an artist and creator myself, I now understand why Esther and others saw it through a different lens.
“I am genuinely sorry for the hurt and frustration caused.
“That was never my intention, but I have learned that impact matters more than intent.
“I understand that the reaction was not just about the product itself.
“It was about something much bigger: recognition, visibility and the experiences many creators, especially Black creators, have had when their contributions to culture are overlooked or not recognised.
“Black creators have had an enormous influence on beauty culture, trends and artistry, and that influence often goes unattributed and unrewarded.
“I have tremendous respect for Esther and for all the artists and creators who have helped shape and advance this technique.
“Artists, creators, and communities are the reason brands succeed, and I recognise my responsibility to acknowledge influence and help ensure that people feel respected, valued, and fairly supported.
“Right now, my focus is to continue to learn and find meaningful ways to support the artists, creators, founders, and communities that make this industry flourish.
“Artistry has given me my voice and my career, and it is important to me to continue to pour into and champion the next generation of artists.”
The launch from Patrick Ta Beauty comprised three new products: Liquid Transition Brightening Blush (US$34); Transition Blurring Blush Duo ($30, available in five shades); and a Dual-Ended Transition Blush Brush ($40) – sold individually or as a set for $88.
Patrick Ta’s Transition Blush collection encourages users to implement a layered technique – it is this technique that has found Ta in hot water after claiming he had “created a three-step blush technique”.
Many pointed out how the technique was recently popularised by celebrity make-up artist Painted by Esther, whose clients include singer Tyla and supermodel Naomi Campbell.
Painted by Esther, who took to TikTok on 24 May to speak on the controversy, allegedly claimed that Ta’s team had even tried to book a session with her to learn the technique.
The MUA’s video has amassed more than 4.1 million views and almost 539,000 likes.
This is not the first time Patrick Ta Beauty has faced scrutiny, with the brand previously having to defend the price of its $42 eyeshadow following backlash from consumers.
Since the controversy first arose, MAC Cosmetics has spotlighted Painted by Esther, and her long-time client and Love Island USA star Olandria [full name Olandria Carthen], for the third issue of its relaunched MACzine.
The May issue of the digital publication highlights the Estée Lauder Companies-owned cosmetics giant’s blush collection, calling on make-up artist Painted by Esther to bring the collection to life.
Cosmetics Business has reached out to Painted by Esther for comment.
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