In the ever growing world of Georgia film and television production, Local 798 makeup artist Priya Maharaj is not only a rising star, but a trusted staple in the community of Atlanta pro makeup artists. Her steadfast commitment to teamwork and artistry have made one of the most sought after artists in the industry. She has taken the reigns as Department Head on such projects as Ruthless, The Oval and All The Queens Men and has been a part of the team on dozens of productions including Ms. Marvel, Monarch, Secret Headquarters, Lodge49 and Madea Homecoming. We asked Priya to share with our readers the must-know spots for pro artists to restock, recharge and relax when working in Atlanta.
1. NORCOSTCO
Established in1884, Norcostco is a pro makeup artist’s dream. Your one stop cosmetic supplier geared toward pros in every part of the industry — film, television, bridal, fashion and more. When I’m gearing up to department head my various projects, Norcostco is my first stop Meghan, Mary, and Ash are always on hand to support and go the extra mile every time. @norcostcoatlanta
2. DECATUR HEALING ARTS
Working in the film industry can be taxing on our bodies and minds at times and whenever I need a little boost after wrapping up a long TV/Film project, there is nothing like a little energy healing session to get me going again. I love visiting Decatur Healing Arts and receiving an energy tune-up from my favorite energy healer Chandra like Lotus Healing and Energy, Sound and Tuning. @chandra_energy_medicine
3. THE ATLANTA BELTLINE
The Atlanta BeltLine trail is an old rail corridor, turned greenspace and art exhibit. It is a nice escape into nature in the middle of the busy Atlanta streets. The Eastside trail of the BeltLine runs from Piedmont Park to Reynoldstown. Walking along the BeltLine you are sure to see a myriad of unique art that represents artists from across Atlanta featuring sculptures, murals, music and dance. @atlantabeltline
4. MODERN HOLISTIC
One of the top Holistic facialists in Atlanta, Jamie at Modern Holistic knows how to get your skin glowing again with her unique skin brightening holistic approach to facials using all natural ingredients and techniques that helps you leave your day at the door, enjoying 90 minutes of bliss. One visit and your skin will feel brand new. My favorite is the Brightening Facial and the Lift and Flow. @modernholisticskin
5. BRASSTOWN BALD
The highest point in Georgia, and part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brasstown Bald is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.I recommend camping out overnight and hiking one of three trailheads up to the summit right before sunrise. There you will find anobservation deck with the most spectacular 360° views and if you’re lucky enough to catch the sunrise the experience is purely divine.You are above the clouds like heaven on earth. It’s a great place to both feel grounded, meditate and practice your mindfulness.
6. THE HIGH MUSEUM
Whenever I need a little bit of artistic inspiration, The High Museum is the place to visit. Located downtown Atlanta, The High Museum was founded in 1905 and in 1983, the modern contemporary building we are familiar with today opened. The museum features various artist exhibits such as Warhol, Dali, the Obama paintings and more. Plus every Friday night The High Museum is host to various musical events where you celebrate with a cocktail or two dancing your way through the exhibits enjoying the live bands or featured DJs.
7. PONCE AVENUE CORRIDOR
Ponce Avenue Corridor represents all that is Atlanta, and before electricity, Ponce use to be a horsecar line. Starting at the Fox Theater in Midtown Atlanta and winding its way through some of the well-know neighborhoods along the way, like Virginia Highlands, where you can find great eateries like Murphy’s or local bookstore Virginia Highlands Books, to Little Five Points, a quirky, artsy, hippy hood and ending in Decatur that’s home to Fernbank Museum of Natural History and little India with all its restaurants and Indian shops.
8. PHOENIX AND DRAGON
An Atlanta metaphysical staple for the last 30 years Phoenix and Dragon is your spiritual shop for crystals, personal-growth, candles, energy cleansing tools and much more. When I need to refresh my supply of crystals gemstones, jewelry and sage, Phoenix and Dragon is where it’s at! They also host lectures and meditations throughout the month, every month! @phoenixdragon
9. REFUGE COFFEE COMPANY
Originally started with one coffee truck in an outskirt neighborhood of Atlanta called Clarkston known for its diverse population, as well as being an area for newly settled refugees, Refuge Coffee Company centered around the concept of “Welcome.” The business also doubles as a job training hub for newly settled refugees, focusing on language development, mentoring and helping refugees with their goals.What started with one food truck has now expanded into three brick and mortar locations. @refugecoffeeco