Julio Rodriguez, a seasoned hairstylist from Guelph, has clinched first place in two coveted categories at the esteemed 2024 International Beauty Industry Awards.
Rodriguez, associated with Valentini Hair Design, was taken aback when he emerged victorious in not one but two categories: the best multi-tonal color and best hair art sections of the 2024 IBI Awards. This event witnessed participants from 65 nations vying across over 100 categories encompassing hair and makeup design.
“Despite years of competition experience, this is the first time I’ve walked away with a trophy,” expressed Rodriguez, who boasts over three decades of industry involvement, including 12 years of competitive engagement.
His triumph in the multi-tonal category resonated deeply as he had been meticulously crafting a multi-tonal collection, featuring abstract color-blocking, throughout the year. His winning creation, dubbed “Peach Dream,” stood out as a personal favorite.
In addition to this accolade, his other winning entry, titled “The Prioress,” held profound significance. “This piece carries a backstory close to my heart. Growing up Catholic, I aimed to infuse controversy with beauty. It’s more than just hair art; it’s deeply personal,” shared Rodriguez.
Crafting “The Prioress” entailed weeks of meticulous effort, involving the incorporation of multiple hair layers and spray adhesive to sculpt and structure the piece.
Adding to the celebration, Rodriguez’s partner, Derrick Rutherford, emerged as a finalist in the best high fashion category and secured a semi-finalist position in the best wig category.
Entrants submit photographic representations of their creations for blind assessment by an independent judging panel. Winners are bestowed with hand-crafted and personalized IBI Award statuettes, fashioned by artisans behind prestigious accolades like the Golden Globes and Emmys, while finalists receive certificates of recognition.
“This competition serves as a significant platform for hair and makeup artists, pushing the boundaries of creativity. It holds immense value within our industry, spotlighting a select few who compete on a global stage,” emphasized Rodriguez.
