Nominated for an Emmy Award in 2012, Brian Kinney has been a professional makeup artist working in film, television, theater, and print for more than ten years. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Brian earned his BA in Liberal Arts from The University of Iowa, studying film, media, and English Literature. It was here his lifelong hobby of creating makeups for amusement segued into a full blown dream career. Shortly after graduation he enrolled in the Delamar Academy of Makeup in London, England, graduating with honors from the Professional Makeup Design Course. Within days of graduation, his break came on the set of the HBO/BBC mini-series "Band of Brothers", where he began work for the prosthetics and special FX makeup department.

After several years working in Europe he relocated to Los Angeles, where he continues to work in film and television as a member of IATSE Local 706. Whether in an FX lab, in the makeup trailer, on a soundstage, or on a location set, Brian is truly in his element. His break in L.A. came when he began work on CSI:NY as a founding member of the Special FX Makeup department, a full time position he held for the first three seasons. Brian has recently completed several features as Makeup Department Head, including Beneath the Dark and Julia X 3D. His work can also be seen in recent television episodes of CSI:NY, Law & Order: L.A., True Blood, Community, Rizzoli & Isles, Childrens Hospital, Tim & Eric Awesome Show, Sniper: Deadliest Missions, and 1000 Ways To Die. When not on set, he can be found teaching makeup and special effects in Los Angeles and London.