Portrait of the artist

Stephen O’Driscoll is artistic director at Marbles Castletroy, which is part of the Hugh Campbell Hair Group in Limerick. With over 20 years' experience in the hairdressing industry, he has won numerous awards, including the Best of the Best Hairdresser of the Year 2017/18

What is your earliest memory?

I remember being fascinated by the photographs from my parents’ wedding in New York in the Seventies. My mother and her bridesmaid had beautifully coiffed beehives – they seemed so alien, but captivating, to me.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

I love art and fashion, especially fashion photography. My biggest inspiration often changes; I saw the retrospective Thierry Mugler: Couturissme in Paris last October and that definitely left its mark on my mind.

What was your first job?

It was with my father’s company. They installed suspended ceilings, like the kind you see in supermarkets. In hindsight, it gave me the motivation that guided me to the hair industry.

Ideal holiday?

Paris. When I was there in October I celebrated my 40th birthday. I adore it because it has everything – shopping, culture, nightlife. I always make a trip to Boulevard de Strasbourg to stock up on wigs and wefts for shoots.

Favourite food?

I love spicy food. Give me anything Southeast Asian or Mexican and I’m happy out.

Favourite drink?

I drink tea on a daily basis – Barry’s of course. I like coffee too, and I’m partial to the odd espresso martini.

How do you relax?

We have two pugs called Pugsley and Loki, and there’s nothing better than bringing the dogs for a walk, followed by a good film and a bottle of Cava.

Last great film you watched?

Dune. I read all the books years ago, so I was happy when it exceeded my expectations. I often watch old movies again for photographic inspiration. Blade Runner is my all-time favourite.

‘Slowing down to appreciate the small things is very important, because in the end they are the big things’

Dream dinner party guests?

Alexander McQueen, Marilyn Monroe, River Phoenix, Russell Brand and Ru Paul.

Do you cook and, if so, do you have a signature recipe?

I do cook –I find it relaxing. At the moment I’m using my Ninja Foodi Cooker a lot. It’s great for pressure-cooking braised beef, which is pure comfort food.

Best piece of advice you have received?

Identify your weaknesses in your training and fill in the gaps. Those who are the best at any discipline have a solid understanding of technique .

Best advice you’ve ever given?

Focus on yourself. As Oscar Wilde pointed out, everyone else is taken. I frequently tell this to myself and others. Life is far too short to be wasting time thinking about things that are completely outside of your control.

Any lessons from the pandemic?

If I learned anything, it’s that the majority of us are on autopilot in our everyday routines. Slowing down to appreciate the small things is very important, because in the end they are the big things.

Favourite thing about yourself?

I like that I'm not afraid to learn new things. A while back, I went to college part-time to study photography, which is a skill I now use to produce images for the Hugh Campbell Hair Group. I love seeing my work in print.

What is the one hair product you can’t live without?

American Crew Fiber Cream. I have wild hair and it needs taming.

What, if anything, would you now tell your 16-year-old self?

I am definitely my own biggest critic, so I think I would say don’t be so hard on yourself, take it easy and enjoy the journey.

How would you like to be remembered?

I’d like to be remembered for my passion for what I do. Hopefully I will leave behind some good photographs to inspire the next generation of hairdressers.