Alexander Wernersson, make-up and wig designer

Alexander Wernersson had no experience of cultural contexts and had barely read a book. When, at the age of 18, he went to his first theatre performance at the Dramaten, it proved to be a life-changing moment: he wanted to become a make-up artist.

A portrait photo of Alexander Wernersson, a graduate in mask and wig design. — Photo: Nathalie Pujol

Why were we chosen?

– After that first theatre experience, I was completely smitten. I wanted to be part of that world. With a background in hairdressing and a keen interest in hair and craftsmanship, I was still unsure whether I had what it took to apply to SKH. Once I’d been accepted onto the make-up and wig design education, it felt absolutely right.

How did you find your time at university?

– It was an intense and formative period. The education gave me a strong artistic foundation, as well as a language and an understanding of how masks and wigs function as a key part of a larger theatrical whole. I also began to build the artistic collaborations that I’m still working on today.

What did you do straight after obtaining your degree, and what are you doing now?

– I started working whilst I was still undergoing education and went straight into the profession after obtaining my degree. Since then, I’ve worked at Dramaten and Unga Klara. In the spring of 2026, I created the make-up design for the musical *Torka aldrig tårar utan handskar* at Göta Lejon in Stockholm, and from this autumn I’ll be a permanent employee at Kulturhuset Stadsteatern.