Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Jonathan De La Cruz has transformed his childhood passion for horror and creativity into a thriving career as a professional special
effects makeup artist. Living and working in his hometown, Jonathan has become known for bringing monsters, creatures, and cinematic horror to life with his exceptional makeup artistry. He has worked at Six Flags Fiesta Texas for Fright Fest, one of his dream jobs, and currently serves as the lead artist for the upcoming haunted attraction House of Insanity in Selma, Texas. His work combines technical skill, creativity, and a love for storytelling that captivates audiences.
Jonathan’s journey into the world of special effects makeup (SFX) began with inspiration from the television competition show Face Off, which sparked his interest in creating realistic creatures and cinematic effects. His path to success required years of practice, experimenting with makeup techniques, countless failed attempts, and sharing his work on social media. He also attended numerous networking events, where he met filmmakers, writers, and industry professionals, which helped him break into the film and theme park industries. Despite challenges, including standing out in a competitive field and working with limited supplies at a young age, Jonathan’s perseverance and resourcefulness allowed him to develop a unique style and signature touch in his SFX makeup artistry.
Throughout his career, Jonathan has achieved notable milestones, such as working at Fright Fest at the age of 17 and contributing to his first film project last year, which he describes as a defining “I made it” moment. He is most proud of being able to share his love for horror, craft unforgettable creatures, and achieve a lifelong goal of becoming a special effects artist for films and theme parks. Jonathan’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists: anyone can achieve their dreams with dedication and resilience. His personal motto, “Dream big. Start small. Act now,” reflects his philosophy of pursuing passions wholeheartedly and embracing life’s opportunities.
Jonathan is open to collaborations, freelance projects, and film opportunities. He can be contacted via email at makeup.by.jdlc@gmail.com or through social media on Instagram @thejonathandofficial and TikTok @thejonathandofficial. A surprising fact about Jonathan is that he navigates his career while managing Autism, which adds another layer of perseverance to his achievements. His journey proves that passion, creativity, and determination can transform dreams into reality, one terrifyingly detailed creation at a time.
