Shu Uemura Dead at 79

From Women's Wear Daily:

Shu Uemura, the celebrated Japanese makeup artist and founder of the Shu Uemura cosmetics brand, died of pneumonia Dec. 29. He was 79. A private funeral was held in Tokyo Friday and a memorial service is planned there for Jan. 31.

Uemura was a pioneering figure in modern makeup artistry, favoring an artistic approach to beauty. He promoted Japanese traditions and a brand philosophy that focused on healthy skin as the foundation for beautiful makeup.