Whenever I'm home, I haven't got any makeup on. But even in the studio, before I do vocals, I put makeup on.

In this quote, Robert Smith discusses his approach to appearance in different contexts, particularly in relation to his work as a musician. He contrasts his home life, where he doesn't feel the need to wear makeup, with his professional life in the studio, where he chooses to wear makeup before recording vocals. Smith’s statement reveals how he separates his personal and professional selves, using makeup as a tool to get into the right mindset for performing and recording, even if it’s not a part of his everyday routine.

Smith’s mention of wearing makeup before recording vocals also highlights the importance of rituals and personal habits in the creative process. For him, makeup becomes a symbolic part of getting into character or setting the right emotional tone for his performance. It’s not just about appearance but about creating a distinct mental space that allows him to perform at his best. This ritual serves as a way to prepare mentally and emotionally for the work ahead.

The origin of this quote comes from Smith’s career as the frontman of the Cure, where his unique sense of style, including his distinctive makeup, became a hallmark of his public persona. Smith is known for his gothic and eccentric appearance, which has been an important part of his identity in both his personal and professional life. His choice to wear makeup in the studio, even if it’s not something he does at home, reflects how his artistic identity and his public image are intertwined.

Ultimately, Smith’s quote emphasizes the role of self-expression and ritual in the creative process. By wearing makeup before recording, he engages in a personal practice that helps him transition into a professional and creative mode. The quote highlights how small acts of preparation can help artists and creators mentally prepare for their work, reinforcing the idea that rituals, no matter how seemingly superficial, can have a deeper significance in achieving creative flow.